Talks & Walks

In addition to Mary Kenny don’t miss these events. And remember that screenings of Dan, Dan, Dad and Me and Route Irish are followed by discussions with the film makers.

The Royal Dublin Fusiliers in the First World War 1914-1918 - Remembering the Volunteers from Dublin. 1pm – 3pm.  Rathmines Library

The people of Ireland played a significant role in World War I which only now is being rediscovered and discussed. This captivating talk will cover the lead-up to the outbreak of that War, the main battles relevant to Ireland, the end of the 16th (Irish) Division in March 1918, the aftermath and the more recent recognition by our State of the Irish participation in the war.

Creative Writing: Work in Progress. Creative Writing – End of Year Exhibition/Reading. 8pm -10pm. Cafe Moda

Last September Julian Judge, writer, and MA in creative writing in UCD (2008) began creative writing courses in Leinster Cricket Club. There were eight students in the courses and it is their work that is presented.

During the eight months, Julian led his students through many aspects of writing such as discovering their own voice, writing dialogue and Julian’s powerful “Show, don’t tell!!” concept. Poetry also, a new experience for the students.Don’t just let Julian be the judge, come along and listen to the works of these aspiring authors and you can judge for yourself!

Tour of Cathal Brugha Barracks, 1.30pm – 2.30pm, Saturday 25/04 and Sunday 26/04.

Returning yet again by popular demand this fascinating tour of this local and national landmark

The barracks was originally constructed between 1810 and 1815, and named Portobello Barracks for the area in it was sited. (When Francis Drake looted the city of Portobelo, Panama, died and was buried at sea in its harbour, many places in England and Ireland were commemoratively named Portobello - including part of Rathmines in 1696. The nearby canal bridge and the area became known as Portobello and thereafter, the barracks.)

Originally designed as a cavalry barracks, it saw some development along these lines, with additional land being purchased, and the addition of a church (1842) and canteen block (1868).

During the 1916 Easter Rising, and the Irish War of Independence, British Troops from the barracks were involved in actions throughout Dublin. During this time, three civilians were shot "without trial" in the barrack guardroom. The Royal Irish Rifles company commander, who ordered the shootings, was later adjudged "insane" at the subsequent inquiry and courtmartial.

On 17 May 1922 Irish troops took possession of the Barracks, and it became the National Army's Headquarters under General Michael Collins.

In 1952 it was renamed for Cathal Brugha, who was a leader during the 1916 rising, Minister for Defence in the First Dáil, and who lived locally for a time.