Hunger Strike Parade To Be Held

A parade is to be held in Derrylin in County Fermanagh next month in memory of republican hunger strikers.

The ten paramilitary prisoners, who included Bobby Sands, Raymond McCreesh and Kieran Doherty, died on hunger strike in the Maze Prison in 1981. They were protesting the withdrawal of political status for republican inmates by the British government at the time.

The parade is due to begin at 14:45 on 3 August and will take in Main Street and Doon Road on its journey. It is expected that 27 bands, 6,000 participants and 5,000 supporters will take part.

Some unionists and residents have expressed anger that the parade will be going ahead, given that the village witnessed several IRA murders throughout the Troubles.

Sinn Féin has organised the event. One of the party's MPs, Michelle Gildernew, said: "I am proud that Fermanagh has been selected to stage the National Hungerstrike Commemoration given the fact that Bobby Sands was elected to represent this constituency in 1981.

"The annual commemoration is not only a dignified parade to honour Irish Hunger Strikers but a series of events including lectures, displays and youth events that allow people to remember the sacrifice made by these men.

"The commemoration attracts up to 10,000 people so there is also an economic benefit to the local businesses as many people travel to the area. The organising committee is already working with the local community to minimise any disruption during the parade and ensure that the event is successful."

(IT/JP)