Irish rebel band the Wolfe Tones have defended Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane after he was filmed shouting ‘Up the RA’ following his re-election.
They said that they don’t expect British people to apologise for wearing a poppy in commemoration of fallen British soldiers.
In turn, Irish people shouldn’t apologise for the phrase ‘Up the RA’ – which is used to show support to the IRA.
Waterford TD Cullinane apologised for doing so and said that he didn’t mean to cause any offence.
However, the legendary Irish band Wolfe Tones have said that needn’t have apologised.
The band tweeted: “We don’t have to apologise for mentioning the IRA in a song or chant.
“I don’t hear anyone asking for an apology from those celebrating the British Army by wearing a poppy to remember them.
“They were ruthless and we know of their tactics and collusion in Ireland. Should we or are we going to ban the poppy in Ireland? should we!
“We have our heroes, they have theirs, respect that.
“Rule Britannia or Land of hope and glory Rebel Jingoistic English songs I’ve no problem with them.
“I don’t hear anyone shouting are they appropriate songs to sing in public.
“Give me a break. Tolerance is needed from all sides Up the Ra.”
The Wolfe Tones recently made the headlines after their song ‘Come Out Ye Black and Tans’ reached the top of the iTunes charts in both Ireland and the UK.
This was part of a backlash over a government plan to commemorate the RIC at Dublin Castle. The RIC had been responsible for many acts of brutality, including Bloody Sunday of 21 November 1920.
In protest people in both countries bought the Wolfe Tones song, taking it to the top of the iTunes chart.
The commemoration was cancelled and the Wolfe Tones declared: “Fine Gael got their answer.”
Written by Michael Kehoe @michaelcalling
