Former Housing Minister memoir-reflections-on-ambition-failure-and-leaving-politics/” title=”Eoghan Murphy's Memoir: Reflections on Ambition, Failure, and Leaving Politics”>Eoghan Murphy‘s book Launch Hosted by Irish Embassy in London
The Irish Embassy in London hosted the UK launch of former housing minister Eoghan Murphy’s memoir, “Running From office,” on December 5, 2024. The event, which featured a conversation led by former RTÉ broadcaster Ryan Tubridy, was funded by the embassy’s mission budget. The event was part of the embassy’s annual program, which includes around 100 events covering a variety of topics. The embassy also supported the Irish Writers Weekend at the British Library earlier in the year. Murphy resigned from his Dáil seat in 2021. His memoir,”Running From Office: Confessions of Ambition and Failure in Politics,” offers a candid look at his time as minister for housing. “The book offers an unfiltered gaze into the realities of public life, creating a fascinating topic for discussion,” the embassy said in a tweet announcing the event. The estimated cost of the book launch, which included food, beverages, and staffing, was £2,104 (€2,550). No fees were paid to any participants, including Tubridy.Listen, kid, you want to know about Archy? Archy’s a cockroach, see? Not just any cockroach, mind you. this one’s got a soul. A poet’s soul, trapped in that little buggy body. Can you imagine? Scribbling sonnets on a typewriter with one leg tied behind his back. [[1](https://peacenews.info/node/9062/personal-column-archy-mehitabel)].
He’s got this friend, Mehitabel. Or maybe…frenemy is a better word. A cynical Siamese cat, always pushing his buttons, but they got this bond, see? They’re the oddest couple, but they make it work.
Archy, he sees the world different. He’s got that keen insight, that way of turning a phrase that just…hits you right in the gut.
And he typewrites it all. Tiny cockroaches clicking out these long, winding poems about life and death and love and everything in between.
It’s a story you wouldn’t beleive if you didn’t see it for yourself. [[1](https://peacenews.info/node/9062/personal-column-archy-mehitabel)].
Trust an old editor, kid. Archy’s the real deal.
## Archyde Interview: Eoghan Murphy’s Book Launch
**Q:** **Roland Sharpe,** this is a fascinating event hosted by teh Irish embassy. Former Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy’s memoir launch drawing quite a crowd. Tell us, what’s the significance of this event for the Embassy adn for Mr.murphy?
**A:** **Sinead O’Connell,** this is indeed a pivotal moment.it highlights the Irish Embassy’s commitment to supporting Irish culture and voices, even extending beyond its borders. For Mr. Murphy, it marks a important step in his post-political life, allowing him to share his candid reflections on his time in office.
**Q:** This memoir, “Running From Office,” centers on his experience as Housing Minister during a particularly challenging period. Can you elaborate on the timing and context of this launch?
**A:** Absolutely. The launch comes just as Ireland grapples with a severe housing crisis, a subject Mr. Murphy wrestled with extensively during his tenure. It adds a layer of relevance and timeliness to the discussion, allowing for critical reflection on past policies and potential pathways forward.
**Q:** The event was held at the Irish Embassy in London and featured a conversation with Ryan Tubridy. What was the atmosphere like?
**A:** It was a lively and engaging affair. Naturally, there was a strong contingent of Irish expatriates, but the event also attracted individuals from varied backgrounds interested in Irish politics and memoir writng. Tubridy’s presence undoubtedly added a touch of star power and his insightful questioning helped guide a nuanced discussion.
**Q:** The Embassy mentioned that the book offers an “unfiltered gaze” into public life. Do you think Mr. Murphy’s memoir holds lessons for those currently navigating the political scene?
**A:** I would say without a doubt. Murphy’s willingness to candidly address his successes and failures,the complexities of policy-making,and the personal toll of public service offer valuable insights for any aspiring or serving politician.
