On Saturday the 21st January 2017, a little past 2pm, I arrived outside Heuston Train station. It was one year ago on that day the Irish Citizens took to the streets of Dublin calling for the abolition of the water charges. There was a fairly decent turn out and a heavy Garda presence. I took my place at the front of the march and headed towards the city centre leaving from Wolf Tone Quay. As we marched on the crowds chanted and sang:
“Kenny In Your Political Tower This Is What We Call People Power”“The Banks Got Bailed Out We Got Sold Out.”
We continued down the quays before stopping outside the four courts. There was a sea of flags and banners amongst the crowds. A prop coffin box was placed outside the building to symbolise the harsh reality of our current society. I noticed a sleeping bag between the columns of the building and it really struck a chord with me.
We made our way down towards Capel Street where we met with the other crowd coming from Connolly station, cheering each other on.
Together we marched on, as the crowds grew bigger. Finally we reached the Central Bank, where
people took to the stage to give a public speech about their own personal struggles.
The speeches that were given, highlighted everything that has contributed to the downfall of our society from homelessness, hospital overcrowding and the water charges. To end the peaceful protest an open letter addressed to Michael Martin was read out.
The protest was hosted by a group called Crumlin Says No To Water Meters And Water Charges.
We would like to thank the following people:
Paul Scanall
Neil Mc Threlamb
Stephen Murphy
Mike Gavin
Claire Knowles
Ashling Lowe
Davina Reilly
Image Credit: Alan Finn
