RNU Demand Reinstatement of Political Status in Maghaberry Prison

national | rights, freedoms and repression | press release Sunday May 09, 2010 14:00 by Ardoyne Republican - Republican Network for Unity (RNU)

Political Status

The following letter has just been forwarded to a number of media outlets...

A Chara,

As a former political prisoner, I’d like to express my sadness at the current situation faced by republican prisoners in Maghaberry.

On Easter Sunday political prisoners in the gaol took part in a disciplined protest to highlight problems they were enduring. Ever since, republicans in Roe House have been denied proper medical, washing, association and exercise facilities. The refusal of these basic rights is another example of a vindictive prison regime. Who have been criticised in the past by the Human Rights Commission and Prisoner Ombudsman regarding serious irregularities and mismanagement.

The families and friends of republican prisoners are also subjected to long delays and oppressive searches from prison staff during visits to the prison. These negative activities are totally unacceptable and must end immediately.

Last week Harry Fitzsimmons was forcibly taken by the prison riot team to a solitary confinement block. Were he suffered a number of injuries from screws who remain wedded to draconian measures and the failed policies of the 1970’s.

What the prisoners require is a reinstatement of the humane conditions which were implemented following the tragic hunger strikes of 1981. Were human rights and entitlements are safeguarded. Without addressing these concerns properly, the situation will deteriorate further. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us all to challenge what passes for ‘justice’ in Maghaberry!

Is Mise,
Martin Óg Meehan
Republican Network for Unity