1916 and all that

So our wee republic  is 100 years old soon. I wonder how well we’ve done . Its a good time to review the aspirations and ideas that were so bravely fought for in 1916 by many brave men and women. Those were people who cherished what it was to be Irish. They wanted to create a republic that was socially just and welcoming, a place where we cared for each other and helped each other. A land that was proud of its rich heritage , and finally a place where we could all prosper together in a fair and just society. These men and women entrusted their ideals to our elected representatives  in the Dáil, Seanad and Councils of Ireland. Down through the years many other good men and women carried on with the work in their daily lives but  how have we progressed as a nation?

Emigration has increased exponentially ,we have lost our young and talented youth

People are dying on the streets

Most of our workers are working for barely a living wage.

Many have no homes to call their own

Homeless in Dublin

Our health service is broken

Our education system is underfunded

Our national integrity and pride has been  destroyed by countless scandals

Our young generation are turning to crime, drugs and alcohol.

Where are we and our elected representatives in all of this ?

The statistics are showing that a uplift is ongoing in our economy. The large co-operations are returning record profits. The wealthiest  10% in the country control 30% of all the wealth. Government are legislating to increase the wealth of the wealthy.

Maybe its time to call a halt.

It would appear that we have allowed ourselves to put….

prosperity in front of compassion

work in front of family

profit before people

its not to late to change but we must start asking the right questions and demanding the correct action. More importantly we must make a stand for what we believe in.

Lets celebrate 1916 for all the right reasons and get back our identity and dignity.