Of course, the Newry region is steeped in the Gaelic tradition, the language still been spoken in the 1930’s. And Omeath was a Gaelteacht, with a native–speaking population until the 1920’s. Indeed, a flourishing Irish College was situated at the present Park Hotel, one of the teachers being Padraig Pearse, who drew up the 1916 Proclamation there, while the principal was (General) Eoin McNeill, who counter-manded the 1916 Rising.

Records show that in the 19th and early 20th century, Gaelic was spoken in the Mayobridge, Rostrevor and even Castlewellan areas, as well as the frontier town. A local newspaper reported: “Protestants in Newry talked Irish to incoming country folk on market days. Many were proud of whatever Gaelic they knew, and few regarded it as not theirs.”

Upwards of 500 people were attending Irish classes in Newry Town Hall during leisure hours, which led to courses at the local Technical School. Meanwhile, ceilithe were affording the opportunity to meet on a social level. And a shop on Monaghan Street, called the Gaelic Depot, stocked only Irish-made goods. But this cultural renaissance was halted nation-wide by the advent of the Civil War.

Indeed, it would be the 40’s and 50’s before a new generation of Irish speakers would emerge to revive the Gaelic League in the Newry region, led Feilimi Magennis, Canon Pettit, Tom McArdle, Bro Beausang, Dr Una McClafferty, Gerry Rankin, Paddy Sweeney, Fr Carville, Sean Patterson, Mary Donlon, Paddy Magill, Kevin Neary, Paddy Crinion and Harry Lewis, who became President of Comhaltas Uladh.

Now the Census of 2001 has shown that the Newry and Mourne area has the second highest proportion of Irish speakers outside of Belfast, with about 16,000 people, over 20 per cent, having some knowledge of the language.

One commentator: “The growth of the Irish language in the community of Newry and Mourne is testimony to the hard work of local Irish speakers, the Bunscoil and the wider community. Not only has it been one of the greatest growth areas for Irish speakers over the past ten years, but we can expect an even larger increase over the next decade.

“Newry and Mourne Council has a pivotal role to play in the growth of the language. We shall be monitoring the work of all the councillors, and are confident that they will come on board, providing the necessary support for an increasing section of our population.”

Reference has been made to the role of the Bunscoil in creating this situation, which will be reassurance to those like Peter Mallon, who laboured through the lean times. When Ministry recognition and funding was granted, and the new school was officially opened, it was 'Mission Accomplished,' Peter’s job was done, and he could concentrate on his dream of a Culturlann.

Born and still resident at John Martin Gardens in Newry, he and his four brothers, Pat, John, Thomas and Stevie Mallon had been keen pigeon-fanciers, winning many awards, including the Derby. At the Abbey primary school, his classmates included the future Dr Shortall, Fr Ronan Grimshaw, Joe Cregan, Gerry Fegan, Pat McCaffrey, Frank and John Mathers.

Employed by the Ulster Transport Authority, the red-haired Ballybot man was active in the Civil Rights Movement, carrying the banner at parades and demonstrations. He and his uncle, Hugh Mallon from Corrags, were interned on the prison ship, `Maidstone,` but were released without charge. He later formed the Sinn Fein Youth Accordion Band.

One of Down’s best-known supporters, Peter recalled how the late Tommy McKay would call at the home of the legendary Bobby Langan, who lived opposite, with the red-and-black jerseys to be washed by Bobby’s sister, Minnie. And if Bobby needed any flags or bunting, Peter’s wife Kathleen would make them.

This committed Gael is now focussed on securing a permanent centre, where young people can learn Irish, be taught to play Irish music, take part in Gaelic drama, - maybe produce another Susan Lynch or Brenda Rankin, - learn the history and heritage of their land, visit ancient Celtic sites, as well as the burial-places of John Mitchel and John Martin, or take part in Colaiste Beausang. Members have won awards at the National Drama Festival.

In charge of the Culturlann project are Peter Mallon as chairman; Colm McAteer as vice-chairman; Vanetta Hillen Keane, secretary; Emmanuel O’Reilly, treasurer and Irish Language Officer; along with Gerald and Jacqueline Devlin, Seamus Kenna, Fiona and Eamonn Walker.

This enterprising stalwart is also associated with plans for a Naoisceal at Barcroft Community Centre, whose committee includes Anthony Coyle, Ruth Harte, Seamus Kenna, Raymie Thompson and Barry Treanor. So it a case of the wheel turning full circle for Peter Mallon. In any case, President Mary McAleese should be consulting her diary to slot a date for the official opening of Culturlann an Iuir!

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