The ICA’s centenary - A revolution that worked

THE Irish Countrywomen’s Association marks a century of wonderful achievement this year.

It is one of the great, if often underestimated, organisations in Ireland. It has changed so many lives and families by a combination of education, encouragement and creative social interaction.

Its understated radicalism was determined and more inspired by a belief in social justice and the power of possibility than political activism. Indeed, one of the reasons it has been so powerful is its reluctance to involve itself in politics and the inevitable divisions that brings. The patriotism, the vision and the energy that informed this great movement remain a template for real and lasting social revolution.