Today, Explained The invisible border
Jan 31, 2020
Susan McKay, an acclaimed author and journalist from Londonderry, dives deep into the implications of Brexit on Northern Ireland. She reflects on the evolution of the Northern Ireland border from a militarized zone to an 'invisible' barrier, raising concerns about the resurgence of past tensions. The poignant story of Patsy Gillespie reveals the haunting memories of conflict. McKay also discusses the fragile peace established by the Good Friday Agreement and its ongoing challenges in the face of political upheaval, emphasizing the significance of navigating turbulent histories.
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Patsy Gillespie's Sacrifice
- Patsy Gillespie, a young father, was forced by the IRA to drive a van with explosives to a British army checkpoint.
- He sacrificed himself to warn the soldiers, saving lives but leaving his family devastated.
Brexit's Threat to Peace
- Brexit risks reigniting violence in Northern Ireland by potentially disrupting the hard-won peace.
- Even a symbolic border structure could become a target for dissident Republicans.
Roots of the Troubles
- The Troubles in Northern Ireland stemmed from the partition of Ireland, which created a complex border and disadvantaged the Catholic minority.
- The civil rights movement, met with violence, further escalated the conflict.