Thomas D'Arcy McGee Summer School returns to Carlingford

The highly anticipated 12th annual Thomas D'Arcy McGee Summer School is scheduled to take place on August 15 & 16 2023, at the Four Seasons Hotel in Carlingford. This year's event focuses on reflecting on the 25th anniversary of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement and exploring the contemporary issues that will shape the continuing roll-out of the agreement's future over the next twenty-five years.

Signed in 1998, the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement is a pivotal milestone in the history of Ireland and Northern Ireland, bringing an end to years of conflict and opening the path to peace and reconciliation. This anniversary provides an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the agreement while also contemplating the challenges and opportunities it has presented over the past twenty-five years.

The Thomas D'Arcy McGee Summer School serves as a vibrant platform for fostering dialogue and understanding within Ireland. By delving into the issues that will shape the future of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement across the shared island, the event transcends old political divisions and seeks common ground to address contemporary changes such as climate change, economic disorder, migration, disrupting technology, and artificial intelligence.

Honouring the legacy of Thomas D'Arcy McGee, an Irish rebel and Canadian patriot, the Summer School draws inspiration from his vision of "unity in diversity." McGee's example of working with former enemies to build a better world serves as an inspiration for finding common ground and addressing future challenges.

The event will bring together an exceptional lineup of speakers and participants, including: Professor David Wilson, recipient of the prestigious Thomas D'Arcy McGee Ireland and Canada Person of the Year award, is a passionate educator and historian who has dedicated his efforts to promoting unity in diversity and deepening the understanding between Ireland and Canada.

His acclaimed two-volume biography of Thomas D'Arcy McGee sheds light on the life, vision, and legacy of this Irish rebel and Canadian patriot.

Bronagh Hinds, civil rights campaign veteran and staunch women's rights activist who has empowered women in politics, policy influence, and peace-building. Her work with organisations such as the Women's Policy Group and the Women's Budget Group has made a significant impact on gender equality and social justice.

Emma de Souza, journalist and writer on contemporary politics who fought a legal battle to uphold her rights under the GFA as an Irish citizen born in Northern Ireland. Her insights into present-day Northern Ireland's political landscape are both relevant and timely.

David and Linda Irvine, who have made a remarkable contribution to the promotion of the Irish language in East Belfast through their project Turas. By challenging preconceptions and fostering understanding, they actively promote cultural diversity and inclusivity in their local community.

Tommy Sands, a renowned singer and songwriter from Mayobridge, Danny Kennedy, a Unionist politician, both local figures and contributors to the Summer School, bring their unique perspectives to the event.

Sands has been involved in fostering togetherness through music, while Kennedy has played a significant role in Northern Ireland's political landscape. Their insights from the local context will enrich the discussions and provide valuable perspectives.

Joel Key, a young loyalist who emerged on social media, offers a contrasting viewpoint to the Summer School. His presence provides an opportunity for diverse perspectives and dialogue, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of the issues at hand.

The Summer School will also feature the Newpoint Players' thought-provoking play, "The Trial of D'Arcy McGee," which examines the different perspectives surrounding McGee's actions and legacy.

The play presents protagonists and antagonists representing those who view McGee as a traitor and those who defend his choices, inviting the audience to consider multiple viewpoints.

Dr. Yaser Alashqar, a distinguished academic specialising in the Israel/Palestine conflict and hailing from Gaza, will contribute his expertise on various aspects of the Middle East.

His insights on civil society's role, conflicts and political movements, mediation processes, peacebuilding, and comparative politics in Northern Ireland and Palestine will add valuable perspectives to the program.

The Thomas D'Arcy McGee Summer School is committed to fostering dialogue, understanding, and collaboration. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the challenges of our time and seek insights from the legacy of D'Arcy McGee.

For more information about the Summer School and its program, please visit here.