24.04.1997

Raising the Irish question

Fuascailt (meaning ‘Liberation’) was formed to campaign on issues concerning Irish republican prisoners - particularly those held in English jails. There are approximately 500 Irish political prisoners in Ireland and England. Conditions for those held in English jails have deteriorated significantly during the last two years, including during the period of the IRA ceasefire. With the support of the Irish Republican Movement, Fuascailt campaigns on the following issues:

• For the immediate end to the inhuman and degrading conditions to which Irish republican prisoners are subjected in English jails, including an end to the use of Special Secure units.
• For the transfer and repatriation of Irish prisoners back home to Ireland. Prisoners held in English jails are denied regular contact with their families and friends, causing additional hardship to both them and their families.
• Against the draconian Prevention of Terrorism Act and for those detained under it.
• On behalf of Irish remand prisoners who, although not convicted of any crime, are held in special secure units, are subjected to closed visits and who as a consequence of the excessive and unnecessary security measures imposed on them and their solicitors are being prevented from receiving proper legal representation.
• Against the extradition of Irish people to Britain.
• To raise funds for the welfare of prisoners and their families.

Saturday April 26 - election canvass at 10am outside Archway Tavern (opposite Archway tube). Come and join the Fuascailt cavalcade, which will go to leaflet Irish areas and raise the issues with all the candidates.

Sunday May 4 - Downing Street picket at 12.00-1.30pm. This picket will be to ‘greet’ the newly elected prime minister and demand the immediate transfer of all Irish POWs.