Opinion: The End of an Era?

They say a week is a long time in politics; obviously six months is a lifetime in local affairs. I have been hearing very disturbing accounts of meetings held in the name of the community.

And before anyone starts with “you don’t live in the town” etc. etc. etc. let me just say this much: Back in 2001, I think it was, I got involved in KCA (Kilcullen Community Action).

My understanding at the time was that the group would attempt to have an impact on the development of the town of Kilcullen by engaging prospective developers, and Kildare Co Co, in a positive and proactive manner to ensure that the needs of the community were met in the context of sustainable development.

While I was not present at any of the recent meetings of KCA, I have first hand accounts from two reliable sources, and I also have first hand accounts of other statements made outside of these meetings.

It is always difficult for a small community to maintain its identity and ethos in the face of the kind of growth Kilcullen has seen in recent times.

When the “come heres” outnumber the “been heres” there is bound to be a bit of the old “us and them” divisive attitude that can lead to what Ireland seems to thrive on — “The Split”.

Except this time the split seems to be coming from within. The “been heres” are at each other throats, and the trust and mutual respect we used to maintain for each other has been compromised.

This is not a good thing. This is a very bad thing, in fact, and unless as a community we take a step back, cool our horses, and work together for a mutually inclusive future, I fear we are witnessing the death knell for the small town feel that attracts so many new people into the community.

As in any situation, if people work together the difficulties can be resolved. Compromise by definition means that neither side in a difficult situation (I will refrain from using the word “conflict” owing to its negative connotations) gets all of what it seeks. Compromise requires humility, which is the enemy of arrogance.

Cool the heads people, seek the truth, question motives and follow your hearts — just doing what you think is right usually works out in the end.

— Roy Thompson.

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