Council Chair Hosts Reception to Mark Book Launch of Local Author Jim Quinn

Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Barry McElduff, recently hosted a reception for local author Jim Quinn to recognise his outstanding achievements and to celebrate the launch of his latest book. Speaking at the event, Councillor McElduff said:

”As Chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, it is with great pleasure that I welcome you all here to the Townhall, Enniskillen, for this reception to mark the launch of local author Jim Quinn’s book – ‘Red Flags and Rising Voices: Fermanagh’s Labour History 1930–79’.

I always welcome the opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and contributions of our local people, and today I am particularly pleased to celebrate Enniskillen local – Jim and to formally mark the launch of his latest publication.

Jim commenced his professional career in 1974 with Peeters Picture Frames. Following the company’s closure, he undertook formal study in Labour Relations before progressing into the field of community development. This combination of extensive professional experience and rigorous academic study undoubtedly shaped and influenced the trajectory of his career, leading to his appointment as an officer with the Transport and General Workers’ Union in 1993.

Jim has been a steadfast champion of workers’ rights for approximately fifty years, and the launch of his latest work reflects a deep and enduring personal commitment that has shaped both his life and his career. This strong commitment to workers’ rights emerged early in his professional life and was consistently applied to the improvement of working conditions for many individuals. He became actively involved in trade union activity, campaigning for improved pay and representing colleagues affected by workplace closures and redundancy processes, using his knowledge and expertise to advocate on behalf of others.

Red Flags and Rising Voices: Fermanagh’s Labour History 1930–79’ explores Fermanagh’s labour history over a period spanning almost five decades. It presents a compelling account of social transformation, highlighting the men and women who campaigned for change against a backdrop of significant social and political development. Most importantly, Jim expertly uses this work as an opportunity to amplify the voices of the ordinary working people, restoring their perspective to prominence and affording it the recognition and platform it so richly deserves.

On behalf of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, and on my own behalf, I would like to commend you, Jim, on the launch of your book. The production of a book of such high quality and research requires a significant investment of work, focus, and determination. I would therefore like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation for the important work you have undertaken and continue to undertake. I would also like to thank everyone who has taken the time to attend today, and I hope that you will all take the opportunity to read the book and gain insight and learning from its contents.