Packed turnout at Kilrea Town Hall for Martina Anderson book launch
The former Sinn Féin representative addresses packed Town Hall to launch her memoir, ‘Choosing the Struggle’
A large crowd gathered in Kilrea Town Hall on Saturday evening for the launch of former Sinn Fein MLA and MEP Martina Anderson’s book, Choosing the Struggle.
The event saw people from Kilrea and the surrounding area come together to hear Martina Anderson reflect on her life, her political journey and her experiences throughout decades dedicated to the republican struggle.
Local Sinn Féin councillor Sean Bateson opened proceedings and welcomed Martina to Kilrea, thanking those who had turned out in such numbers for the event.
Cllr Bateson said: “It was fantastic to see such a large crowd in Kilrea for Martina’s book launch.
“I want to thank everyone who came along and helped make it such a successful evening.”
The event included a conversation between Martina Anderson and Coleraine Sinn Féin Councillor Niamh Archibald, during which they discussed the former MEP’s life and many of the experiences recounted in Choosing the Struggle.
Martina spoke about her experiences during the conflict, her involvement in republican politics and the journey which ultimately took her from imprisonment in England to representing people at Stormont and in the European Parliament.
Cllr Archibald said it had been particularly moving to hear Martina Anderson speak movingly about those experiences.
She said: “It was incredibly moving to hear Martina share some of her experiences and reflections on the struggle.
“Her contribution over many years has given her a unique story to tell, and it was powerful to hear that story in her own words.”
The discussion also gave those in attendance an opportunity to hear more about the personal experiences behind the events covered in the book and Martina Anderson’s reflections on the people and circumstances which shaped her political life.
Martina said she was delighted to have the opportunity to bring the book to Kilrea and thanked those who attended for the warm reception she received.
“It was great to be in Kilrea and to see so many people come along,” she said.
“I really appreciated the warm welcome and the opportunity to talk about the book and some of the experiences behind it.”
Martina Anderson also highlighted the charitable purpose behind the book, with proceeds going towards the Martin McGuinness Monument.
She added: “I’m also very proud that the proceeds from the book will go towards the Martin McGuinness Monument and support the work being carried out in Martin’s name.”