Thousands of republicans gathered across Donegal at the weekend to commemorate the 1916 rising and all those who have given their lives for Irish freedom.
Commenting on the events Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, who was the main speaker in Buncrana and at the main event in Drumboe, said Sinn Fein were detemined to complete the task of the men of 1916.
In total there were 12 gatherings at various locations across the county to honour Ireland’s patriot dead.
“This year marks the 95th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising. To mark this anniversary and commemorate all Republicans who have died for Ireland, the Tír Chonaill Commemoration Committee organised 12 gatherings throughout Donegal over the weekend.
“We republicans gather every year not simply as a celebration of political heritage or as an exercise in historical remembrance.
“We do so because we are determined to complete the task of the men and women of 1916 and finally to establish on this island an Irish Republic encompassing all 32 Counties.
“At each of the commemorations, Republicans reflect on the Proclamation of 1916, an historic document, one of the most progressive ever written.
“The Proclamation spells out the demand for social and economic justice and democracy, of cherishing all of the children of the nation equally.
“The reunification of Ireland and the sovereignty of the people of Ireland are the core values of Irish Republicans,” he said.
Donegal’s Mayor Cora Harvey chaired the event in Drumboe.
Speaking afterwards Mayor Harvey said the goal of uniting Ireland is still ongoing – 95 years after the events at the GPO.
“Easter is a time for remembering friends and comrades who have given their lives and freedom in pursuit of our Republican ideals and goals.
“It is time for reflecting on those ideals. It is also a time of renewal, when we as Irish Republicans rededicate ourselves to the legitimate and achievable goals of independence and unity for the people of this island.”
“Although the Irish Republic proclaimed at the GPO in Dublin 95 years ago has not yet been achieved, the process of attaining it is still ongoing. We still have a lot of work to do.
“By motivating people around Easter to come out and commemorate our Patriot dead and the sacrifices that they have made, we hope to inspire them to take a more active role in the struggle.
“I want to call on all those who are committed to Irish reunification, regardless of party political affiliation, to work together for that worthy and achievable goal,” she said.
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