CELTIC LEAGUE: CELTIC NATIONS A PRIORITY BUT GLOBAL FOCUS WILL CONTINUE

A demonstration in support of Basque prisoner rights in Dublin. There are many interlinking strands between the Celtic countries and other parts of the world.

The Celtic League must continue to empathise with the struggle of oppressed people globally, the Leagues annual meeting in Dublin last weekend was told.

During the course of the year a number of protests had been lodged on behalf of groups fighting oppression and seeking self-determination and messages of support sent. It was also pointed out that often there was a linkage between International protest and our National effort. The (British) Army which has committed abuses in Iraq is the same Army that committed abuse and murder in Ireland

However, it was confirmed that the priority for the League must always be the situation in our own countries. Council Officers reminded the meeting that we had finite resources because the League has always eschewed support from any external source and derives its income solely from membership subscriptions.

The General Secretary (GS) outlined support given during the past twelve months to those in struggle. He said several recent protests had been targeted at China over its repressive measures against the Tibetan people.

The General Secretary also pointed out that as part of our external effort considerable time and resources had been directed to support for the Basque people. He said our affinity with the struggle of the Basques was long-standing. During 2007/8 this had continued with lobbying of political leaders to condemn arrests of Basque political activists and banning of political parties, including attending demonstrations in the Basque country. In addition support for Basque political prisoners had involved attendance by the GS on two marches and the creation of a video record. Protests had also been lodged regarding the extradition of 2 ETA members from UK to Spain.

It was agreed that support for peoples globally involved in struggles for self determination would continue - notwithstanding that our primary focus will be the six Celtic countries.

J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

23/08/08

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