During Mary Robinson’s presidency in Ireland between 1990 and 1997, matters of immigration were not prioritised within political discussions. Surprisingly, during the initial four years of her tenure, an exodus was observed with more citizens exiting than entering Ireland.
Robinson emphasises the importance of Ireland’s lengthy history of emigration over several generations, and demands it not be overlooked especially in an era where anti-immigrant sentiments and demonstrations outside impending asylum centres are increasing.
She expresses: In our approach towards immigration, we have to recall our history, how our ancestors had to flee the famine, and consequently had to leave Ireland to survive.
Discussing the necessity to alter the outlook on refugees, she voices: “It is critically important that we perceive the migrants and refugees as they are, who are in reality courageous individuals of their societies. They have experienced different situations to reach our country and they cater to their families back home. They work towards improving their lives.”
Robinson’s lifelong devotion towards activism, her consistent push towards creating a more balanced world is the basis for a forthcoming documentary on her life named ‘Mrs Robinson’. The film, narrated by Robinson herself, presents an introspective look into crucial points of her personal and political journey, which includes her transition from the legal to political field, a marriage her parents did not endorse, some political and personal regrets she had to endure.
In a podcast interview with Aideen Finnegan, Robinson discusses her initial reluctance towards the film’s production, her aspirations about what people might gain from it, and her journey from being an introverted child in Ballina to strolling the corridors of Áras an Uachtaráin.
The director Aoife Kelleher shares her thoughts remembering her experiences as a little girl observing the 1990 elections, her inspiration behind creating this film, and her delight in exploring previously unseen footage from Robinson’s father’s personal videos. This episode can be replayed in the player provided or from any preferred podcast source.