Go 'Way Outta Dat - Bush / C.I.A. Not Welcome Here

limerick | anti-war / imperialism | news report

Sunday March 05, 2006 23:12

by Elaine

Protest At Shannon

"A security operation involving several hundred gardai and soldiers was maintained before and during the stopover." So says the Indo online. Indeed we saw several hundred Gardai and Army personnel as we made our way into Shannon earlier Yesterday afternoon.

Asia and Me At Shannon Terminal (pic by Tim)

We were alone outside the Terminal long enough for me to have a ciggie and all of us to have a conversation as to the best place to display our disgust at our Country's complicity in this genocide. Right outside the front door of the Airport was deemed to be the best spot and we spent several minutes enjoying the bright sunshine before the Security / Guards got wind of our presence.
Then ensued the (I am told) usual routine; we were politely asked to leave. Which we did, by foot, walking the banners past the front of the Airport and several travellers who watched in cowed silence. Many indulged in displacement activity, fidgeting with their bags, looking for cigarettes etc. Others read our banners and looked a little frightened. 'Dangerous' Ideas and outspoken honesty can upset those with a herd mentality.
We had an escort for our walk back, two men in suits. They declined to take our photo as a group but didn't demur when we stopped to pose at various locations. They asked how we got past the 'Wall Of Steel'. We just laughed in response and asked were they going to 'slag the arse' off the uniforms guarding the entrance. They said 'that's why we are walking with you'. But I'm sure that was not the only reason..

Colm And Tim At Shannon Terminal