A Crowd of Over 1,000 Gather to Celebrate the Life of Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane
Belfast witnessed a poignant farewell on Tuesday as friends, family, and notable figures from the republican movement came to pay their respects to Brendan "Bik" McFarlane, who passed away on February 21 after a brief illness at the age of 74. The service, held at Milltown Cemetery, was attended by leading members of Sinn Féin and others who hailed McFarlane as both a comrade and a pillar of Irish republicanism.
Former Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams, along with North Belfast MP John Finucane and Donegal TD Pearse Doherty, were joined by many fellow mourners outside McFarlane’s home on Cliftonville Road, where the street bustled with people ready to honour his legacy. Adams was seen carrying the coffin, draped with the Irish flag, as they made their way to the burial service, heralding McFarlane’s contributions to the republican cause.
McFarlane’s life was marked by his embodiment of the struggle for Irish unity from a young age. He was born in the Ardoyne area of Belfast to a devoutly religious working-class family and initially pursued aspirations of the priesthood. Yet, the political climate of the late 1960s during the Troubles altered his path. Joining the Irish Republican Army (IRA) as a young man, he quickly became entrenched in the movement.
His notable accomplishments during his prison years earned him recognition across Ireland. He played a key role during the 1981 hunger strikes, serving as the officer commanding the H-Block prisoners. His leadership during this tumultuous period highlighted his commitment to fighting for prisoner rights and republican ideals.
Perhaps most famously, he was intricately involved in the audacious escape from Long Kesh prison, where, alongside fellow members like Gerry Kelly, he helped orchestrate the escape of 38 prisoners through the facility’s main gates. Adams recalled this event during the memorial, noting its lasting impact: "It still sends shockwaves through the British government and was worldwide news,” emphasizing McFarlane’s strategic genius.
Gerry Kelly delivered the graveside oration, reflecting on their years together, both during the struggle and afterwards. "He had no interest in becoming an elected representative but was a driving force in North Belfast and increasing our vote, election after election," Kelly stated, honouring McFarlane’s efforts to support Sinn Féin’s political aims post-release.
Following his release, McFarlane threw himself wholeheartedly back to community work and local politics. His influence on the republican movement was immense, participating actively through the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement. Many describe him as the archetype of what it meant to be a republican: humble, heroic, and staunchly committed to the cause.
Among the many who spoke, Mary Lou McDonald, the current president of Sinn Féin, described him as “a giant of Irish republicanism.” She highlighted his belief and commitment to the idea of Irish unity, which was echoed by several speakers during the service. Acclaimed leaders underscored the vision of achieving a united Ireland as the most fitting tribute to McFarlane, solidifying his belief in the movement’s goals.
The atmosphere was one of solidarity and remembrance as mourners recounted memories of McFarlane—his kindness, his laughter, and his music. Known for his performances, he was also recognized as one of the Irish rebel music circuit's most notable figures, using songs to propagate the republican message and keep the spirit of rebellion alive.
Attendees included not only politicians but older republicans and young activists who regarded him as their mentor and inspiration. Many came prepared to share their stories, rejoicing not only in his legacy but also recognizing the importance of continuing his work. McFarlane was remembered as always taking the time for younger members of the movement, offering advice and encouragement to those stepping forward to take active roles.
The service concluded with appeals from speakers emphasizing the importance of unity and collective action to realize McFarlane’s dreams for Ireland. “Irish unity of course will not just happen. We need to make it happen, working together by continuing to put our shoulders to the wheel as Bik did all his life,” Kelly remarked, rallying spirits and hopes for the future.
Funeral proceedings were accompanied by song and reflection, capturing the essence of who McFarlane was—an ordinary man during extraordinary times, who transformed the narrative through his actions and dedication. Tributes poured forth from all corners, emphasizing the impact his life had made and the void left behind.
Brendan ‘Bik’ McFarlane was laid to rest with all the dignity and respect afforded to one of the foremost figures of modern Irish history, securing his place as a legend within the republican narrative. His call for continued struggle and unity reverberates as both a solemn reminder of the past and as guidance for the future of Irish republicanism.
His passing is not the end, as many will strive to honour his legacy through continued commitment to the ideals he stood for, working toward the vision of Ireland he dreamed of giving strength to the struggle.