Ireland’s leading trade union festival, is set to return to Liberty Hall on Saturday 11th May, following last year’s successful inaugural event. The festival of debate, song and drama will include discussions on trade union strategy, international solidarity, and the fight against the forces that seek to divide working-class communities.

President of Ireland Michael D. Higgins will take to the main stage to deliver the 2024 Robert Tressell Festival keynote address on the evening of the 11th May, in what has been described as “an honour” by event organisers. 

“We are honoured that the President of Ireland will make the main 2024 Robert Tressell Festival address. It is fitting at this celebration of one of the greatest socialist writers to be born in Dublin, that President Michael D Higgins, as an artist, historian and a leader of international opinion in the struggle for peace, should discuss the continued relevance of the ideas that infuse The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists,” said organising committee chairperson, Seamus McDonagh. 

In addition, former leader of the UK Labour Party, Jeremy Corbyn MP, RMT’s Mick Lynch, INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha, Amazon Labor Union leader Chris Smalls, and ICTU General Secretary, Owen Reidy, will also contribute to the debates. Entertainment will be provided by Lankum’s Darragh Lynch and Dublin band Faró.

ICTU vice president and organising committee member Katie Morgan said that this year is shaping up to be “bigger and better” than last year. 

“This festival celebrates the life and work of Robert Tressell and the passion that he had for creating art and fostering debate, which is crucial to the workers’ movement. Interest and support from our movement has been immense and we’re anticipating more demand for tickets than ever before so it’s important to book them early,” she said.

More information on the Robert Tressell Festival 2024 can be found here.

Daytime tickets cost €5.50, while tickets for the evening rally cost €20 (plus booking) Buy your tickets here.

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