Academy award nominated actor, writer and director, John Sayles visits Waterford

A capacity audience attended at Garter Lane Theatre on Thursday last to listen to John Sayles, the twice academy award nominated actor, writer and director who was a guest of the Waterford Council of Trade Unions as part of their centenary celebrations.

The interview with Damian Tiernan was prefaced by a talk by Tommy Hogan, President of the Trades Council who acknowledged Roy Hassey who originally approached John Sayles to introduce his brilliant film Matewan, about a small mining community in West Virginia and their struggle for decency and a proper living wage which resulted in represssion and violence visited by Mine owner thugs. The coming together of white coal miners with black coalminers and Italian immigrant coal miners sought a real unity between workers regardless of creed or colour or religion.

Following the screening John Sayles accompanied by his wife Maggie was presented with two Crystal vases in commemoration of his visit. He also answered questions about the film from the audience. A wonderful and educational experience by all in attendance.