The Fianna were the army of the High King.

Fionn Mac Cumhaill was leader of the Fianna. Other famous members were Fionn’s son, Oisín and Oisín’s son, Oscar.

The Fianna lived by their motto:

• Glaine in ár gcroíthe (Goodness in our hearts)
• Neart in ár ngéaga (Strength in our limbs)
• Beart de réir ár mbriathar (Truth on our lips)

Before a young man could join the Fianna he had to be master of many skills.

He had to be able:

• to recite poems and stories
• To pluck a thorn from his foot while running
• To run under a branch as low as his knee and jump over one as high as himself without changing speed
• To run so lightly and quickly that he would not break a dry twig under his feet
• To be truthful, helpful and generous
• To show signs of becoming a great warrior

The Fianna were great warriors and hunters. They lived outdoors from May to November and they spent their time hunting and fishing.

Fionn had two hunting dogs, Bran and Sceolán.

From November to May they lived in the houses of princes and chieftains.

They were a band of warriors worth emulating.

If Fianna Fail is trying to emulate the Fianna they’re failing badly.

As leader of Fianna Fail and the Government, Cowen is no Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

His two hounds, Lenihan and Coughlan, aren’t up to much either.

Bring back the Fianna …… and get rid of the current incumbents!