The presentation examines why the Tourmakeady Ambush might still remain significant today. It attempts to position where the events of May 03, 1921, might be placed within the broader context of the Decade of Commemorations. It is given from the perspective of the Volunteers and Cumann na mBán, and those that supported their endeavours in South Mayo. It examines the collective aspect of the engagement by highlighting communities such as Kildun and Srah. It also examines the central role of the Irish language and women to its narrative. The Tourmakeady Ambush was undertaken by a group of Volunteers that were poorly armed and this talk attempts to address why those same Volunteers may have nevertheless still felt strongly enough to plan and undertake such an engagement.

• What led to the outbreak of the War of Independence in Mayo and who were the participants?

• Who were the Mayo IRA volunteers? i.e. Background, age profile, economic status.

• How did the RIC react? and what and when were the reprisals?

• How successful were the local IRA & how did their methods of engagement change?

• Explaining the Flying Columns, Black and Tans, Auxiliaries & RIC Reprisals.

Remembering the Tourmakeady Ambush with a private family wreath laying ceremony at the Michael O Brien and Padraig Feeney gravestones, followed by a prayer service.

Due to Covid-19 pandemic these events will be for family members only. Also broadcasting of a pre-recorded sod turning ceremony at several of the key locations of the ambush.

New music will be performed by local composer and musician Sheona Ní Mháille.