And Fr Burke told those present at the Newry INF Jubilee Banquet: “We had been told that, when the war was over, we would not be allowed to share in the `fruits of victory,` that our nation would sink into misery and starvation. Ireland has not shared in those fruits of victory; yet she was able to send hospital supplies, food and clothing to the stricken nations, who had been promised a share in the fruits of victory by Mr Churchill.

“Now the British people have put into power a Labour government, which promised to do its best for nations, great and small. They had a glorious opportunity to prove their sincerity. They could have ceased financing the Quisling Stormont Government, telling them that they would no longer bolster up the planter stock in Belfast, because Britain did not have enough finances for itself.

Responding to a toast of `the Clergy`, Fr Hugh Esler, - who is commemorated in Pairc Esler, - stated: “The history of Newry has been remarkable for the bond of unity between priests and people; and I hope that characteristic will remain unsullied in the years ahead. In the past, some people for their own ends have endeavoured to drive a wedge between us, but so far they have failed miserably.

“The world that we have seen over the past 20 years has been actuated, not by a spirit of service, but a spirit of `what can I get out of the other fellow?` Unless we return to the spirit of service, the years that lie ahead will indeed be dark and bitter. But if the spirit of the Irish National Foresters, - Unity Benevolence and Nationality, - are preserved intact, the days that lie ahead will be of hope and confidence.”

A colourful parade around the town, including members of St Brigid’s Girls Club; the newly-formed girls section of the Camlough branch, as well as junior members of the John Mitchel Branch, was led by the three local bands. At the Abbey Grounds, a display of drill, figure-marching and gymnastics, climaxed by an elaborate tableaux, was organised by Tommy Markey, assisted by Patrick Carroll and Joe Kavanagh. A boxing competition was also held.

Chief Ranger Frank O’Hare, manager of McCann’s Bakery, spoke of the important part that youth could play in an association like the Irish National Foresters. He urged the boys and girls to maintain their deep interest, and `always remain a credit to the Order.`

General Secretary, Joe McCrudden stated that “when the next jubilee comes along, the boys and girls here present will be men and women. I hope they will continue the good work, and remain faithful to the organisation.”

Taking part in the celebrations had been Peter Fox of Newry, - `the grand old man of the Order.` Then in his 80th year, Mr Fox had been a member of the John Mitchel Branch since its inception, and been Chief Ranger three times. He had compiled a poem about John Mitchel, being personally complimented by the patriot’s brother, William.

Another veteran, Tommy Price stated that, when the Gaelic League had been formed, the Irish National Foresters had not only assisted it financially, but an entire branch of the society had joined it, and `worked enthusiastically for its spread.`

Meanwhile, centenary celebrations of the Newry branch took place with pomp and circumstance, 40 years later. Coinciding with the All-Ireland Convention, a big influx of Foresters converged on the town, parading to a special Mass in St Brigid’s Church at the Meadow, followed by a tour of historic sites in the region.

On the Monday, following Mass in the cathedral for deceased members of the Society, delegates assembled for the Annual Conference, being officially greeted by Pat Toner, chairman of Newry and Mourne Council, - a member of the Forkhill Branch. At a banquet in St Colman’s Parochial Hall, guests were welcomed by Chief Ranger Pat McManus and General Secretary, Hugh McKenna.

“In these troubled times, we justly feel proud that we have always shown the true spirit of Unity, Nationality and Benevolence towards our fellow man and woman. We hope to bring together all classes and creeds in a free and prosperous land. It is only in this way that there will be peace and happiness in our country,” the Chief Ranger stated.

Newly–elected High chief Ranger John Smyth of Carlow Branch said: “While I feel proud that that our country has contributed so much to alleviating distress all over the world, this is tinged with sadness as we are still divided, and cannot yet take our place among the nations of the earth.” He presented 120 senior members with special plaques as a tribute to their long service.

A toast to the John Mitchel Branch was proposed by Bro Beausang of the Christian Brothers: “My knowledge of the Irish National Foresters stems from my observation of the Newry branch, during two terms in the town. They have performed thousands of acts of kindness, love, benevolence and charity; it was very edifying to see the members go about their work. They have also run Irish language classes, and been generous with scholarships to the Gaelteacht.”

Now, over 20 years later, the John Mitchel Branch passed another milestone, having chalked up two Diamond Jubilees. And the All-Ireland Convention provided another opportunity to highlight the excellent achievements of the Newry Branch, since those pioneering days of 1885.

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