The indomitable Raging Grannies outwitted the usual flank of steel at Shannon Airport by simply entering the terminal as travellers, complete with abundant luggage. First they sat down to enjoy a coffee, before springing into life, pulling their usual No to war, US out of Shannon placards from their suitcases, dancing and singing and clapping to “Ain’t Gonna Study War No More.”
Some of the passengers applauded and began to get into the performance. The authorities were thrown into confusion by the unexpected breach; they didn’t know whether to concentrate on trying to stop passengers recording the scene or on the Raging Grannies themselves, or to remove the Clare Champion press photographer.
Order was eventually restored, the photographer was evicted from the terminal and had to finish his assignment outside, and the Raging Grannies were escorted to the car park.
One of the inspectors said, “I don’t understand why you don’t go to your usual place at the roundabout,” while another said, “I hope there aren’t going to be any other surprises today!”
The Raging Grannies went on to join the huge and diverse crowd on Bank Bridge in Ennis, organised by Clare Women’s Network, with singing, planning, and speeches.
A good rumbustious time was had by all, while the Goddess bathed us in glorious sunshine.
