This film is part of Free

Ulster

A documentary examining the links between religion and politics in Northern Ireland.

Documentary 1967 27 mins

From the collection of:

Logo for Northern Ireland Screen

Overview

A compelling analysis of the complicated dynamic between religion and politics in Northern Ireland. Pivotal political figures of the day - such as Prime Minister Terence O’Neill, the Reverend Ian Paisley, Gerry Fitt and John Hume - are interviewed. The documentary provides an intriguing picture of Northern Ireland on the eve of The Troubles and the prevailing attitudes of the time.

This film addresses many of the most pressing issues in Northern Irish society in the late-1960s. O’Neill argues for the changing of the local electoral system. His intentions are questioned by Gerry Fitt, a Republican Labour MP who talks of gerrymandering. John Hume, then a young Catholic teacher in Derry, points out the city’s segregated housing estates. Housing is a recurring theme, Brian Faulkner discussing the new development of Craigavon. Ian Paisley also appears, asking his audience to be "uncompromising in our stand for the Protestant faith".