In this episode we’re joined by Charles Tuba to discuss the book Ruairí Ó Brádaigh: The Life and Politics of an Irish Revolutionary, by Robert White (Indiana University Press, 2006). The discussion looks at Ó Brádaigh’s strand of Republicanism, and in particular the policies of abstentionism and the Éire Nua policy outlining a federal Irish state.
This is one of a series of episodes centred on particular books, to discuss key issues in the history of the Irish Left and Republicanism. We’ve spoken to Charles previously in episode 25 when we discussed Official Irish Republicanism, by Seán Swan, and also heard about Charles’ own political background and interest in Irish Republican history, including visiting Ireland and finding himself inadvertently on a Republican Sinn Féin march.
The discussion mentions the Éire Nua policy which you’ll find in the archive:
There are further editions, including from Republican Sinn Féin, listed under the Éire Nua subject heading.
Listeners may also be interested in the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis ‘86 Clár agus Rúin:
Update note: The discussion looks at the issue of abstensionism at national level while participating in local government. Thanks to listener Gearóid Clár for noting that the position of Ó Brádaigh, outlined in White’s book, was that local government does not claim sovereignty over the area administered, whereas the Dáil does.
The Irish Left Archive Podcast looks at Left politics in Ireland, talking to activists, writers, historians, politicians and others involved in Left organisations and movements about their experiences of participating in Left parties and campaigns. The podcast is hosted by Ciarán Swan and Aonghus Storey.
View this episode on our website: #38: Ruairí Ó Brádaigh: The Life and Politics of an Irish Revolutionary, with Charles Tuba.