Join us for an insightful evening with author Peadar Thompson as he discusses his groundbreaking book, Lost Gaels: Remembering the Members of the GAA Killed During the Conflict in Ireland. This work provides the first comprehensive account of the impact of the Troubles on the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), a story that was under reported and is still today under acknowledged.
Thompson, a lifelong Gael from West Belfast and member of Naomh Eoin GAA club, has dedicated years to compiling these poignant stories. His background in human rights and victim advocacy, including work with Relatives for Justice, uniquely positioned him to undertake this significant project.
A key theme in Lost Gaels is how GAA members became targets during the conflict simply by their participation in the GAA and playing Ireland’s traditional games. They were “soft targets” chosen because of the special place the GAA held in the Irish community and as an act of terror and intimidation. Their stories challenge the too widely accepted narrative of the conflict in Ireland and the role of agents of the British government of that time/.
Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the untold stories of GAA members whose lives were tragically cut short simply for engaging in an act of Irish identity during the conflict. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing by the author.
Event Details:
Date: February 23rd,2025
Time: 2:00 PM
Location: Rockland GAA