A 91-year-old peace activist, Lelia Doolan, has completed a remarkable 220 km (138 miles) journey across Ireland, arriving in Dublin to advocate for the cessation of US military stopovers at Shannon Airport. Accompanied by a wave of supporters, Doolan's two-week trek culminated at the gates of the Irish parliament on Wednesday, where she presented her petition against the practice. The film producer and lifelong activist embarked on this journey to voice her concerns over the US military's use of Shannon Airport in County Clare, stating that the agreement allowing military planes to land undermines Irish neutrality.
Concerns Over Military Stopovers
Doolan's protest centers on the issue of US military aircraft landing at Shannon Airport without adequate oversight. "US military planes are landing without anybody ever agreeing in government to search them or see what's in them. Shannon is a civilian airport. It's not a military airport," Doolan expressed emphatically. While the Irish government maintains that Shannon Airport is not involved in combat operations, Doolan argues that this arrangement violates the principle of neutrality that Ireland has long upheld. She emphasized that the public has been misled into believing that these military stopovers are necessary, insisting, "It doesn't have to continue." Originally reported by The Guardian.
A Journey of Solidarity and Support
Doolan embarked on her journey on March 31, starting from Shannon Airport and stopping in cities and towns such as Limerick, Nenagh, Roscrea, Portlaoise, Newbridge, and Naas. Along the way, she was joined by supporters who walked alongside her, sharing moments of camaraderie and music. The campaign, dubbed "Walk with Lelia," also served as a tribute to her late friend and fellow peace activist, Margaretta D'Arcy. Throughout her trek, Doolan received enthusiastic greetings from locals, with Palestinian flags waving and cheers echoing as she neared her destination.
Political Reactions and Broader Implications
Upon reaching Leinster House, where Ireland's DĂĄil and Seanad convene, Doolan was met with applause and admiration. Ivana Bacik, leader of the Labour Party, publicly commended her efforts and called for an end to US military access to Shannon. The Taoiseach, MicheĂĄl Martin, acknowledged Doolan's commitment, stating he would try to meet her but reiterated the government's stance that Shannon Airport plays no role in the Middle East conflict. "We need to be very careful that we don't miscategorise Shannon airport. I think that will damage Shannon airport," Martin remarked, highlighting the delicate balance the government seeks to maintain regarding military operations.
Renewed Activism Amidst Global Tensions
The protest comes at a time when opposition to US military presence has gained momentum across Europe, with recent incidents underscoring public discontent. Just last week, an individual was arrested after allegedly vandalizing a US Air Force C-130 Hercules parked at Shannon Airport, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding military operations. Doolan expressed a sense of duty to challenge the normalization of military traffic through Ireland, urging others to take action. "It doesn't take much for a woman to be considered 'troublesome'," she said, pointing to the many activists who share her concerns. "That's why there are so many of us."
As Doolan prepares to celebrate her 92nd birthday next month, her journey has not only highlighted her unwavering commitment to peace but has also sparked a broader conversation about Ireland's role in international military operations. "If you only knew how wonderful the people of Ireland are. If only you knew how engaging they are, decent and intelligent they are," she remarked, reflecting on the kindness she encountered along the way. Her trek, intertwined with moments of poetry and song, resonates as a call to action for those who wish to stand against military encroachments on Irish neutrality. Doolan's message is clear: true change begins with individual courage and collective effort.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.