Termon Welcomes Launch of Paddy McMenamin’s Book on Long Kesh

A significant literary event is set to unfold in Termon on **March 15, 2024**, as Dr. Joe Kelly will officially launch **Paddy McMenamin’s** latest book, titled **‘Voices from Inside – Hidden Journals of Long Kesh’**. The launch will take place at **19:00** in the new GAA Centre, marking an important occasion for both local history enthusiasts and those interested in the narratives of political prisoners.

The book features **15 journals** meticulously edited and typed by McMenamin during his time in the Cages of Long Kesh in the **1970s**. These journals were smuggled out with the assistance of McMenamin’s father and had remained preserved in a shoebox for five decades. The collection provides a rare insight into the experiences of Republican political prisoners during that tumultuous period.

In recent years, the **University of Galway** expressed interest in acquiring these significant documents. As a result, McMenamin donated the Cage Papers to the university in **August 2023**. These papers are now housed in the university’s Special Collections Archives, available for future undergraduate and postgraduate students to explore as part of their studies on **20th-century Irish history**.

Significance of the Cage Papers

An official handover of the Cage Papers took place at the **Hardiman Library**, attended by several academics, including **Lawrence Marley**, a history lecturer whose father, Larry Marley, organized the escape of **38 prisoners** from the H Blocks in **1983**. Unfortunately, Larry Marley was later murdered by loyalists. Other notable attendees included **Breandan MacSuibhne**, a history professor and author, **Barry Houlihan**, an archivist, and **Monica Crump**, the university librarian.

The Cage Papers represent a primary source offering a unique perspective on life for Republican political prisoners, enriching the academic landscape alongside collections from prominent individuals such as former President **Mary Robinson** and civil rights activist **Kevin Boyle**. The papers have been digitized by the university and are now accessible online worldwide.

Book Launch and Future Impact

The launch event on Friday will celebrate the culmination of McMenamin’s efforts, as this book marks his fourth publication since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. It includes all journals from the collection, accompanied by **100 photographs** from the Cages, as well as notes in the Irish language, poetry, and songs.

To support local initiatives, **€5** from each book sale will contribute to the Termon fundraising drive, aimed at enhancing the community’s facilities. This event not only highlights the literary contributions of McMenamin but also fosters a deeper understanding of an essential chapter in Irish history.

The launch promises to draw significant attention, reflecting the ongoing interest in the narratives of those who lived through one of Ireland’s most challenging eras.