Public meeting on neutrality in Galway
The Religious Society of Friends, better known as Quakers, will host a public meeting on Irish Neutrality, The Triple Lock and the Quaker Peace Testimony on May 7 in the Mechanic Institute, Middle Street, Galway, starting at 8pm.
Guest speakers are former Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv; Dr. John Lannon, CEO of Doras and Shannon Watch member, and Dr. Karen Devine, from DCU’s School of Law and Government.
Quakers are one of the few Christian denominations that have totally rejected the use of violence for political means since its origins in the 17th century.
They believe that Ireland is now at a crossroads with the Government, as well as other governments in Europe and west Asia, are being pressured to support conflicts that are blatant wars of choice.
“We are threatened with economic repercussion if we fail to make Shannon available, while 84% of the population consistently advocates for a neutrality that rejects war, that wants no part in the genocide taking place in Gaza, the senseless bloodshed in Ukraine, or the war of aggression against Iran,” explained a spokesperson.
“Friends believe Ireland has a choice to either play a positive role in the world as peace makers or acquiesce in the drift towards belligerency by obediently following the drums of war… The choice is ours,” they added.
The event is free; donations will be accepted in support of Irish Quaker projects in Gaza and Lebanon.