ABSTRACT
The starting point for organising the programme of content of education or political action must be the present, existential concrete situation, reflecting the aspirations of the people. In Northern Ireland that ‘existential concrete situation’ posed certain basic contradictions for those involved in community action in the Province, in particular the gap between their hopes and aspirations and the reality of their achievements. In particular it is essential to encourage more discussion and analysis of those cultural themes which form the basis of many important myths which influence and shape thinking and action in Northern Ireland. Their efforts are always at the mercy of the continuing conflict and the passions and divisions it engenders in, and between, both communities. To encourage reflection on community action the project organised a series of workshops and conferences on a variety of problems and issues relevant to community action in Northern Ireland.
