The Turbine was recently approached anonymously by a senior figure from the UCD Literary and Historical Society, with documents suggesting they planned a trip to Drumcree for the weekend of the 10th of October. The trip was then cancelled at the last minute. The documents appear to show that the Treasurer had set aside society funding to facilitate the renting of a 52-seater bus and the provision of accommodation and meals for what was supposed to be a several-day event. Separately, the society appeared to be setting aside money to cover potential legal fees for anyone on the trip.
According to the documents, the aim of the trip was “to stand in solidarity with those facing oppressive forces bent on the destruction of their peace and way of life.” Also contained within the leaked documents were emails sent between the LnH Auditor and a solicitor in which the Auditor praised his commitment to free speech and his integrity as “a defender of patriots.” Communications between the Society Secretary and the Grand Master of the Orange Order were also uncovered, in which the secretary enquired about sourcing suitable orange apparel for members on the trip to wear in solidarity. The Grand Master sent a list of recommended local businesses with owners “of good faith and family” for the society to become patrons of.
The Trip was suddenly cancelled following the Northern Ireland Secretary’s ban on the Orange Order marching down the Garvaghy Road, with committee communications showing a deep despair within the ranks that all their planning had gone to waste. It is understood that the society is currently exploring other avenues of collaboration in order to deepen their growing bond with The Loyal Orange Institution.
When approached for comment on this article before print, the LnH auditor made threats of violence against volunteer members of our investigative team. In the interest of their safety, no further communication has been made with the society, and mandatory explosive checks are now being carried out on the paper’s office and staff vehicles.
By: August P. FitzEvans