The Pioneer Total Abstinence Association celebrates one hundred years with Mass at Croke Park.
The Pioneer Total Abstinence Association (PTAA) was established in Dublin in 1898 by Father James Cullen. One hundred years later with around half a million members, representatives from every diocese in Ireland congregated in Dublin along with international members. Membership comprises around 200,000 in Ireland and 300,000 outside Ireland, mainly in Africa.
For a hundred years, pioneers have been taking the pledge to stay off alcoholic drink for life.
Padraig Brady, President of the PTAA, said the association went through rough periods over the last few decades but there has been a resurgence in support over the past few years.
Members from Kenya, Bolivia, Britain, the United States, and further afield, gathered in Croke Park to celebrate the centenary. A message from Pope John Paul II urged all pioneers to continue to educate young people about the value of temperance and to help people suffering from addiction and abuse.
Cardinal Francis Arinze delivering the homily outlined some of the consequences of excessive drinking. These included degrading behaviour, poor health, tension in the home, neglect of children, waste of family money, and sexual abuse.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were President Mary McAleese and Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 30 May 1999. The reporter is Joe Little.
