Fermanagh Sean Macdiarmada Society pays a strong tribute to Jim Murphy at Commemoration
THE Sean Macdiarmada Society in Fermanagh marked the 50th anniversary of Jim Murphy’s death as part of their Easter Commemorations. A large crowd was in attendance at the Commemoration held in Derrylin in the St. Ninnidh’s Church graveyard.
The Commemoration was chaired by Pearse Mcgovern; Peadar Neary read the Roll of Honour; Paul Mcgoldrick read the Proclamation of the Republic; and the main address was delivered by Derek Warfield of the Young Wolfe Tones.
The address focused on the anniversary of Mr. Murphy’s death as part of the Commemorations, and touched on several other topics, including the civil rights movement.
A spokesperson for the event said: “Derek [Warfield] alluded to the fact that Jim Murphy was a civil rights activist, and now we have a greater housing crisis than before, as well as a failing health service.”
Remembering Mr. Murphy in his address, Mr. Warfield recalled meeting him at various functions and gave some background into his life.
“Jim Murphy was a 42-year-old man who was engaged to be married, and operated a garage, called the Hilltop Garage, less than two miles from his grave here in Derrylin.
“His friends and family would say that Jim was the epitome of gentleness, kindness and consideration for others, particularly the downtrodden.
“Jim Murphy was a man who was to the forefront of every good cause, and was always ready to shoulder the heaviest burden.
“He was an untiring worker, not only in his own area but far beyond its confines.
“Jim Murphy was a well-known and respected figure all over Fermanagh for his idealism and devotion to those in need and those in trouble.”
Mr. Warfield further continued: “We all know that to challenge English authority wrongdoing in the six counties has a cost, and it had a big cost for Jim Murphy – he was murdered.
“Jim Murphy would first come to the attention of the British state forces in the 1950s. He was involved in the 1958-62 Border campaign, and was interned in Crumlin Road for a period during this time.
“Jim was a proud Irish Republican from a young age, throughout his life, and always led from the front.
“When conflict and sectarian violence erupted in the late 1960s, Jim naturally joined in the Civil Rights movement here in County Fermanagh,” added Mr. Warfield.
In addition, a message of solidarity to the people of Palestine was also heard. blueprint for control in Ireland with the active participation of former Republicans.”
He further continued: “Sinn Féin Poblachtach
[Republican] calls for the complete withdrawal of the British presence from Ireland and for the people of Ireland, acting as a unit, to be allowed to decide the future of the country.
“Our culture and civilisation, including the Irish language – the oldest vernacular language in Europe, which we inherit from those who went before us – must be accessible to all people.”
‘Far Right elements’
Addressing issues present within society, Mr. Duffy said: “Republicans must oppose the attempts by Far Right elements to blame the housing and health problems in the 26-county State on refugees and asylum seekers.
“Responsibility lies solely on the Free State Administration, not on people fleeing from war and famine throughout the world.”
His oration also touched on the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Mr. Duffy told those gathered: “On the international front, we stand with the Palestinian people who are being subjected to genocide and famine by the Zionist state of Israel.”
Wreaths were laid by Republican Sinn Féin leadership.
The Commemoration was chaired by Hugh Mcgovern. The Commemoration closed with the singing of Amhrán na bhfiann.