Madam, – I was dismayed by the lack of attention given by The Irish Timesto one the most important anniversaries in modern Ireland's history. I also would like to note that a number of articles were published last year to commemorate the centenary of the boy scouts, whose founder was definitely racist, imperialist and anti- working class.
On August 16th, 1909 Na Fianna Éireann was launched as an Irish nationalist alternative to the pro-British Baden-Powell Scouts movement. The launch took place in 34 Lower Camden Street, Dublin and was organised by two of Ireland’s leading republicans Bulmer Hobson and Constance Markievicz. From the 100 boys who met that night and formed An Cead Sluagh (first unit) the organisation grew steadily to a point where at its height it mobilised almost 30,000 boys in the struggle for Irish freedom.
The boys played a pivotal role in the 1913 Lockout; Howth and Kilcoole gun landing operations; the 1916 Rising; the Black and Tan War and Civil War. Its leaders and members were crucial in organising and staffing both the Irish Republican Brotherhood and Irish Volunteers.
With all this and more you can understand how I might be dismayed by the complete lack of recognition for such a significant anniversary in your paper. – Yours, etc,