Dr. Labhras Ó Murchú, Ardstúirthóir, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, launched Michael O’Neill’s Memoir “Community: A Time, Place, and People” on September 15, 2024, at Teach Ceoil, Tully, Renvyle, Connemara.

Esteemed community activist and former Connemara West plc director shares decades of experience in fostering community development and collaboration.

Michael O’Neill, renowned community activist and former director of Connemara West plc, unveiled his much-anticipated memoir, “Community: A Time, Place, and People,” at a special launch event on September 15, 2024, at Teach Ceoil, Tully. The event will be graced by Dr. Labhras Ó Murchú, Ardstiúrthóir of Comhaltas Éireann, who officially launched the book.

The memoir offers an insightful exploration into the heart of community development.  Drawing from over five decades of hands-on experience, O’Neill delves into the challenges, triumphs, and transformative initiatives that have shaped the region, providing a compelling narrative and history of the power of collective action and local engagement.

“This book is a testament to the incredible spirit and resilience of the people of Connemara,” said Michael O’Neill. “I wanted to capture the stories, lessons, and collaborative efforts that have paved the way for sustainable growth and innovation in our communities.”

The timing is opportune.  Fifty years ago, in 1974, the Christian Brothers departed Letterfrack where they had operated St Joseph’s Industrial School since1888. The departure of the Christian Brothers marked the beginning of a positive transformation for the village and the region.  A local group of community activists made a decision to purchase the former Industrial School buildings and encouraged the State to take on the farm and Diamond mountain lands for a national park. This visionary group had formed a local development company known as Connemara West plc and with widespread community support set about transforming the former school and undertaking numerous other projects throughout the parish of Ballinakill.  Providing leadership with others during all this period was Michael O’Neill.

In that same year, the Renvyle branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann, was formed by Michael and it remains active. The development of the Teach Ceoil was an early achievement of Connemara West and the Renvyle Comhaltas branch.

Michael’s involvement with Connemara West and many other organisations in the region and nationally is documented in Community: A time, place, and people.  It is a social history of a disadvantaged rural region as told through the experience of a national school teacher, a parent, an activist who reflects deeply on the experiences of that period.

“Community: A Time, Place, and People” is poised to serve as an essential resource for community leaders, activists, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of rural development and community empowerment. Through poignant stories and practical insights, O’Neill illuminates the strategies and collaborations that have successfully addressed social, economic, and environmental challenges in the region.

About the Author: Michael O’Neill has dedicated his life to the service and development of communities. As a former director of Connemara West plc, he spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at improving education, housing, and economic opportunities in the area. O’Neill’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage while fostering modern advancement has earned him recognition and respect both locally and nationally.

RRP: €20