NEWS FROM THE CELTIC LEAGUE ?Need for an independent National organisation to ensure patriots and those who strove to secure Manx political and cultural identity are remembered and their resting places and all sites associated with them are properly maintained? As is the case, and perhaps understandably it was the political commentary at the 2015 National Illiam Dhone commemoration that held the headlines. However, mixed in with the general comments, when Bernard Moffatt opened the proceedings, was a call for Illiam Dhone to be more adequately recognised both in terms of a memorial and general improvement and maintenance of the site of his execution. Whilst Illiam Dhone is one of the most significant historical figures in National life he is by no means the only one. Some years ago in conjunction with Mec Vannin and the Manx branch of the Celtic League ceremonies were organised at several sites around the Island where prominent National figures are buried. The late Jamys y Cowle (Freddie Cowle) of Ramsey took a leading role in initiating these events and figures such as Sophia Morrison, Bishop Hildesley, J J Kneen and many more were remembered at brief ceremonies around the Island. In some instances short commemorative pamphlets outlining the individual?s contributions were produced to mark the event. There is a need for an independent National organisation, similar to the short-lived Cofiwn organisation in Wales or the much longer lasting NGA in Ireland, to ensure patriots and those who strove to secure Manx political and cultural identity are remembered and their resting places and all sites associated with them are properly maintained. At forthcoming meetings of both Mec Vannin and the Celtic League Manx branch I will be urging both organisations to take the initiative in founding a non governmental organisation (NGO) to undertake such a role. Such an NGO should have its own independent integrity and would be a body to which anyone from National political parties, cultural and language groups or those non-aligned could belong. Coincidentally, this week marks the anniversary of the death of Sophia Morrison just weeks after nationalists honoured the death of Illiam Dhone. People like Sophia Morrison (the others mentioned above) and other prominent figures deserve to have their contribution regularly remembered. Links: (voir le site) (voir le site) (voir le site) J B Moffatt (Mr) Director of Information 16/01/15 (Please note that replies to correspondence received by the League and posted on CL News are usually scanned hard copies. Obviously every effort is made to ensure the scanning process is accurate but sometimes errors do occur.) ISSUED BY THE CELTIC LEAGUE INFORMATION SERVICE. The Celtic League has branches in the six Celtic Countries. It works to promote cooperation between these countries and campaigns on a broad range of political, cultural and environmental matters. It highlights human rights abuse, monitors all military activity and focuses on socio-economic issues Internet site at: (voir le site) (voir le site)