1986

April 29, 1986

Death of Séamus McElwaine

Séamus McElwaine, a prominent Irish Republican Army (IRA) volunteer, was killed on April 29, 1986, during an encounter with British special forces in County Monaghan, Republic of Ireland. McElwaine, aged 25, was a highly active member of the IRA's South Fermanagh Brigade during The Troubles. His death was a significant event in the ongoing conflict, highlighting the dangerous and often deadly nature of paramilitary operations and counter-insurgency efforts during that period. His legacy remains a contentious topic within Irish history.

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1986

Politics

August 7, 1986

Peter Robinson MP arrested in Clontibret

On August 7, 1986, Peter Robinson MP, who later became the first minister for Northern Ireland, was arrested in Clontibret, County Monaghan. He led a 500-strong loyalist demonstration into the village, protesting against the Anglo-Irish Agreement. This incident highlighted the deep divisions and tensions surrounding the political landscape in Northern Ireland during that period. Robinson's actions were a direct challenge to the agreement, which aimed to give the Republic of Ireland a consultative role in Northern Ireland's governance. The event underscored the ongoing struggle for political stability and peace in the region.

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1986

Sports

October 5, 1986

Sean Kelly Wins Nissan Classic (Second Time)

Sean Kelly secured his second victory in the Nissan International Classic in 1986.

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1986

Deaths

October 20, 1986

Death of General Michael J. Costello

General Michael J. Costello, a significant figure in early 20th-century Irish military and industrial life, passed away on October 20, 1986. Costello played a crucial role as a colonel commandant in the National Army during the Irish Civil War (1922–1923), remarkably at the young age of eighteen. His military career continued, and he later served as assistant chief-of-staff from 1937 to 1939. After his military service, Costello transitioned to a prominent role in industry, becoming the general manager of the Irish Sugar Company from 1945 to 1966, where he oversaw considerable expansion and modernization.

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1986

Politics

November 2, 1986

Sinn Féin Votes to End Abstentionism in Dáil Éireann

On November 2, 1986, a pivotal Sinn Féin Árd Fheis (annual conference) took place, where delegates voted to amend the party's constitution, allowing elected members to take their seats in Dáil Éireann, the parliament of the Republic of Ireland. This decision marked a significant shift from the party's long-standing policy of abstentionism, which had been in place since 1922. The change was controversial and led to a split within the party, with some members forming Republican Sinn Féin. This move was a crucial step in Sinn Féin's evolution towards a more mainstream political strategy.

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