Republican Unity in Ardoyne

last Sunday several hundred Republicans gathered in Ardoyne to remember the sacrifice made by four members of Na Fianna Éireann, Davy McAuley, Josh Campbell, Josie McComiskey and Bernard Fox, who gave their lives for Ireland in 1972.

The commemoration started off at the Garden of Remembrance in Ardoyne and was lead by a Colour Party provided by members of the RNU, 2 flute bands were also in attendance, the CarrickHill RFB from Belfast and the Vol. Dan Darragh RFB from Ballycastle. As expected the British Militia were there in armoured landrovers and they hovered overhead in a helicopter, the sound of the bands drowned out the miserable drone of the chopper. The rain lashed down but the Republicans marched proudly and defiantly with their heads held high. The parade then reached it's destination and everyone stood to attention as the Vol. Dan Darragh RFB played the National Anthem. Ardoyne Republican Mairtin Óg Meehan chaired the proceedings and a magnificent plaque was unveiled, by former P.O.W, Henry McErlean, to the four lads. The main speech was delivered by ex-Fianna Activist, Davy Glennon. In his speech Davy pointed out that "the four Fianna boys' did not die for Partition and a Unionist Veto on Irish sovereignty to continue, in fact, they joined Na Fianna Eireann to end them'!"

One thing that stuck out was that this was a great example of Republican Unity. Republicans from various groups and backgrounds stood shoulder to shoulder in solidarity, and paid their respects to the four young Fians who were killed in action. In the crowd i saw former POWs, former IRA Volunteers, lifelong Republican Activists, people who have dedicated their entire lives for the cause and continue to dedicate their lives and fight for Irish Freedom.

Our opponents and former comrades have in the past used the term "Micro-Groups" to try and belittle Anti-Treaty Republicans, in fact Davy also mentioned the smears and villification being used against the organisers of this tribute. I am of the opinion that Constitutional Nationalists will now be eating their words. In fact maybe they should look a bit closer to home. At a recent PSF commemoration in the Derrybeg area of Newry no more than 100 people attended, there were roughly 10 residents in the PSF parade in an area with 1500 residents. Though i won't dwell on numbers nor will i dwell on what Constitutional Nationalists do as it is irrelevant to Republicans, they must however realise that Republicans are not their enemy. They also say that we should put it to the people, i can positively say that will happen and we look forward to it.

Several hundred Republicans marching with 2 flute bands and a full colour party is definitely not a "Micro-Group". I have no doubt that other areas will in future be organising similar commemorations.