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Irish Examiner
2 days ago
- Politics
- Irish Examiner
Book review: Memoirs of Ireland's wars told from an extraordinary ordinary soldier
It is difficult to understand the lives and motivations of those who were on active duty during the War of Independence and the Civil War. The vast majority of lower-ranked officers and common soldiers chose to remain silent in later life. This was most likely because they wished to forget the horrors and trauma of that 1918 to 1924 era. The first-hand accounts that have been written, generally come from the military leaders or those who subsequently entered public life. As a result, our history is deprived of a fuller picture of those troubled years. In 2021, a memoir of that era was re-discovered after many years in private hands. This memoir was written by Dan Mulvihill and is now the basis for Owen O'Shea's new book One Man's Ireland. O'Shea is no stranger to the War of Independence and Civil War in Kerry. One Man's Ireland is his third book on this theme. One Man's Ireland outlines the experiences of Dan Mulvihill's life in the Flying Columns of the IRA and anti-Treaty forces of Kerry. Mulvihill and his sister Katie did incredible work for the cause of Irish freedom in mid-Kerry. To have been part of flying column may be glorified now, but it was a life that is beyond the comprehension of most people today. Each time Mulvihill left his home at Brackhill, near Castlemaine, Co Kerry, he did not know if he would ever return. And, if he did return, he did not know what he might find. Life in a flying column meant sleeping rough while coping with dirt, lice, dampness, and hunger. Dan Mulvihill did all this in the belief that it would lead to an Independent Ireland. 'One Man's Ireland: Memoirs of Dan Mulvihill, Maverick Republican', by Owen O'Shea, outlines the experiences of Dan Mulvihill's life in the Flying Columns of the IRA and anti-Treaty forces of Kerry. Mulvihill held an unusual post between the truce, July 1921, and the Treaty. His role was to liaise with the British Army to oversee and regulate the truce terms. In ways it was a thankless task, but both Mulvihill and his counterparts managed to keep events from getting out of control. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said of the Civil War conflict in Kerry. Mulvihill took the anti-treaty side. He spent some of the Civil war in prison, and if he had not been moved from Killarney to Dublin, it is likely that he would have been killed by the Free State forces as a reprisal for one of the tit-for-tat killings that went on in Kerry. He was very close to Liam Lynch and was pragmatic enough to know the prospect of victory had vanished once Liam Lynch was killed. Dan Mulvihill never became overtly politically active. He did however, sign nomination papers for candidates in elections. During the Second World War, he was employed by the government to report on the activities of those suspected of having British or German leanings in Kerry. He also became a campaigner for those who tried to claim IRA pensions. Between 1924 and 1958 more than 18,000 people applied for these pensions. Only 8,000 were successful. Dan Mulvihill campaigned for those who had risked their lives by taking in wounded soldiers, running messages, and carrying weapons. The rise of violence in the Northern Ireland in the 1970s only served to evoke feelings of frustration in Dan Mulvihill. Owen O'Shea reckons that it was this frustration that finally led Mulvihill to write his own story. However, he failed to have it published. The title, One Man's Ireland was Dan Mulvihill's idea. One Man's Ireland is a valuable addition to the books on the 1918 to the 1924 period. It is a concise insight into the mind of the 'ordinary soldier'. Not that Dan Mulvihill was ordinary. He proved himself to be a man of extraordinary fortitude. He lived his life for the country he wanted Ireland to be, and his vision of that Ireland remained unchanged until the day he died. Read More Book review: Biography of a biography is an onerous read
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First Post
3 days ago
- Politics
- First Post
Democracy remains a distant dream as Yunus drives Bangladesh deeper into chaos
It is not too late for Bangladesh to reboot its fragile democracy. But if it doesn't act swiftly, the country may well head the way of Pakistan—into deeper chaos and prolonged military rule read more Bangladesh stands at a crossroads as protests against the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government intensify. Image: AP The interim government in Bangladesh, headed by 84-year-old Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, is facing its gravest crisis since assuming power on August 8, 2024. Yunus is besieged on all sides—by civil servants, teachers, political parties, and increasingly, the military. Amidst the current political turmoil, a fundamental question looms—one that has haunted Bangladesh since the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975: Will the promised general elections be held soon, restoring the country's fragile democracy, or is Bangladesh on the verge of yet another prolonged period of military dominance—if not outright martial law? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Let's explore the turbulent history of Bangladesh—its legacy of student protests and frequent coups (successful or not), that explains the events that brought Muhammad Yunus to power, examines the ongoing crisis, and offers a glimpse into the uncertain future unfolding in India's neighborhood. The Defining Feature: Student Protests From the Language Movement (Bhasha Andolan) in 1952, to the War of Independence in 1971, to the recent uprising that led to Sheikh Hasina's resignation on August 5, 2024, violent student protests have repeatedly defined Bangladesh's political landscape. The agitation that forced Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving Prime Minister, to resign and flee to India aboard a Bangladesh Air Force C-1301 military transport began in July 2024. Initially centered around the issue of government job quotas for families of freedom fighters (widely seen as benefiting those with connections to Hasina's party), it quickly escalated into a nationwide, broad-based protest with a single-point demand: her resignation. Hasina and her party, the Awami League, blamed the opposition—namely the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami—for orchestrating the movement. Yunus Comes Centre Stage How did an apolitical figure like Muhammad Yunus come to lead Bangladesh? The answer lies with the powerful 'Student Uprising Central Committee', whose demands left the military with no alternative. Committee spokesperson Nahid Islam stated emphatically: 'Any government other than the one we recommended would not be accepted. We won't betray the bloodshed by the martyrs for our cause. We will create a new democratic Bangladesh through our promise of security of life, social justice, and a new political landscape.' Faced with these demands, the military acquiesced. Yunus, in turn, eagerly assumed the role of interim leader. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Doldrums As of May 2025, Bangladesh stands at a crossroads. The economy is on the brink. Government employees are protesting against a new ordinance that allows dismissals without due process. Teachers are picketing instead of teaching. The political parties, particularly the BNP, are demanding early elections. Meanwhile, the reports suggest a 'cold war' between the military and Yunus. Instability Internally, the Yunus government is rapidly losing control. Externally, the conflict in neighboring Myanmar is spilling over into Bangladesh, exacerbating border instability. The Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar have become targets for recruitment by Burmese armed groups. Cross-border violence and drug smuggling are on the rise, stretching Bangladesh's security apparatus to its limits. Things are as bad as they can get. Promises Made, Promises Unkept When Yunus assumed power with much fanfare nine months ago, he promised sweeping reforms and free, fair elections. Neither has materialised. Instead, he has banned the Awami League, preventing it from participating in future elections. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Whipping Anti-India Sentiments Cornered and increasingly frustrated by his failure to deliver reforms, Yunus resorted to a familiar strategy on May 25: whipping up anti-India sentiment. Through Mahmudur Rahman Manna, president of the Nagorik Oikya party, Yunus pushed the narrative that Bangladesh faces a 'major crisis due to Indian hegemony', aiming to distract from his government's incompetence. On the Street Nine months have passed since the Bangladesh Army stepped in to maintain order following the collapse of Sheikh Hasina's government. Their deployment was necessitated by the breakdown of civil law enforcement, including a nationwide police strike that left stations deserted and public order in chaos. But now, military patience is wearing thin. The General Speaks On May 21, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman publicly urged Yunus to hold national elections by December 2025 so a democratically elected government can take office by January 1, 2026. 'The army is meant for defending the nation, not for policing… We must return to barracks after elections,' he said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He further warned that prolonged deployment for civil duties threatens national defense preparedness. Meanwhile, Yunus, who holds the title 'Chief Adviser,' continues making controversial decisions—including on foreign policy—drawing open criticism from the military. Restive Generals The military's frustration isn't limited to election delays. General Waker strongly opposes several of the interim government's foreign policy moves. Chief among them is a proposed 'humanitarian corridor,' which Waker derided as a 'blood corridor': 'There will be no corridor. The sovereignty of Bangladesh is not negotiable.' He warned that such moves could entangle Bangladesh in proxy conflicts, stressing that only an elected government can make such decisions. Other controversial issues include the potential foreign management of Chattogram Port and the proposed launch of Elon Musk's Starlink service—both flagged as national security risks by the military. Speculation is rife that Yunus may have attempted to remove Waker, prompting the general's defiant stance. His public focus on constitutional processes and national sovereignty reflects deepening discontent within the military. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If tensions escalate, a military takeover is not unthinkable—Bangladesh has a precedent for it. Political Slugfest Despite growing pressure, Yunus has yet to announce even a tentative election date, continuing to insist: 'reforms first, elections later'. This has infuriated not only the military but also political parties. The BNP has issued an ultimatum: unless elections are held by December, it will withdraw support for the interim government. On May 28, the BNP and its affiliates—Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal—held a massive rally demanding early elections. Speaking via video from London, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman said: 'Excuses are already being made regarding the national elections. Even after 10 months, the interim government has not announced an election date.' But the situation is more complex. While the military and BNP push for elections this year, the National Citizen Party (NCP)—formed by former student leaders—is in no rush. They insist that elections must follow sweeping reforms and the prosecution of former Awami League leaders for last year's crackdown on protests. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What Does Yunus Want? The answer depends on who you ask. Some say Yunus wants General Waker removed. Others believe he aims to prolong his unelected rule—or even ascend to the presidency. Some speculate he plans to quit, though his cabinet suggests otherwise. Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud stated that Yunus, the chief advisor, is not stepping down. Yunus himself said last week, 'We are not going anywhere till our job is done.' His press secretary echoed the sentiment on May 25, saying, 'We are in a war-like situation.' Though, Yunus has himself announced that the elections will be held sometime between December 2025 to June 2026. Conclusion: A Tipping Point As Bangladesh teeters on the edge of anarchy, India must remain watchful. It is not too late for Bangladesh to reboot its fragile democracy. But if it doesn't act swiftly, the country may well head the way of Pakistan—into deeper chaos and prolonged military rule. The author is a multi-disciplinary thought leader with Action Bias and an India based impact consultant. He is a keen watcher of changing national and international scenarios. He works as President Advisory Services of Consulting Company BARSYL. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost's views. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD
Irish Independent
5 days ago
- Politics
- Irish Independent
‘A genuine slip-up' – TD Cathal Crowe apologises after claiming British Army never bombed or shot civilians in Ireland
Cathal Crowe, from Clare, shocked TDs when he made the remark – adding immediately afterwards that he was something of a historian – during a discussion of the Israeli army's activities in Gaza. Today, Mr Crowe apologised to 'the victims of British terror and atrocities' in the Dáil. He said he wanted to correct the record over the remarks. 'My apology is also to those of you who care about Irish history and the accuracy with which it should be conveyed,' he said in a personal statement. 'I wanted to make the point that brutal, bad, and all as the British armed forces have been on this island for a very long time, they never resorted to sending over the Royal Air Force, tanks and missiles to pummel Irish cities. 'Regrettably, speaking largely off the cuff, I clumsily and wrongly stated that 'they never retaliated by bombing and shooting the civilian population of Ireland'. Let me be very clear. It was not my intention to say this, and I didn't realise how woeful all of that was until late last night when I received the transcript of what I had actually said. 'It was a genuine slip-up on my part, but it was wrong – and I wish to today unequivocally and profusely apologise.' The British Army 'has been involved in many heinous attacks on Irish people historically', he said. His own family 'also suffered at the hands in the past of the British military', he added, referring to atrocities in Clare during the War of Independence. Mr Crowe said: 'My apology is to the victims of British terror and atrocities. My apology is also to those of you who care about Irish history and the accuracy with which it should be conveyed.' He is a former history teacher, and previously called for a boycott to oppose former justice minister Charlie Flanagan's efforts to commemorate the Royal Irish Constabulary. The event caused an outcry and was soon scrapped.
Irish Independent
5 days ago
- Politics
- Irish Independent
‘A genuine slip-up' – Cathal Crowe apologises after claiming the British Army never bombed or shot civilians in Ireland
Cathal Crowe, from Clare, shocked Deputies when he made the remark – adding immediately afterwards that he was something of a historian – during a discussion of the Israeli army's activities in Gaza. Today, Mr Crowne apologised to 'the victims of British terror and atrocities' in the Dáil. He said he wanted to correct the record over the remarks. "My apology is also to those of you who care about Irish history and the accuracy with which it should be conveyed,' he said in a personal statement. 'I wanted to make the point that brutal, bad, and all as the British armed forces have been on this island for a very long time, they never resorted to sending over the Royal Air Force, tanks and missiles to pummel Irish cities. 'Regrettably, speaking largely off the cuff I clumsily and wrongly stated that 'they never retaliated by bombing and shooting the civilian population of Ireland'. 'Let me be very clear. It was not my intention to say this, and I didn't realise how woeful all of that was until late last night when I received the transcript of what I had actually said. 'It was a genuine slip-up on my part, but it was wrong – and I wish to today unequivocally and profusely apologise." The British army 'has been involved in many heinous attacks on Irish people historically', he said. His own family 'also suffered at the hands in the past of the British military', he added, referring to atrocities in Clare during the War of Independence. Mr Crowe said: 'My apology is to the victims of British terror and atrocities. My apology is also to those of you who care about Irish history and the accuracy with which it should be conveyed.' He is a former history teacher, and previously called for a boycott to oppose former Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan's efforts to commemorate the Royal Irish Constabulary. The event caused and outcry and was soon scrapped.
Daily Mirror
19-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful EU city with £1.20 pints and free things to see just 2.5 hours from UK
Travellers can't stop raving about this cheap and cheerful city less than three hours from the UK, that is home to a slew of free attractions (and, more importantly, £1.20 pints) Escape the daily grind and explore this stunning EU city that won't break the bank. Renowned for its majestic architecture, ubiquitous history, and geothermal spas - Hungary has long shimmered under the tourist spotlight. In fact, a record-breaking six million holidaymakers flocked to the country's capital, Budapest, last year - a whopping 24 per cent increase compared to the year before. It's a great base for those wanting to inter-rail around Europe on their gap year - and make a perfect city break year-round. Unlike most European capitals, Budapest is an affordable city that won't wreak havoc on your finances. For example, the average pint costs £1.20, while dinner for two (without booze) in a 'moderately-priced' restaurant will set you back around £10. Keeping under budget in Budapest is also easy as many of its main attractions are free. You can hike Gellért Hill - which only takes 30 minutes - and get rewarded with sweeping views of the city, Here, you'll also find Citadella, a mighty fortress built after the 1848–49 War of Independence to defend the city from further insurrection. If you're not wanting to break a sweat, stroll along City Park with a coffee - or take advantage of the shade at Ervin Szabó Central Library. "Housed in a former 19th-century palace, the Ervin Szabó Central Library invites visitors to take a break from the dizzying pace of the Hungarian capital and unwind in regal surroundings," explains Lonely Planet. The guide continues: "Spaces that once functioned as grand dining rooms and living quarters have been converted into a number of truly dazzling public reading rooms. Giant chandeliers dangle above plush armchairs, enticing visitors to spend an afternoon flicking through one of the two million-plus texts that line the library's shelves." History buffs will need to head over to Pest and Óbuda to explore the Roman ruins. "Aquincum is the most complete Roman civilian town in Hungary and contains both a world-class museum and an open-air archeological park," Lonely Planet added. While there is an entrance charge for this attraction, you can get a glimpse of the ruins without paying. On the banks of the Danube River, close to the Hungarian Parliament building, you'll find sixty pairs of old-fashioned shoes made from iron. These are a sobering memorial to the Hungarian Jews who, during 1944-1945, were shot on the banks of the Danube River. Of course, no trip to Budapest is complete without making the most of its 'healing waters'. Often touted as the world's 'Spa Capital', Budapest is home to an array of geothermal pools, which are an integral part of Hungarian culture. Széchenyi Thermal Bath, one of the largest bath complexes in Europe, is by far the most popular - and tickets cost less than £20. If a jam-packed itinerary isn't your kind of style- don't worry. Budapest is a compact city filled with mouth-watering food markets, themed-bars, and beautiful architecture. It's the perfect place to roam around and just see what takes your fancy. You can fly directly to Budapest from most major UK airports, including Leeds, Norwich, Newcastle, Birmingham, London Stansted and Luton. Flights, which take an average of two and a half hours, can be bought for as little as £37 in June. Booze isn't the only cheap thing in Budapest, with a wide range of accommodation suiting different budgets. For example, a weekend's stay (Friday, June 20-22) at the Chill & Stay - a two-bedroom apartment - costs just £135, based on two adults sharing. For those wanting a more luxurious city break, check out the Continental Hotel Budapest, which sits on the former site of Hungaria Bath. You can stay in a standard double or twin room on the exact same nights for £261.
