Insecurity drives the core issue in fascism, according to Des Geraghty
Former Union Leader Des Geraghty Unveils Documentary on James Connolly
Des Geraghty, a renowned figure in Irish politics, trade unions, and culture, has recently taken on a new role as executive producer of a documentary film titled "We Only Want the Earth." The film, which focuses on James Connolly, a legendary figure in Irish labor history and political thought, premiered at the Firkin Crane Centre in Cork on July 25, 2025 [1][2][3].
Born in the Liberties in 1943, Geraghty comes from a family with strong republican connections. His father was a member of Na Fianna Eireann, and his mother's brothers went on the run during the independence struggle [4]. This background has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping Geraghty's political views and his enduring admiration for Connolly.
Geraghty's career has been diverse, spanning roles as a trade union leader, politician, author, musician, and campaigner. He worked as a full-time union official for 35 years, involved in industrial relations and negotiations with employers [5]. After stepping down as Siptu leader in 2003, Geraghty has had a high-profile second act, mixing service on public bodies with campaigning [6].
The documentary, which Geraghty describes as a celebration and exploration of Connolly's life and legacy, is a significant cultural offering within Irish trade union circles. It aims to educate and inspire contemporary audiences about Connolly’s socialist and republican ideals [1]. Geraghty believes that Connolly's legacy is still relevant today, particularly in light of the working class being attracted to right-wing ideas [7].
Geraghty's connection to Connolly is not limited to politics. He shares Connolly's lifelong love of Irish music, having written a biography of Luke Kelly in 1994 [8]. He remains active in the music scene, serving as chairman of Poetry Ireland and appearing at the Masters of Tradition festival in west Cork [9].
Geraghty's political career extends back to the 1990s, when he was a member of the Workers' Party and its post-split iteration, Democratic Left, serving in the European Parliament [2]. He also unsuccessfully ran for the Seanad for Labour in 2002, largely eschewing party politics [10]. In 2009, he was approached by Brian Lenihan, then finance minister, to join the board of the Central Bank as chair of the risk committee [11].
Despite stepping down from many of these roles, Geraghty remains vocal about social and political issues. He is particularly critical of economic thinking that focuses solely on the bottom line, arguing that every penny spent in social welfare is channelled into the economy [12]. He is also vocal about Israel's destruction of Gaza and European inaction on the issue [13].
Geraghty's documentary on James Connolly serves as a testament to his enduring commitment to labor and political idealism. By connecting historical ideals with modern activism, the film renews public engagement with Connolly’s ideas in light of current social and political challenges [1][2][3].
The documentary, produced by Des Geraghty, offers a fusion of education and self-development by exploring the life and legacy of James Connolly, a renowned Irish political figure and labor leader, thereby inspiring contemporary audiences with his socialist and republican ideals. Des Geraghty's political career, extending beyond trade unionism and politics, has been marked by his vocal stand on various general news topics, including economic policies and global political crises.
