Ireland, 1971: the contraceptive train

[jamesontheroad]

Here's a nice little news piece on a significant moment in rail-related history.

The (Belfast - Dublin) Enterprise comes up from time to time in these forums. Today, the border is open and almost invisible. However, for much of the twentieth century it also represented a significant barrier for women's rights.

In 1971, in protest at the staunch opposition of the Irish government (and of course the Catholic Church) to contraception of any kind, a large group of women took a day trip from Dublin to Belfast. There, they sought contraception from various pharmacies, before returning to the Republic, where they encountered an extremely hostile reception at Dublin Connolly. Amongst the reminiscence of one of the key campaigners, there's some historical footage of Dublin, Belfast and Connolly station.

URL: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/video_and_audio/features/magazine-36249697/36249697

 

[Comstock]

Thanks for posting this. What a long way Ireland has come in a relatively short period of time

 

[Hornet]

Thanks for posting this. What a long way Ireland has come in a relatively short period of time

Really? A country that still cannot face up to it's abortion problems in an adult way, and still treats it's women , and those who dare to give advise on the matter, in an appalling manner. Live here and see the reality.

 

[duesselmartin]

maybe we are getting too political for a railway forum?