Making partners of enemies: the Irish peace process
The Hawke Centre is pleased to present former President of Ireland, Mary McAleese in conversation with political journalist and commentator, Annabel Crabb.
Nelson Mandela once remarked “If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner”.
As outlined by Mary McAleese in her abstract, the truth of that observation took a long time to dawn on the protagonists in the generations old politico/sectarian conflict that afflicted Ireland and her people and Ireland and her coloniser. Indeed it seemed as if every attempt at creating “peace” was doomed to failure.
Despite some calling the problems intractable the peace-makers set about navigating towards a partnership between these deeply estranged old enemies, resulting in the international treaty known as the Good Friday Agreement of 1998. It is based on justice, equality and parity of esteem. It is not perfect or pretty or without its frailties and mistakes. It is rightly and honestly called a “peace process”.
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There is a long journey still ahead, but there is also an emerging message of hope and proof that enemies can become partners.
In this very special event on the 2014 Hawke Centre calendar, former Irish President Mary McAleese in conversation with political journalist and commentator Annabel Crabb, takes us on a journey from where Ireland once was, to where it is now, and to where it needs to set its compass to move forward into the future.
The UniSA Nelson Mandela lecture series is co-presented by the Hawke Centre and the Law School.
FREE registration, Making partners of enemies: the Irish peace process
3 September, 6pm
Adelaide Town Hall
