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?
Independent TD Verona Murphy elected as first female ceann comhairle
Profile: Verona Murphy’s path to Ceann Comhairle role marked by controversy
Sacking of passport office porter described as ‘hatchet job’ at WRC hearing
Co Wicklow man detained in Dubai over ‘threatening’ text message returning to Ireland
Fintan O’Toole talks to Bernice Harrison.
Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Declan Conlon. This episode was originally published in May 2023.
