Events and Comments

On Eagles Wing, the story of Ulster-Scots emigration to America in the 18th century, has overcome the major setback it suffered in the United States when financial support was withdrawn at short notice and has had its public launch in the Odyssey Arena in Belfast. The musical has a large cast of musicians and dancers performing to the music of John Anderson. Musical Director Mark Dougherty has in the past worked with the very successful Riverdance show and believes that On Eagles Wing can emulate its achievements. The Show opened on the 20th May to generous acclaim from the local media and is now hopeful that it can regain the momentum that took it to the United States in the first place - only this time with proper support.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Sir/Madam

May I first take this opportunity to commend the Spring edition of The Other View. The articles were well researched and very well written. I was particularly drawn to Michael Atcheson’s article in regards to what Republicanism means to young Protestants. I am aware that the views expressed were not Mr. Atchison’s own. I hope that the article opens the wider debate among young people on what Republicanism, as an ideology, actually aspires to establishing in terms of society. Such debates and discussions will hopefully break down the myths and sectarian fabrication surrounding the Irish Republican ideology. It may also provide a vehicle to unite Catholic, Protestant and Dissenter upon a common ground to move forward.

The article stated, “Republicans are people who want a united Ireland”. This statement is true, if somewhat shallow. As a republican I seek an Irish Republic, not just a United Ireland. If a united Ireland was established tomorrow, as a republican, I would still aspire change. I got the impression that the Republic envisaged in this article by the respondents, is one of Dublin rule, as currently is the case in the 26 Counties. The system in Leinster House has time and time again been revealed as corrupt, with a culture of brown envelopes and political back scratching. I aspire to an Irish Republic based on equality, justice and civil and religious liberties for all the people on this island.

The equation of Republicanism being “a united Ireland without Prods” simply cannot be made. Republicanism is an ideology, an aspiration for a fair and equal system of government, a Republic based on social inclusion and justice, where power is devolved and decisions are made as locally as possible by those who will be affected by the decisions, “Government for the people, by the people”.

The issue of Human Rights was raised in the article. “Republicans always use human rights issues against the Prods, Have we no rights?” My comment on this may be somewhat simple, but Human Rights belong to humanity and not to a particular section or group. All people have inalienable human rights. The fact that young people in North Belfast regard Human Rights issues as belonging to a particular section of society alone gives me cause for concern.

Finally, I would like to substitute the word “Politicians” for the word “Republicans” in the statement that “Republicans are manipulators of people and governments”. All political organisations seek to manipulate groups for their own desired ends. That, in my opinion, is what politics is, but perhaps I just have a cynical view of politics.

Finally, I would like to take the opportunity to thank Michael Atcheson for commenting on such debates going on among young people today. Such debates and discussions are important in today’s society, as they offer a welcome opportunity to express our views and confront our fears about our future, and what it will bring.
Yours sincerely,
D.B.
(Full name and address with Editor).

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