Thomas Ashe Mellon Faces Backlash Over Controversial Facebook Post

Thomas Ashe Mellon, a prominent figure among dissident republicans, has found himself embroiled in controversy yet again, as a recent call on his Facebook group to "join the IRA" sparks outrage and ridicule. This comes in the wake of a tribute to Máire Drumm, the late Sinn Féin vice-president and republican icon, on the 48th anniversary of her assassination.

A Call to Arms on Social Media

Last week, Mellon’s social media post on the Irish Revolutionary News page, linked to Saoradh, stirred the pot of public discourse. The post commemorated the legacy of Máire Drumm—assassinated by loyalist gunmen in 1976 while in the Mater Hospital, recovering from an eye operation—by quoting her infamous line, urging people to "join the IRA."

"OTD – October 28th 1976 – Máire Drumm was assassinated in her hospital bed by loyalist gunmen while recovering from an eye operation in Belfast’s Mater Hospital. ‘It isn’t enough to shout up the IRA. The important thing is to join the IRA’ – Máire Drumm,” the post read.

This message has ignited discontent not just among the public but also among his peers in the republican community, with many accusing Mellon of ineffectiveness and poor judgment.

Context and Background

The recent tribute to Drumm comes at a sensitive time. The sentiment echoed in Mellon’s post mirrors the exact words used by fellow dissident Stephen Murney just months earlier—a statement he is currently facing legal repercussions for. Murney stands accused of inciting support for a proscribed organization, illustrating the fine line between political expression and legally actionable speech in this fraught atmosphere.

It’s noteworthy that MI5 has released insights indicating declining numbers of active dissident republicans, claiming that only about 30 individuals pose a credible risk to national security across all groups. This context raises questions about the potential efficacy of Mellon’s online recruitment strategy.

Political Implications

Sources within the republican community have condemned Mellon’s online recruitment tactics as "amateurish" and indicative of a desperate measure to revitalize dwindling support for the New IRA. One source lamented:

"It’s not a very sophisticated effort for the latest recruitment drive, calling for people to join the New IRA on a public forum such as Facebook—it’s just embarrassing."

The implications of such posts are significant, especially considering the ongoing legal issues faced by individuals like Murney and the overall declining effectiveness of dissident groups.

Internal Struggles

Mellon has faced a series of setbacks recently, including an appearance in court that drew ridicule from his peers. He stood charged with offenses related to a republican parade in Derry—an event that also landed Murney in trouble. Observers noted a contradiction in Mellon’s actions; while he refuses to recognize British courts, he engages with them to seek legal aid, and apply for bail—behaviors that have led even hardcore supporters to brand him as somewhat of a "joke."

"He refuses to stand, which is supposed to mean he’s not recognizing the court, yet he applied for legal aid, employed a solicitor, applied for bail and bail variations," remarked a source acquainted with the internal dynamics of the dissident republican movement.

This pattern of behavior indicates broader issues of credibility and support for Mellon, suggesting that he may be losing favor even among those who once viewed him as a leader.

The Legacy of Máire Drumm

Máire Drumm remains a polarizing figure within the republican movement, immortalized by her commitment to the cause and remembered for her tragic end. Her funeral saw attendance from over 30,000, highlighting the deep respect she commanded. Republicans, including notable figures like Gerry Adams, have sought to honor her legacy, driving home the significance of her voice within the movement.

Drumm’s life and legacy continue to resonate, making the current discourse around her words not just a personal matter for Mellon, but also a reflective commentary on the state of republicanism today.

Community Reactions

Responses to Mellon’s post have been met with skepticism and mockery across social media, particularly among members of the very community he seeks to engage. With MI5 emphasizing a dwindling dissident presence, the call for recruits in such a public forum has raised eyebrows and incited calls for reflection on the efficacy of current strategies.

While some remain committed to the republican ideals that Drumm espoused, many are questioning the methods of those like Mellon, finding their tactics at odds with the legacy of the figures they aim to honor. As the Republican movement grapples with its public image, the focus will shift to how leaders like Mellon navigate these turbulent waters.

We invite our readers to share their thoughts on this development. How do you perceive the actions of Thomas Ashe Mellon and the current state of the dissident republican movement? Please feel free to leave your comments below.