1980s
This section focuses on the 1980s. It includes letters, photos and newsletters. With a range of topics from the Troubles to soccer celebrations, all sides of life during this time are shown on this page.
​
Many thanks to Michael Coyne for giving us access to Eric Durkin's photograph collection and to Kathleen Cunningham for giving us access to Sadie Redmond's collection of files.
Letter to the Irish Centre from Sean Doherty T.D
Letter to the Irish Centre from Sean Doherty T.D. saying how he enjoyed his visit, 1980 - From a collection of material collected by Sadie Redmond. Permission was granted to use these from Sadie's niece, Kathleen Cunningham.
Letter to Margaret Thatcher from Joe England
Letter from Joe England, Honorary Secretary to the Irish Centre, to Margret Thatcher addressing the prisoners who were participating in the Hunger Strikes in response to the way they were treated in the Long Kesh/Maze Prison, 1981. This document highlights the anger and frustration that the Irish population held in regards to how the British Government was treating the men participating in the Strike.
A copy of the letter sent to Thatcher was published in a copy of the Centre's newsletter allowing the members of the Centre to see that it is a place that will fight to support the members of its community and their loved ones.
The inclusion of a copy of this letter next to a copy of the entertainment guide shows the resilience of the members of the Centre.
Finn Harps Football Celebrations
Finn Harps Football (Soccer) Celebration - Photo by Eric Durkin, access granted by Michael Coyne
Secretary Report 1981
Pages from the 1981 Secretary Report including information on Irish language classes, details on the numbers of new applications, and a copy of the years secretary report.
Easter Fancy Dress 1982
Photos taken by Eric Durkin
Secretary's Report 1982
Pages from the 1982 Secretary Report. These pages include an entertainment guide with information form performances from the 19th of November to the 5th of December, a copy of that years Secretary Report, and a copy of that years welfare report.
