Coincidentally, I’m currently reading a book that John Molyneux wrote. I bought it at my first PBP branch meeting in 2016. I didn’t know him then and I was surprised to learn he was in the same area some time afterwards. I was expecting him to be an intimidating and distant intellectual but I was very wrong. I got to know him since and he has left a lasting impact on me. He was humble and patient. We discussed Marx and how to tackle him over tea in my house. He never looked down on my ignorance or lack of understanding.

We’ve been on many demos and protests together, but one that stands out for me is the time just the two of us stood outside Inchicore College to hand out leaflets about an upcoming protest. He had a busy day of organising and working but his commitment to the smallest of actions for the greater good was just one example of his selflessness. He would have been there even if I hadn’t.

We would doubtlessly cross paths at every protest. He’d come up for a chat about the turnout and the speakers. Then he’d open his bag and say, “Jimi, have you got one of these yet”. Before I knew it, I’d be down a fiver and I’d have the latest IMR under my arm. I met him after at the end of the housing demo a few weeks ago and poignantly, he didn’t have any copies left. He gave me a pamphlet he had written instead and he had a chat with my little fella. He always had time.

I will miss his gentle presence but his knowledge and understanding of politics will be a loss for socialists everywhere. I haven’t known anyone so committed to human progress as John was and I doubt I will again.

RIP