Fermanagh Protest Held in Support of Republican POWs

international | rights, freedoms and repression | press release

Monday September 25, 2006 16:26

by Seán Ó Murchú - Republican Sinn Féin - Cork

A white-line picket was held in Newtownbutler, Co. Fermanagh, on Saturday, 23rd September. The picket was organised by the Republican Prisoners’ Action Group (RPAG), and was in support of the demands of the POWs currently on protest in Maghaberry Gaol. In spite of adverse weather conditions a large crowd turned out to demonstrate their support for the prisoners' demands.

FERMANAGH PROTEST HELD IN SUPPORT OF REPUBLICAN POWs

A white-line picket was held in Newtownbutler, Co. Fermanagh, on Saturday, 23rd September. The picket was organised by the Republican Prisoners’ Action Group (RPAG), and was in support of the demands of the POWs currently on protest in Maghaberry Gaol. In spite of adverse weather conditions a large crowd turned out to demonstrate their support for the prisoners' demands.

Following the white-line picket a rally took place. The proceedings were chaired by Ruairí White from Newry – a member of the Ard-Chomhairle of Republican Sinn Féin – who introduced the National Spokesman of the RPAG and former Independent Republican councillor for Fermanagh, Tony McPhillips. Mr. McPhillips highlighted the conditions faced by the POWs in Maghaberry, adding that the situation in the gaol was hurtling towards a crisis point. The Republican POWs had just finished a 72-hour fast. He called on anyone with influence to use that influence in order to resolve the dispute.

The Cathaoirleach then introduced Fergal Moore – an Ard-Chomhairle member of Republican Sinn Féin from Co. Monaghan – who gave the main address. Mr. Moore emphasised the need for everyone to support the prisoners in their demand for political status, stating that the best way to prevent the abuse of prisoners was to restore the All-Ireland Republic. He asked those not involved in the Republican Movement to consider taking up an active role within the Movement, helping the Movement to expel the British forces of occupation from Ireland.

The proceedings concluded with the singing of Amhrán na bhFiann.

There was once again an overt RUC presence on the day. Approximately ten minutes before the demonstration was due to begin, an RUC jeep was observed departing Lisnaskea Barracks. After driving through Newtownbutler several times, the jeep took up a position to monitor the demonstration. The British colonial police remained until the conclusion of the event.