Ó Brádaigh refused Visa for launch of biography in New York

by Fred Johnston Sun Oct 22, 2006 19:10

I may not agree with O'Bradaigh's politics, but I must defend his right to write and to publish. The US is a Stalinist-style state (why anyone might wish to go there, I have no idea). In some parts of the city of Washington it is forbidden, under pain of arrest, to discuss publicly political issues or, precisely, 'anti-war' issues. I have heard that 'students' are place into university lectures to note down whether a lecturer is making 'anti-war' (in other words, Anti-American) statements or remarks; he could face dismissal. It is up to Irish writers immediately and vigorously to make known their outrage at the refusal of a visa to O Bradaigh in this instance. I am sure Bertie Ahern, champion of democracy and of the rights of the ordinary Irishman, is on his way as I write to deliver his protest to the American ambassador.

"Ah, Jaysus, lads! Yer puttin' me in a terrible spot wid me Party's inherdent Republicanism. Harney's gone - we've dun enuff in the war against terrordism. He only wants to sell his oul' buke. Indymeeja'll have me goolies for this!"

by me Sat Oct 21, 2006 19:11

O Bradaigh is a champion of the most sensible peace plan yet conceived, Eire Nua. I'm not certain how attending the launch of his biography is regarded as "engaging in terrorist related activity", but heaven knows the current US administration isn't exactly careful when applying such a label or charge.
Denial of visas to proponents of this peace plan is a denial of the freedom of speech and political expression. America has become precisely what its founding ideology abhored and warned against.
No alternative to the Stormont deal will be allowed to see any light of day. Sadly, it's the one road until people realise that that road is a dead end.

by nikab Sat Oct 21, 2006 17:57

or even vaguely political? ...... or was it the cardboard in his shoes?