This year the Red Flag festival takes place in Navan from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st May, commemorating the life of Jim Connell, a lifelong socialist and union activist. For many he is best remembered as the author of the lyrics of 'The Red Flag', an anthemic song that has united workers worldwide for well over a century.
Among the events planned are talks on James O'Brien and Eva Gore-Booth, a housing panel, and a traditional music and social night at Loughran's Bar, with special guest star Briana Corrigan headlining.
The main commemoration takes place on the Sunday at the Jim Connell Monument in Crossakiel, with addresses from John King, general secretary of SIPTU, Sarah Woolley, general secretary of the Bakers, Food and Allied Workers Union, and voices of international solidarity, including Palestinian representatives.
For festival organiser Paul McDonnell the festival is an opportunity for unions and trade unionists to gather in the spirit of international solidarity. An opportunity made especially poignant by the location. Paul said: “The monument stands as a symbol of international solidarity and a reminder of the millions of Irish emigrants who helped build trade unionism worldwide.”
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