Yet again, the blind hatred of Maghaberry screws towards Irish culture has manifested itself in the destruction of two Celtic crosses, handmade as memorial gifts for family members of lost loved ones.
The two items left Roe House, Republican Landing, a number of weeks ago in boxes to protect their delicate make-up. Yet, by the time they reached Visits Reception, the Security Department had drilled holes through the bottom of the crosses, directly through the names of Republican prisoners.
This was a recurring problem years ago, which now seems to have become commonplace again, despite the fact that an X-ray scanner exists within the prison. Its existence removes any false pretence or necessity to vandalise items such as these with drills.
The lack of respect shown towards Irish culture and the lost loved ones of Republican prisoners comes in the same week that Republican prisoner Barry Toman was refused compassionate bail to attend the funeral of his uncle.
During the application, the Maghaberry administration advised that they could facilitate the viewing of the funeral via a video link. This assurance influenced the court’s decision to refuse Barry compassionate temporary release (CTR).
However, the administration never facilitated the video link, despite repeated requests from Barry on the morning of the funeral. Eventually, a governor came onto the landing two hours after the burial to offer what amounted to an insincere apology.
This lack of respect comes as no surprise to Republican prisoners, but it should be condemned by all right-minded people.
Republican Prisoners
Maghaberry Gaol
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