National outlook: The dominant political topics of the 50 years previous to 1914 were the Land Issues of tenant farmers and small holders, versus the landlords of Ireland, and the growing aspiration to full Home Rule for Ireland. Latterly the Home Rule issue had taken dominance. The goal was pursued in the Westminster Parliament by a very cohesive and professional Irish Party under the leadership of John Redmond, a Wexford born M.P. of considerable ability. For all his political life Redmond had pursued peaceful constitutional politics.
Throughout all the counties of Ireland, North and South there were local branches of the Irish Party. Associated societies friendly to their cause and dependable at election time were the Irish National Foresters, Ancient Order of Hibernians and members of the Gaelic League. On the eve of war the Irish Party held 84 seats and was probably at the greatest strength they would ever muster. Their position in Irish social and political life seemed unassailable.
John Redmond M.P. and County Wicklow
The leader of the Irish Party John Redmond (1856-1918) had a special relationship with County Wicklow dating from his association with Charles Stewart Parnell of Avondale. The bonding was further strengthened by the residency of Redmond’s brother William in Delgany village, although he served as MP in another constituency (East Clare). Following the death of Parnell in 1891, the Irish party was in disarray until Redmond reunited it in 1900. John Redmond later acquired his old chief’s shooting lodge at Aughavannagh in central Wicklow and used it as a casual residence and summer retreat. This necessitated frequent journeys through the heart of the county by train, horse transports and later by motor vehicle. Over time Redmond became a familiar figure at County Wicklow social and public events which he always tried to attend if in the county. This closeness to local society was to play a significant role in subsequent events as on September 20 1914 at Woodenbridge.
