The task of moving the struggle forward in 1998
Republicans can look back to 1997 as a year of exceptional
electoral gains and a year which saw all the parties to the
conflict in the north finally sitting down at the negotiating
table.
Essentially, republicans won the argument that the conflict can
only be resolved by talking. The unionists entered the process
kicking and screaming and have since failed to engage in genuine
dialogue.
It has also been the year that witnessed increased militarisation
and continued and repeated assaults on nationalist communities
throughout the north by the Crown Forces in order to facilitate
sectarian coat trailing exercise by the Orange Order; with
loyalist killer gangs continuing to stalk the night looking for
vulnerable nationalist victims.
In the face of a vibrant and dynamic republican movement,
Unionism remains stale and fearful of change. But while they may
try to block progress, it is patently clear that there can be no
going backwards.
Entering into 1998 republicans should now be recommitting
themselves to consolidating those gains made during 1997 and
organising to remove the continuing vestiges of oppression.
Militarisation and the abuse of nationalist rights will continue
to intensify unless thousands of marching feet send a clear
message to the British that nationalist Ireland is no longer
prepared to put up with second class status.
Recent gains have been built on the strength of a nationalist
community which is growing in confidence. That same confidence
will in the coming year witness further progress. Much is at
stake in the talks at Stormont, but it is through political
activism on the streets that our negotiators are given voice.
Protests must become an unstoppable force for change in Ireland
Let us not be found wanting in what is required.
The centrality of prisoners
THE centrality of the prisons issue in resolving the conflict in
Ireland is emphasised by the fact that each December is
highlighted as Prisoners Month by republicans
There remain 328 republican prisoners incarcarated in prisons
throughout Ireland, England and the United States.
Problems with justice, extradition, provision of health care and
repatriation remain core issues which need to be addressed by the
governments now.
Ultimately if the peace process is to succeed, if there is to be
peace, there can be no political prisoners. In the history of
global conflict resolution, there is no case where peace has been
established while prisoners remain incarcarated.
Saoirse has set itself the task of ensuring that this will be the
last Christmas prisoners spend cut-off from their families and
friends.
Happy Christmas
ALL the staff of An Phoblacht - journalists, drivers, production
and administration (and me - F.) - wish all our readers and our sellers a very
happy Christmas and the very best wishes for 1998.
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