Barracks museum ignores volunteers

THE recently-opened museum at Collins Barracks in Cork gives visitors an interesting insight into the garrison’s history.

However, while the museum traces the history of both British and Irish occupation of Victoria/Collins Barracks, no recognition is given to the volunteers executed there during the War of Independence.

On 18 May 1922, Sean O’Hegarty (a relative of mine), in his capacity as officer commanding Cork No 1 Brigade, was given the keys of Victoria Barracks following the withdrawal of the British. Just one year earlier, men under O’Hegarty’s command had been executed by the British in the facility. Some 13 volunteers were executed at the barracks during this period of conflict.

The modern Irish Army is held in high regard for its excellent contribution to peacekeeping over the past 40 years. The sacrifice of those who died during the War of Independence paved the way for the formation of today’s armed forces and it would be a sad reflection if their memory were erased.

I appeal to the museum to ensure that those volunteers are not ignored.

Kevin Girvin

Ballinora

Waterfall

Cork