(My apologies – this first went up as being authored by Donal Kennedy. It is in fact by Donal Lavery. Mea culpa… – Jude)
I had a eureka moment recently and decided I would try to write a pocket size document which sets out a republican agenda and principles to be advanced upon – recognising various demographics and historical events/players. I remember reading how the Ulster Covenant was so treasured by Loyalists because it was small enough to carry in your pocket, bag or purse, or hang on the wall, and read each day as a reinforcer of meaning, identity and aspiration. So I aimed, given the centenary, to produce the same. Tell me what you think? I might propose it at an Ard Fheis, to be adopted as an official party document, titled ”The National Decree”.
”Given the triumphs, truces and perils of our history, from days of old martyrdom to the rising present before us at any time; We hold, by heart and by mind, that irrespective of any individuals or collective, be they alien or domestic, which may rule over us, we can collate from our history this set of values; Values which are sealed by the blood of our country-men and women, and motivated by the joys of our children, which we do pertinently attest to uphold no matter the circumstances which befall us; Always and Forever, in Ireland’s name and as a glorious Nation under the stars;
1. That Ireland is but One Nation, with many captivating peoples who enrich the soils and spirits of her Provinces.
2. That the two greatest resources we hold dear be the strength of our Youth and the wisdom of our Old.
3. That as a Republic, we do solemnly seek with the greatest of all paramountcy, the harmonisation of all the men and women, who by their existence and endeavours, make this land a Nation.
4. That the land, traditions and culture of Ireland be coveted by none, but for all, with a democratic and spiritual right to each over all bondage.
5. That lines on the map, drawn by an outlandish and illegitimate administration, bare no recognition or imposition in the hearts and souls of all who recite this faithfully.
6. That the standard of life afforded by right to each citizen, be relative in scale to the highest within the Nation as a whole.
7. That the duty of each Republican be the realisation of these values, with the uttermost allegiance to the well-being and happiness of all on this island – irrespective of class, colour, creed or faith.
I don’t recall writing the above nor of sending it to Jude. I think some joker is taking the water.
Donal Kennedy aka Domhnall O Cinneide 22 June 2016
That’s very nicely written Donal and is full of nice sentiments.
It is very definitely not mine.
The Republican Declaration of 1916 signed by Pearse, Connolly and their comrades, who
bore witness to their sincerity by facing firing squads ,requires no qualification, reservation
or rewriting, by me or by others..
It is an affirmation of my faith and my hope and and an eternal witness of their charity.
An all the smears and sneers of a craven commentariat will not prevail against.
SORRY, SORRY AND SORRY AGAIN ! GABH MO LEATHSCEAL!
I thought that the piece had been attributed to me,
I have the excuse that letters purporting to come
fro me have been sent to some publications
previously.
Donal Kennedy
Nah, Donal – the culpa is all mea…I put it up as Donal Kennedy for the same reason the old horse kept on going round in circles even after it’d been set free – force of habit.