Critical Engagement

Abstract

TJI). When I moved to the University of Warwick in early 2015 as a post-doc, my plans to develop the book came with me too. It represents the culmination of approximately five years of research, reading and (re)writing, during which I often found the mere thought of re-reading some of my work again nauseating; yet, with the encouragement of many others, I persevered. Over the course of the book's lifespan I have accumulated enough debt of gratitude to last several lifetimes. As such, I wish to acknowledge the contribution that many people have made to help this book come to fruition.An apposite starting point for reciting my long and ever-expanding list of thanks is with Liverpool University Press and Alison Welsby. Thanks to everyone, group aligned and independent republicans alike, who facilitated or participated in the interview process; 32 County Sovereignty Movement, Coiste na nIarchimi (and its local affiliate branches), Community Restorative Justice Ireland, Conflict Resolution Services Ireland, Éirígí, Expac, Irish Republican Socialist Party, Justice for the Craigavon 2, Republican Network for Unity, Republican Sinn Féin, Sinn Féin and Teach na Failte. Thanks also to the staff at the Northern Ireland Political Collection, Linenhall Library, Belfast for all their help and assistance during archival research. The collection is a magnificent resource whose worth is matched only by the helpfulness of those who staff it. I am also indebted to Daniel Holder of the Committee on the Administration of Justice for helpfully providing clarity on post-Historical Enquiries Team policing mechanisms for 'dealing with past'.Many learned scholars have helped develop the critical thinking contained in this book. In particular, my PhD supervisory team of Kris Brown, Eilish Rooney and Bill Rolston will always have my gratitude for their wisdom, patience and humanity as they guided me through early academic development. Likewise, Kieran McEvoy and Fionnuala Ní Aolaín have always been generously forthcoming in their feedback and encouragement.