The 105th Árd Fheis of
Sinn Féin Dublin Ireland Nov 14th-15th
2009
Members of Cumann Na Saoirse Náisiúnta attended the 105th
Árd Fheis of Sinn Féin, held in Dublin on November 14 and 15,
2009. It was an historic occasion as veteran leader Ruairí O
Brádaigh was stepping down from the post of president of the
organization he joined in 1949. Thankfully, Ruairí will
continue to defend the legitimate Irish Republic proclaimed in
1916 in his new post as a member of the Árd Chomaírle (National
Executive.)
On Sat 14th, Mr. Ó
Brádaigh spoke from the podium in recognition of the ongoing
American contribution to the cause of Irish freedom and
especially Radio Free Eireann's commitment to presenting the
Irish Republican position to the free world.
John Mc Donagh, co-host of Radio
Free Éireann (WBAI 99.5 FM) introduced Ruairí O Brádaigh at the
Árd Fheis to Brian Mór Ó Baoighill who was anchoring the show at
the WBAI studio in New York. Brian conducted a striking live
interview over the New York airwaves. This project was also
video taped in its entirety.
On Sunday the 15th prior
to his farewell Presidential Address by, Ruairí O Brádaigh, (see video no 1) John presented
him with a tribute painting on behalf of Cumann Na Saoirse
Náisiúnta and its supporters in recognition of his life long
outstanding service in defense of an Irish Republic. John
explained that the painting, by renowned Fenian American Artist,
Brian Mor Ó Baoighill echoed Robert Emmett’s last possession;
the leaded glass amulet, engraved with the image of the ancient
Celtic symbol; (see video no
2)the oak lashed and
bent by the unrelenting winds of oppression yet, still standing
and surviving. The amulet and painting’s shared title:
Alas, My Country perfectly
summed up Mr. O’Bradaighs life long dedication to the ancient
goal of Irish Freedom.
John concluded by paying a special
tribute to Patsy Ó Brádaigh who resolutely worked side by side
with her illustrious husband Ruairí and steered their family
most successfully through very difficult times. Patsy was the
2007 recipient of Cumann Na Saoirse's Pearl Flannery Memorial
Award.
