Sean Moylan commemorated as ‘Dáil 100’ comes to Kiskeam

THERE was a double celebration in Kiskeam last Sunday when a large gathering attending the 62nd Seán Moylan Commemoration also had the opportunity to visit the Dáil 100 Exhibition, which was set up in the local community centre.

Billy Kelleher MEP, who delivered the oration, said that Seán Moylan lived a life in service of the people of North Cork and Ireland. “35 years of hard work, often at risk to his own, and his family’s well being, is what he gave to Ireland; it is only right and proper that we come here year after year to remember,” he said.

Mr. Kelleher noted that the Ireland of Seán Moylan is dramatically different to the Ireland of today. “Ireland has transformed itself to meet the challenges of the modern era, and it is the responsibility of political leaders to lead, and to respond to, these changes” he said.

Speaking about the Good Friday Agreement, he said that it provides a framework that was agreed for the shared development of this island and has saved many lives. “Even though peace can never be taken for granted, this agreement has stood the test of time. Now, more than ever, we need the institutions provided for in the Good Friday Agreement to be up and running. Irish unity remains a legitimate aspiration for this party,” he said.

Mr. Kelleher noted that the absence of an executive and an Assembly in Northern Ireland has left an enormous political vacuum. “Both Sinn Féin and the DUP have to accept responsibility for failing to make the necessary compromises to give the North a devolved government,” he said.

“Brexit is not resolved and it is vital that the voice of Northern Nationalism is heard in Westminster again” he added.

Concluding, Mr. Kelleher stated that there can be no escaping the fact that we are still a nation partitioned and said that the challenge for those of us who follow in the footsteps of Seán Moylan is how we take the next steps towards a united Ireland.

Many people attending the Commemoration took the opportunity to view the collection of photographs and memorabilia charting 100 years of parliament and politics in Ireland. The collection forms a part of the centenary celebrations under the banner of Dáil 100.

MEP Billy Kelleher pictured with the Colour Party members at the Seán Moylan Commemoration.

Councillor Ian Doyle, Michael Moynihan TD, Billy Kelleher MEP, Kevin O’ Keeffe TD, Aindrias Moynihan TD, Senator Mark Daly and Councillor Gearóid Murphy pictured at Seán Moylan’s graveside during the Commemoration Ceremony.

Sheila O’Leary, Kiskeam, with her grand children Daniel, Sinead and Seán at the Dáil 100 Exhibition in Kiskeam Community Centre.

The Breen and Cunningham families visited the Dáil 100 Exhibition in Kiskeam Community Centre.