Earlier this year Trinity College Dublin announced it would “dename” its Berkeley Library because of the links to slavery of its namesake, 18th century philosopher George Berkeley.
The news sparked debate about when it is right to change the historic name of a building or institution.
Irish Times columnist Fintan O’Toole argues that the dozen or so GAA clubs named after 19th century Irish nationalist John Mitchel should also rename themselves, due to Mitchel’s support for slavery and his trenchant racism.
But if we start renaming things, how will we know where to stop? When is it necessary and when is it simply impractical? And why was John Mitchel such a racist, anyway?
Gardaí search for potential information left behind by deceased Kyran Durnin murder suspect
Failed general election Independents Cathal Barry and Matt Shanahan to run for Seanad
Irish witnesses to be called to testify at Dublin firefighter rape trial in Boston
Fintan O’Toole: We’re heading for the second biggest fiscal disaster in the history of the State
Fintan O’Toole talks to Bernice Harrison.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon. This episode was originally published in May 2023.
