International Women's Day celebrated at Tipperary Town Library

Tipperary Town Library played host to a representative audience of around 50 people – women and men – on Thursday March 7 on the eve of International Women’s Day.

Inspired by the trauma of the Soloheadbeg Ambush over a century ago, writers Anna Ó Laoghaire and Annette Condon shared their own personal connections to the event that trigged the War of Independence, the impacts of which still reverberate in Ireland today. Hosted by journalist and broadcaster, Catherine Fogarty with the historical and local background narrated by writer and historical documentary maker, Mary Alice O’Connor, the evening featured short, conversational style interviews, storytelling, music by local harpist Hannah O’Connor and poetry readings by Ó Laoghaire, Condon, and writer and artist, Trish McHale.

Mary Alice O’Connor said, “The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 was Inspire Inclusion. In keeping with that theme, we celebrated how female descendants of individuals affected on both sides of the War of Independence have found reconciliation through poetry. We hope that this event has helped break down barriers and deepen our collective understanding of the past. We have had a hugely positive reaction with many attendees describing the event as ‘inspirational’ and ‘moving.’

We acknowledge with gratitude, the Heritage Office at Tipperary County Council for its financial support, Catherine Fogarty for facilitating this event and Tipperary Town Library for the wonderful venue and hospitality.”