An Ród Seo Romhainn - Comhaltas

In December last year, Comhaltas initiated a new research and development programme AN RÓD SEO ROMHAINN. 10 specialist consultative teams were appointed to bring this to fruition: to provide a road map for the road ahead for the cultural traditions and heritage of Ireland. How things have changed so drastically in the meantime! What we took for granted in many cases was no more. Coronavirus was now the hidden enemy creating merciless havoc and grief throughout the land. The Irish people had to rely on their innermost spirituality and tenacity of character. The traditional neighbour for neighbour reliance again became common currency. As in days of old, the vulnerable people amongst us were our priority. There was a renewal and an energising of the old Gaelic spirit which in the past - in times of famine, conflict and mass-emigration - buoyed us with hope and determination. Ní neart go cur le chéile! Ireland is now on an unchartered journey but with many milestones from the past to guide us to a safer and more secure destination. We know that this time of crisis requires a steady nerve, a selfless vision and a dedication devoid of self-interest. We must all put a shoulder to the wheel in the national and global interest. Le cúnamh Dé, we will not be found wanting. For Comhaltas, AN RÓD SEO ROMHAINN was never more timely. Ironic though it may seem, the plan for our roadmap is now extra-relevant. Our deliberations and decisions will undoubtedly be influenced by recent tragic experiences and their aftermath. We hopefully will be a cog in the ‘meitheal’ wheel that will drive us to brighter days and better times. Is i dteannta a chéile is fearr sinn. Is féidir linn dóchas agus misneach a chothú agus sinn ag saothrú an chultúir Ghaelaigh. Le beart de réir ár mbriathar, is féidir linn ardú meanman a spreagadh i measc an phobail. Go raibh Rath Dé ar bhúr saothar agus ar bhúr gcúram. Labhrás Ó Murchú Ardstiúrthóir CCÉ