C. Y. O’Connor and John Boyle O’Reilly were two Meathmen who made their mark in Western Australia. Their stories have already been told. Here is the story of a third.

Paddy Lynch emigrated from Ireland to Australia as a young man in the 1880s. He worked as a labourer, miner, seaman, engine-driver and trade union official before embarking on a political career. As a senator he represented Western Australia in the Federal Parliament for over thirty years. His fiery eloquence fuelled many a debate. A pioneer Laborite, he later evolved into something of a right-wing conservative. As an Irishman, he defied expectations by assuming a leading role in the campaign for conscription during the 1914-18 War. He was expelled from the Labor Party and served out the rest of his career in the anti- Labor ranks. This thoroughly-researched book tells the story of his life, notably his colourful and controversial political career, and attempts to resolve the paradox that was Paddy Lynch.

Priced at A$40 including GST and postage.

Available from: 

Centre for Irish Studies Murdoch University Murdoch WA 6150 Phone: 93602366 

enquiries to Danny Cusack