ARDOYNE REPUBLICAN

On Monday June 24, 2013, a number of Independent Republican Councillors' led by Angela Nelson were finally able to visit IRPWA Prisoners from Roe 4 and others held against their will in the CSU in Maghaberry Gaol. After they lobbying Prison Authorities for access since January of this year. Ardoyne Republican commends the initative and hopes the visit will put pressure on the Stormont and British Governments to implement the 2010 Agreement between the POWs' and the Administration. I am not sure when they will meet Cabhair Prisoners but understand that a second visit between the elected Representatives and Cogús Prisoners from Roe 3, will take place next week. Below is the text of a statement issued by Councillor. Angela Nelson, detailing the visit. ...

Independent Republican Councillors, L-R, Anita Cavlan, Bernice Swift & Angela Nelson

"On Monday I and three other Independent Republican Councillors visited Republican prisoners in Maghaberry Prison. The delegation consisted of Cllrs Angela Nelson, (Lisburn City Council), Bernice Swift, (Fermanagh Council), Anita Cavlan, (Ballymoney Council), Padraig Mc Shane, (Moyle Council).

Two other Independent Cllrs, Barry Monteith, (Dungannon Council) and Davy Hyland, (Newry&Mourne Council) were unable to attend due to prior commitments but are fully supportive of our initiative.

Our aim was to meet representatives from Roe 3 and 4 and CSU, (Controlled Secure Unit) to hear first-hand what their issues and grievances were. We are totally Independent we are only concerned about their human rights within the prison structures.

To give you some background this initiative began in January this year with me writing to NIPS (Northern Ireland Prison Service) and requesting a visit on behalf of the Cllrs. As you might have deduced this has been a long arduous battle with the system, which used many delaying tactics to deter us from going in but we persevered until we were eventually granted the visit. We were to be allowed 40 minutes with each group

Other political parties like Sinn Fein, SDLP and TD’s from the south have not met the same resistance so one can assume that is because 1,We are Republicans, 2, We will genuinely work on behalf of the prisoners and not only pay lip service to the issues.

We were informed that we would meet all of the representatives and at the time of the initial request we named the six prisoners held in CSU at that time who were, Liam Campbell (He has since been released) and the others named were Martin Mc Gilloway, Austin Creggan, Thomas Hamill, Dessie Hamill and Gavin Coyle. The prisoners in Roe House would decide who would attend the visit.

We arrived at the prison at 9am and were photographed, finger printed, scanned and searched and sniffed by the dog before we could proceed to the designated area.

Our first meeting was with Republican Prisoners from Roe 4, and they were Paul Duffy, Damian Mc Kenna, Stephen Murney, John Paul Wootton, Neil Hegarty and Damian Mc Laughlin.

This was a very productive meeting were the prisoners discussed the many issues still outstanding from the August 2010 Agreement. There are too many for me to go into but I can inform you of the 3 core issues that require immediate attention to ensure a “Conflict Free Environment” within the gaol. They are 1. Strip Searching, 2. Controlled Movement, 3. Prisoner Isolation.

As you may be aware the prisoners ended their protest on 21st November 2012 (showing maturity from them), whilst accepting there were no pre-conditions on the ending of the protest but that there would be expectations from the statutory agencies to implement the agreement in full. That has not happened and it is now 7 months since their protest ended and the conditions have not improved.

The strip searching of the prisoners continues and though they are not physically resisting the searches, they do not comply so they are brutally held down and forcibly stripped of their clothing leaving the prison domain and re-entering the prison, for court appearances or medical attention, even though they are not in contact with any other people outside of the screws. The simple answer to this is to use The Boss Chair, scan and rub down the prisoners! Why do they not?

The second issue is “Controlled Movement”. Until recently even though the protest ended 7 months ago the “Trained Riot Squad” was in full riot gear on the wing in Roe 4, this has only ceased in the last few weeks after the intervention of The Prison Ombudsman. Currently prisoners are only allowed out on the wing singly and are accompanied by two screws to where they are going. If a prisoner is going to the shower, his cell is opened he is brought to that area and locked in, if another prisoner needs to use another facility the same practice is used. If the prisoners are in the canteen they are locked in for whatever period of time they have the use of it. There are never any more than 3 prisoners out of their cells at any given time. The screws on the wing can deny even these limited accesses stating at times they are a man short on the wing because one has gone to lunch or some other lame excuse. There is very little free association if any, yet the agreement stated there would be unfettered access. Why do they not have this?

The third issue is “Isolation of Republican Prisoners”. The two priority cases of this illegal practice are Gavin Coyle and Gary Mc Daid. Both of these men have been held in Isolation since their arrest, Gavin is held in CSU and Gary in Bann House. I don’t need to go into minute detail here as you have access to their details from others. We need to be aware that both of these men are locked up 23 hours a day and have been removed from Maghaberry several times by MI5 to be interviewed without legal representation and to be “coaxed” to turn informant. Gavin and Gary should be moved immediately to Roe 4 to be with their Republican comrades. They intentionally keep these men isolated to make them feel vulnerable and to show that they have the power to do what they wish. It was our shared belief that an MI5 agenda exists within the gaol with the approval of the British Government.

The prisoners in Roe 4 have been working very hard internally to address all these issues with various people; The Prison Ombudsman, Solicitors, Governors, David Ford and The Director General of Prison Service Sue Mc Allister. Their dedication and commitment to resolving these issues are to be commended and all of us councillors were highly impressed at how they articulated their concerns.

During this part of the visit I enquired as to whether the other prisoners were being brought down to meet with us and I was told that they were not aware we were to see any other prisoners but those from Roe 3,and that Roe 3 had not coordinated their visit with us at this time. He then went to the CSU and only 4 of those prisoners were given access to us. Gavin Coyle was not informed by NIPS of our delegation that day therefore we did not see him. We met with the other 4 men named above and had an in-depth conversation with them about their conditions.

In conclusion my interpretation is this that “The August 2010 Agreement” could be implemented and offers and sign posts the way forward for “A Conflict Free Environment” within the gaol structures and nothing less will be accepted by the prisoners and the longer this prison crisis continues then there is always the chance of further protests in the future. It is up to all of us outside the prison to make sure our prisoners are treated with dignity and respect and that their basic human rights are given. The prisoners have met with other political parties and informed them of the same issues but to no avail. We Independent Councillors are determined to do everything within our power to bring an end to this stalemate".

Cllr. Angela Nelson,(Lisburn City Council)

Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective

The latest statement from the Twaddell and Woodvale Residents Association must be viewed in short as nothing more than a cynical ploy to dictate a loyalist agenda to the residents of Greater Ardoyne. This deception will neither work nor fool our community.

If the Loyal Orders are serious about real and meaningful talks with residents they must first speak directly to those who represent the majority of residents in the Greater Ardoyne area and not to an artificially created front group, who neither represent the opinion nor views of the majority within our community around the issue of unwelcome sectarian parades, otherwise any other avenue would be a waste of time and doomed to failure.

Issued by: GARC (Steering Committee)

The following statement was written by my sister, Mary and read to the assembled media outside Belfast Court today, July 5th, 2013 by my brother Kevin after Briege McLaughlin was sentenced for a number of terrible crimes against Mary between 1979 and 1980. A very brave woman, courageous sister and dedicated mother.

Mary Meehan

"Today, the crimes committed by Briege McLaughlin have finally caught up with her. Between 1979 and 1980, she terrorised and brutalised me as a ten year-old child. The substantial evidence of which is there for all to see. In early June, she pleaded guilty in Court, in a sinister manner to escape a number of sexual assault charges. Despite her pleas of guilt, Briege displayed nothing but contempt for the decades of suffering inflicted upon me. Walking from the Dock, she sinisterly smirked at me and my family who were present to support me. Within hours, Briege instructed her Solicitor to threaten respected Media organisations with legal action. If Journalists published graphic details submitted by my legal team to the Court.

On Tuesday of this week, Briege again appeared in Court to be sentenced for badly abusing me. In mitigation, her Barrister attempted to excuse her mistreatment of me to the Judge. Claiming that the level of abuse I endured was at the lower-end of the scale. When removed from Briege McLaughlin in October, 1980, I was examined by Social Services, evidence was recorded by Medical Doctors that I had sustained over 20 bruises at her evil hands. That were clearly not misdemeanors as stated by her Defence team. To add further insult, Briege's Lawyer also used the sudden death of my devoted mother in 1977, imprisonment of our dedicated father in 1979 and how she was meant to fill the shoes of our mum. In addition, Briege sought sympathy from the Court because her offences had been widely criticised in the Media and by the Ardoyne community.
In response, despite five years of a Police investigation, Courts and her removal from Sinn Fein as an elected Councillor. Briege has yet to apologise for her brutality towards me. Since 1979, she has demonised me as a victim through a tangled web of blatant lies, deception and attempts to manipulate the Criminal Justice system in her favour. Briege McLaughlin has been exposed for the cruel child-abuser that she is. My lengthy struggle for justice is finally at an end and I intend to return to a private life and rebuild our lives. After taking sometime out, I intend to do my best to help other victims to find their true voice. Finally, I'd like to pay tribute to my mother's family particularly my grandmother. My four children, brothers and sister-in-law for all their support for the past 34 years. At long last I can rest in the knowledge that the truth is out there for all to see"!

Mary Meehan.

GARC Meet the Media

The following statement was issued by the Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective (GARC)

The decision to Halt the Hate filled display of Sectarian Coat Trailing Bigotry up the Crumlin Road on the Evening of the 12th July is long overdue. The constant pressure by GARC and the community of Ardoyne has forced the Parades Commission to capitulate from their position of facilitating unwanted outdated provocative acts of sectarian triumphalism.

All futile attempts to inject a irrelevant an unrepresentative micro-group with a discredited agenda around a facilitation process into talks with loyalists will fail as the residents of Ardoyne will only except one genuine settlement which is that all Loyal Order marches through our area must cease forthwith and our community be allowed to live in peace free from unwanted Sectarian Parades.

The people of Ardoyne have shown by their resilience that they will not be beaten or brutalised into submission as our proud community has shown it can defend its self against any adversity, GARC appreciate their continued support and unflinching determination to stop all unwanted Parades.

The loyal Orders should now consider the alternative route suggested by GARC several years ago through Glenside Park for all future Parades and remove all future contention.

As unwanted morning Parades are every bit as insulting and unacceptable to nationalist residents as the evening Parades are so the Orange Orders should consider cancelling their morning Parade in the interest of creating a peaceful and harmonious environment on the 12th of July.

Issued by GARC Steering Committee

The Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective (GARC) condemns in the strongest terms the application for a Parade on the Crumlin Road this Saturday July 20th by the Orange Order proves without any shadow of a doubt the Orders total lack of regret about the violence and disruption that they have caused our community a...nd residents of all parts of Belfast and further afield since July 12th, and this also shows their lack of remorse for the damage caused.

This latest application for a Parade on the Crumlin Road can only be seen as irrational and erratic behaviour and a deliberate act of provocation and an attempt to stoke up tension in the area, driving more divisions between communities and polarising peoples.

The hollow words spouted by the Orange Order that they are prepared to “willingly and actively participate in the Haass Initiative” is being viewed by Greater Ardoyne residents as no more than a cheap publicity stunt as the Order has only ever paid lip service to finding a genuine resolution to the issue of contentious Parades.

Their hate filled bigotry has been shown naked to the whole World, as they let their mask slip and the full extent of their sectarianism was laid bare for all to see.

This has been the most peaceful July in Ardoyne for many years confirming what GARC has being saying for a long time now that it is these unwanted Coat Trailing exercises that where the basis of trouble that plagued our community for generations especially at this time of year. We are calling for this and all further unwelcome Parades to be Banned, so our community can live in Peace without disruption and move to a future free from Sectarian hatred.

GARC has also filled for a Protest on Saturday to coincide with this unacceptable bigoted intrusion by the Orange Order into our daily lives.

Signed by the GARC Steering Committee. July 18th, 2013.

The decision to again halt the Sectarian Coat Trailing Bigotry on the Crumlin Road is to be welcomed. The submission from GARC and constant pressure by the community of Ardoyne has forced the Parades Commission to stop this unwanted triumphalism intruding into our lives.

GARC has taken the decision to cancel it's planned protest for Saturday July 20th in a bid to lower tension in the area which had been again raised by the Orange Order's attempt to march where they are not welcome. All attempts by the Orange Order to provoke our community will fail and are futile.

The facilitation process into talks with loyalists will fail as the residents of Ardoyne will only accept one genuine settlement which is that all Loyal Order marches through our area must cease forthwith and our community be allowed to live in peace free from unwanted Sectarian Parades.

As unwanted morning Parades are every bit as insulting and unacceptable to nationalist residents as the evening Parades are, the Orange Orders should consider cancelling all morning Parades too in the interest of creating a peaceful and harmonious environment.

Issued by GARC Steering Committee 18/07/2013

The intention of this blog from its beginnings in 2009, was to write about the proud history of Ardoyne and its links to Irish Republicanism and Socialism. In the main, I have achieved those goals, at times however, issues such as unwelcome parades through my local community take precedence due to the feelings of people here. Likewise, politics sometimes encroach upon the blog and I comment on a host of issues. As regular readers can attest to, I very rarely name or expose anyone unless it is really needed. My facebook page is the same and I have only recently joined Twitter. Today is one of those days, when I am forced to comment publicly about a sycophantic individual, Brendan Clarke.

It is common knowledge since I left Provisional Sinn Fein in 2007, a number of Party members and supporters have been involved in a number of ways to demonise and slander me. In the latest attempt, this has took place over the Internet, through a series of real and fake blogs, Facebook and Twitter profiles. It has been testing to view who can outdo one another in the way in which they try and make sensationalist stories about me. While the majority of articles can be amusing, at times the bile published online does demonstrate a deep viciousness. In recent weeks, the identity of a number of people involved in this protracted campaign against me has became clear. Most of these attempts have taken place within Social Media sites, without evidence. Nonetheless, the dedicated team have became more and more vile towards me.

In September 1990, my second daughter, Natasha was born while I was on remand inside Crumlin Road Gaol on charges connected to an IRA gun attack on the RUC in the Oldpark area. Tragically, Natasha did not last too long in this world and she died from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, also known as Cot Death in 1991. The sudden death of my young child had a devastating impact on me and I was shattered to say the least. My Solicitors duly applied for Compassionate Bail, so I attend her funeral and pay my respects and I was given four hours to do so. My sister Mary and two good friends of mine, John and Gerard were a tower of strength during these hours and my two mates remained with me throughout. IRA Volunteers from Ardoyne were well-represented and even gave me money for whatever I needed. I gave the money to Gerard's wife to buy a dolls house for my other daughter, to give her something nice to focus on in the coming days. The Dad of a fellow POW from Ardoyne coaxed me to go along with him to the Highfield for a pint. I felt obliged to do so, as he was concerned about his son and wanted to know how he was. Sadly, he too has now passed and was a lovely person. I watched the burial of Natasha with intense pain and foreboding and returned to the Crum at 4pm. The entire experience was the most trying time of my life and something that is very private to me. At no time during those four hours free, was I in the company of anyone who could be remotely described as my, 'bit on the side'! Within two weeks of her funeral, I was 'Tried' in a Diplock Court across the road from the Gaol and was given Twelve Years imprisonment. After another 2 weeks held in D-Wing, away from my comrades, I was transferred to the H-Blocks of Long Kesh. Where I spent the next five years until released in 1996. Imagine my surprise two weeks ago, when I recieved a phone-call from a friend who told me that an Internet Troll had posted a vile comment about me in connection with my daughter's funeral to attack me? I immediately checked the Twitter page belonging to someone called; @atowneye and was dumnfounded to read the following tweet;

@joe bloggs Atowneyes

Or the martin who when his child died went to the bar with his bit on the side instead of consoling his 'wife'

Even though the account was clearly fake, I continued following the same profile for the next couple of weeks in which the Author continued to post negative comments about me. When checking them against the real profiles of Brendan Clarke and a few others I suspected of involvement. The exact same words and tweets were posted on both the Yeronlyman and Joe Bloggs accounts. A photograph on the Yeronlyman profile was of Brendan Clarke, an Ardoyne native. I spoke to a number of family members and close friends about this individual and his background, as I didn't really know anything about him? Apart from the fact that he used to work for the Dole and after the Provisional IRA Ceasefire in 1994. Clarke reinvented himself as a supporter of the new Sinn Fein strategy, applied to join the Movement and duped people into believing he was a republican. I met the guy once in Longlands when I and another former POW were busy providing defensive measures against a possible Loyalist attack in the area. Apart from that, Clarke never entered my radar nor my life. According to many local Republicans, he was nothing more than a crawler who agreed with everything senior Republicans said to gain favour with them, in other words a Sycophant. As with any organisation, there are many people of this nature and the Republican Movement in Belfast was and remains no different. The Ceasefire increased this new breed of member, while long-serving Activists were sidelined in favour of those without military 'baggage'.

Clarke (second from left) sitting amongst his Sinn Fein/CRJ and CARA friends during a 'Community' Meeting, even though he hasn't lived in Ardoyne for years.

It seems Clarke fitted in well with his new-found friends because of his University education and given access to enhanced employment propects since 1994 to keep Republicans supportive of the developing Peace Process. As a result, Clarke was given the task of managing the North Belfast section of Community Restorative Justice (Ireland) based on the Antrim Road. The project lasted just under a year, with serious allegations against Clarke for financial irregularities. He soon reinvented himself again however, by becoming an Interface Worker in and around Ardoyne another money-making exercise embraced by Sinn Fein in Belfast led by Sean (Spike) Murray.

Loyalists Heightening Tensions as usual

Last Saturday July 20th, the Orange Order, bands and supporters held a march around the Shankill and Woodvale areas. They were prevented from walking passed the junction of the Woodvale Road and Twadell Avenue junction. The week before had witnessed intense riots and trouble and local residents in Greater Ardoyne where rightly concerned. As a resident, I attended the scene around 4pm with another member of the Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective (GARC) to observe the situation. We were in phone contact with other members just in case the situation got out of hand.

So-Called 'Visual Artist', Brendan Clarke

Anyhow, as I stood talking to a few friends I noticed the Sociopath, Brendan Clarke. The same 'Interface Worker' who had been attacking me on his Twitter and Facebook pages was standing joking with a number of Sinn Fein members. His vile comments about my young daughter on Twitter deserved I challenge him about his sick attitude. He's rarely seen in Ardoyne and I felt it the right time. I approached him and demanded to know, why he had written claims that I was a thief, tout and had used my deceased child against me? He responded by telling me to; 'Fuck Off you Waster'! Coming from such an individual after issuing such lies about me, it was only going to end one way. So I punched him twice before I was dragged to the ground by his Sinn Fein friends, who were unaware of his dangerous posts on the Internet about me. While being held down, Clarke laid a boot into my mouth before he too was pushed away.

Not wanting the dozens of locals to wrongly believe that the row was anything to do with GARC, RNU or anything to do with politics etc. I shouted to Clarke, the reasons why I hit him. His vile comments posted on the net. I also offered him to accompany me down the nearest alleyway to finish the matter like two men but he chose not to? I guess he prefers hiding behind computer screens rather than face people like a man. I stayed on at the scene for around ten minutes, hoping the Sycophant would take me up on the challenge but his bodily shakes told a different tale.

Given his job, that of an 'Interface Worker'. I wonder will his employers all of who are strong supporters of Sinn Fein disipline him in anyway? Or will they try and cover his tracks like they did with my Dad's wife Briege (Child Abuser) and the many others who dishonour the noble principles of Irish Republicanism on a daily basis? If so, it is up to each and everyone of us to expose these parasites for what they really are and who they prey on the working-class to reach the top!

Internment or Detention Without Trial is nothing new to Irish people and has been used every few decades throughout our Nation's occupation. Whenever Westminster chose to imprison and/or exile entire communities throughout the country. The Twentieth Century witnessed a number of phases of Internment in attempts to quell resistance to British Rule beginning after the 1916 Rising and ending in 1975. Internment conjurs up a collective legacy of a denial of justice, violence and brutality inflicted upon fellow citizens and communities. And so it was again on August 9th 1971, when hundreds of Republicans, Nationalists and Socialists were brutally dragged from their beds in dawn swoops by heavily-armed British soldiers and thrown into armoured vehicles and driven away to the cries of the mothers, wives and children.

Paddy McAdorey, Martin Meehan and Gerry Adams (1970)

In Ardoyne alone, riots took place across the district as news of mass arrests spread from home to home. The Provisional & Official sections of the IRA in the area mounted a number of military operations to keep the troops out. Gun battles between Republicans & the British were common-place throughout the day and the Woodvale Defence Association (WDA), forerunner of the UDA used Internment to force Catholic families from a dozens of homes in the Woodvale, Glenbryn and Ballysillan areas. They also wrecked and burnt hundreds of other homes that Protestants lived in Cranbrook, Farringdon Gardens and Velsheda to ensure Catholic families could not move into them. The British Army also went on the rampage in and around Ardoyne killing a Protestant householder, Sarah Worthington in Velsheda, claiming she had a rifle? To date, no member of the British Crown Forces has been made accountable for her murder. They were also firing wrecklessly into Etna Drive and Jamaica Street for hours from Glenbryn, until the IRA returned fire. During the ensuing battle, dedicated Volunteer, Paddy McAdorey was killed defending his community.

Catholic Families Forced from the Woodvale area

Internment had a massive impact on Nationalist Belfast and communities including Ardoyne responded in the only way they knew how, with riots, burnings and trouble. Political representation in the Six Counties during the Seventies was pretty grim and the SDLP, encouraged a general boycott of the Unionist and British Authorities. Although, they later, failing the electorate by embracing the system and helped criminalise those who supported the Civil Disobeience campaign. Over the next five years, many who believed in human rights campaigned for the prisoners, took to the streets, protested, refused to pay rent for council houses and marched. The British criminalised entire communities due to their support for the Internees to the extent that they gunned-down 14 marchers in Derry during an Anti-Internment Rally on January 31st, 1972. Branding them gunmen and bombers, a final act of injustice.

Throughout the remainder of the Seventies, most potential voters continued distrusting Political Parties and felt the only way to be heard was through violence. As such, young people in Ardoyne and other Nationalist areas marked the anniversary of Internment with Bonfires that always resulted in riots between youths and British Troops. Throughout the summer months, young people collected and gathered wood for a number of bonfires to be lit at Midnight on August 9. After the 1980 & 1981 Hunger-Strikes, both the Provisional IRA and INLA used riots as opportunities to cunduct operations against the British and RUC. A deadly mix of emotions that almost always left many within the district, shot and wounded by live rounds, Plastic Bullets and heavy batons. In one such riot, the RUC shot and killed young Bone resident, Seamus Duffy (15) in Dawson Street, off the New Lodge Road on August 8th, 1989.

Seamus Duffy (15) Murdered by the RUC

On the afternoon of August 8th 1988, a few comrades and I had been standing in the garden of 100. Brompton Park, the Sinn Fein Centre in Ardoyne. Enjoying the summer's weather, when we noticed a car slowing down and a man in the back looking suspiciously at us as it sped away. A short distance away, a lorry had just delivered drinks to the Highfield Social Club and was leaving for it's next job. A number of local youths standing outside Whelan's Shop in Etna Drive, were sharing a yarn. When a UVF man alighted from the sunroof of the car armed with an automatic rifle and directed his fire at them. As they dived for cover, eighteen year-old, Seamus Morris from Highbury Gardens. His younger brother, Conor and a friend luckily survived. As chaos reigned, the car attempted to make good it's escape but found it's way blocked by the same lorry and was forced to mount the footpath. The lorry driver and his helper had courageously decided to ram the getaway car. As it drove up the kerb, the gunman again opened fire into the cab of the lorry and killed it's passenger, Peter Dolan (32) from West Belfast.

Seamus Morris (18) Murdered by the UVF

I didn't know Seamus well, we attended different Schools. However, he was a very nice person and never passed you by without a hello. He was known locally as a quiet fella, very intelligent and had worked in the Civil Service. As with nearly everyone killed from the locality by Loyalists, Seamus had absolutly no connection to Republicanism and was clearly a victim of a random sectarian shooting. The two murders were eventually admitted by the Protesstant Action Force (PAF), a cover-name for the UVF. The death of Seamus had a devastating impact on his family and his Mother contracted cancer soon afterwards and died four years later. His Dad never recovered and couldn't even speak about his son. Therefore, I'm proud to announce on this Blog that on his and Peter's 25th anniversary a Plague will be unveiled outside Whelan's Shop on August Sunday 11th, August at 1pm. The details of which I publish below. I would encourage everyone to please attend and show solidarity with both families.

In another event to mark Internment, the Anti-Internment League has organised a large march which will leave Ardoyne Avenue at 6pm on Friday 9th, August. The parade will proceed down the Oldpark Road, Rosepenna Street, Cliftonville Road, Antrim Road, New Lodge Road, North Queen Street, Donegall Street, Royal Avenue, up Castle Street onto Divis Street where it will meet other marchers and bands. The march will then proceed up the Falls Road, Anderstown Road and into the Busy Bee, where a Rally will be held to recall those incarcerated between 1971 and 1975. It will also focus on Political Prisoners currently held behind bars like Martin Corey and others Interned by Remand. Where POWs' can be held up to 3 years before trial. The march has been endorsed by a number of Republican Political Groups, such as the Irish Republican Socialist Party (IRSP), Republican Network for Unity (RNU), Eirigi, the 1916 Societies and the 32 County Sovereignty Movement. Once again, I would ask anyone with an interest in Human Rights to please attend the above march and demonstrate your opposition to Internment.

Just after 6pm yesterday, thousands of Ex-Internees, Former POWs', Relatives, Republican Activists, Socialists, Civil Rights Advocates, Campaign Groups, Political groups & Parties marched along Ardoyne Avenue and onto the Oldpark Road. On their way to commemorate the unjust imprisonment of Irish citizens from 1971 through the present day by the British & Stormont Governments.

Anti-Internment March in North Queen St.

As one of those proud participants involved in the march, it was very uplifting to witness the huge numbers of people from across the city and beyond. As the son of the last Internee released in December, 1975, I was very proud to walk beside decent people demonstrating against a terrible policy which split thousands of families apart and caused much Conflict in our Country. Although, it was also sad to see the Bloody Sunday Families, Ballymurphy Families, Martin Corey Campaigners and the relatives of current POWs' held on Internment by Remand in MagHaberry Gaol!

Relatives of Current Interned POWs'

I often hear Constitutional Republicans claiming that us Traditional Republicans are merely 'Micro-Groups with no support or analysis'. If yesterday evening's Anti-Internment march proved one thing, it is that the above claims are clearly misleading and used in a manner that distorts the truth. The hard reality is far different and was witnessed by the thousands of onlookers who cheered and clapped as we passed by their homes and businesses on the long walk to Andersontown, where we held the rally. Constitutional Republicanism may well have political support to chart a way forward but not in the levels it believes and Gerry Adams' comments on twitter last night in response to our march was evidence of that delusion. Adams claimed;"Sectarianism in evidence in Bfast 2night has 2 b confronted.Stupidity masquerading as Republicanism is mirror reflection of unionist bigotry". Now forgive me readers, but did I not above list a host of collective groups of genuine Irish Republicans, Socialists & Campaigners as partaking in the march? I did, but Adams believes that we were; 'Stupidity masquerading as Republicanism'? he added further that we were a, 'Mirror Reflection of Unionist Bigotry'? Maybe I'm wrong but has he actually lost the plot? He sounds like former Workers Party Leader, Proinsias De Rossa. Then again, his Party resembles the worst remnant of the Sticks these days. Given their determination to felon-set Dissenting Republicans.

A section of the huge march

I don't wish to focus on the political negativity aspired to by Provisional Sinn Fein. I'd prefer to give readers an illustration of just how positive the Anti-Internment March was yesterday. It was wrongly billed as a 'Dissident March by the Irish News, which did a disservice to the Organising Committee, Stewards and Participants who despite extreme provocation from Loyalist Extremists, delaying tactics by the Unreformed RUC and blatant ignorance from SF aligned Ex-POW groups was by and large disciplined and successful.

RUC/PSNI Blocking Anti-Internment March

As for the thugs who attempted to prevent our march through Belfast last night, they failed miserably and only succeeded in demonstrating just how bigoted their hatred for Catholics, Nationalists and Republicans runs through their veins. The March fully succeeded in commemorating the anniversary of Internment and continued injustices in British occupied Ireland! Yesterdays parade and rally will undoubtedly be the first of many Anti-Internment Events each and every August and my praise goes to everyone involved, Go Raibh Mhaith Agaibh!

Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band @ Carrickhill

On Sunday August 25th, the Annual Henry-Joy McCracken Commemoration Parade will take place. Organised by the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band and the Republican Network for Unity (RNU), participants and bands are asked to assemble outside the Glenpark Social Club at 2pm. With the parade leaving Ardoyne Avenue at 3pm sharp.

Henry-Joy Commemoration Parade marching along Clifton Street, August 2012

With previous Commemorations to honour Henry-Joy, who is buried in Clifton Street Cemetery. The Ardoyne Republican Blog, advertised last years march, appealing for supporters to come along. Consequently DUP MLA, Nelson McCausland used his Blog, Nelson's View to create as much controversy about the march as he could. As a result, crowds of Loyalist bigots gathered at Carlise Circus around the same time that the Henry-Joy parade left Duncairn Parade. Within minutes, they attacked the RUC/PSNI with bricks, bottles and whatever else they could throw. The rioters also damaged a Senior Citizens' Home at the bottom of the Crumlin Road and Carlise House, where vunerable adults live. A number of cars belonging to workers at both properties were also wrecked.

Loyalist Riot against Henry-Joy Commemoration March, August 2012

As the Henry-Joy march entered Clifton Street, the Loyalist mob attempted to block the route but were prevented by the Peelers, who blocked them from getting further down the road. Surprisingly, a number of senior UVF figures including, Winkie Irvine stood on the balcony of the Orange Hall directly facing Henry Place. Where they took hundreds of photographs and video footage of the march. A number of marchers said they were hit with golf balls thrown from the balcony. Regrettably, some Nationalist youths who had followed the the march on the footpath responded by retaliating. At the junction of the Westlink, they voluntarily stopped playing music and restricted themselves to a single drumbeat. In a mark of respect to the Orange tradition and Indian Community Centre next door.

UVF Observers in Clifton Street Orange Hall, August 2012

As last year's parade turned into Henry Place. The Loyalist mob intensified their rioting in the hope that march participants would get hurt, a number were struck but luckily not badly injured. As it entered the small graveyard, Loyalists broke into Carlisle House, where they smashed cars belonging to workers and threw missiles into the cemetery. Some marchers were again hurt but the commemoration continued unimpeded. After honouring the Irish Patriot, RNU asked marchers and supporters not to allow themselves be provoked by Loyalist rioters nor the RUC/PSNI TSGs' and to leave the Cemetery peacefully. In spite of the ending of our commemoration, the riots lasted a further three nights. Proof if any was needed that the march had little to do with Unionist anger. Rather it seemed more plausible that the UVF had been flexing its muscles yet again. Unionist Politicians subsequently claimed that republicans had held the parade to provoke a loyalist reaction.

This August, the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band applied to the Parades Commission for another Commemoration. It was immediately classed as sensitive by the Commissioners, in spite of past parades not having determinations issued against them. On August 13th, the Commission agreed to impose a number of restrictions on this year's Commemoration. The determination prevents the march from parading past the junction of North Queen Street & Victoria Parade. It is also not permitted to parade into the Carrickhill community, even though no action was taken by the same Commission after the band marched through the district in late February. Unlike previous marches, the parade will not be able to walk along Clifton Street and into Henry Place. The sensible and most direct route to the Cemetery. Instead it has been rerouted up Victoria Parade, Carilse Road and then Henry Place. In spite of, that these three streets are pretty narrow and not conducive to a large march with seven flute bands and over 500 supporters. Whereas, North Queen Street and Clifton Street are much wider and regularly hold similar parades.

Given the fact that the first Henry-Joy McCracken Commemoration parade was not opposed by anyone and last year's was attacked by Loyalist Thugs who continued rioting for three successive nights. It is quite ironic that this August's march is being opposed by two Unionist groups, who filed for separate protests to be held in Clifton Street. The Struggle Greater Concerned Residents Group and Concerned Residents Group only materialised in recent weeks. In order to protest against the Anti-Internment League's march through Belfast. They were given permission by the Commission to stage protests in Royal Avenue. Almost immediately, serious rioting ensued in the area to prevent the march from entering the City Centre. George Hamilton, a senior member of the RUC/PSNI later claimed; 'none of the loyalist protest groups seemed to show any leadership to stop the violence and were clearly intent on engaging in violence'. Despite Hamilton's statement, the Commission has incredibly allowed both groups to again protest against the Henry-Joy parade.

Loyalist Riot against Anti-Internment Parade

Given that the the town of Belfast played such an crucial role in the Irish Freedom Struggle. Where it gave birth to the Irish Republican political idealogy, the United Irish Society was born. Wolfe Tone, Henry-Joy and others dedicated themselves to; 'Breaking The Connection With England'. It is surprising no that Republican Organisations or Political Parties never honoured McCracken at his final resting place in Clifton Street Cemetery. Possibly due to Belfast being also a city, where Unionism is very strong? Maybe they were/are fearful of a violent reaction as we encountered last year to such an important event?

Therefore, it is to the credit of the Republican Network for Unity (RNU) and the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band have for the past few years commemorated such an influential Irish Revolutionary like, McCracken is properly commemorated after two Centuries. It is with that message that I urge all Republican Groups, Parties and Independents to attend next Sunday's march. To demonstrate that the legacy of the 1798 Rising is to end our Nation's territorial, political and economic occupation. Nothing less is acceptable and the Struggle to achieve those aims will continue!

Sunday's Henry-Joy McCracken Commemoration Parade ended earlier than wished, due to illogical restrictions placed upon the intended route by the hugely discredited Parades Commission. According to the Commission, the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band and Sinn Fein were the only two organisations who made any submissions to it concerning the actual march. Although, it's obvious that they also were given 'advice' from the Political Police. It is surprising the parade was not permitted to march along Clifton Street after all, it was not the Republican Network for Unity (RNU) nor Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band who engaged in serious violence last year but Loyalist Thugs led by the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF).

Equality Banner

Did the Parades Commission capitulate to three nights of thuggery, rioting and sectarianism from the UVF instead of facing it down? Of course they did. How commemorating an influential Irish Patriot like Henry-Joy is treated as a threat to anyone is beyond my thinking. Other important questions that also need answering are, who spoke to the PC on behalf of S/F and did they object to the march or not?

Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band Colour-Party Proudly Marching

In spite of the restrictions issued by the Commission, the Commemoration Parade left Ardoyne Avenue at 3pm on Sunday 25th August. En route to Henry-Joy's final resting place in Clifton Street Cemetery. A number of bands failed to arrive in time for the departure of the march, due to missing the early boat from Scotland. Two bands, the Oglach John Brady Memorial Flute Band from Strabane, County Tyrone and the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band from Ardoyne proudly took part. Alongside Scottish friends, comrades from the IRSP, Belfast 32CSM, Sean MacDiarmada Society and others. RNU Activists from Cork, Dublin, Dundalk, Strabane, South Down, Derry and Belfast marched to honour McCracken. The number of participants increased as the parade made it's way down the Oldpark Road, Rosepenna Street, Ciftonville and New Lodge Roads.

Henry-Joy Band Marching down the New Lodge Road

When the parade reached the junction of the New Lodge Road and North Queen Street, as the RUC/PSNI blocked the road with Land-Rovers beyond Victoria Parade. The organisers stopped for a short time before marching the short distance to the end of Victoria Pde. Where RNU Activists made a line across the road, the Henry-Joy Republican Flute Band played it's last tune before inviting the Oglach John Brady Memorial Band to finish. Both bands received thunderous applause from those who marched the route.

RUC/PSNI Blocking Henry-Joy Parade, North Queen Street

RNU's National Chairperson, Gary McNally addressed the hundreds assembled. He explained the reasons behind why the parade could not proceed; 'Our march has been effectively strangled by the DUP, Orange Order, UVF, S/F and the Parades Commission.This so called re-route was no more than a polite means of banning our march, an appalling capitulation to the dark forces of Organism Just as they put a noose around the neck of Henry Joy they have put a noose around the neck of those who wish to commemorate him'. The former Blanketman added; 'Comrades it would be a great insult to the proud memory of the United Irishmen if we were to accept this decision and walk with our heads down in such a shameful manner.As such, we now must unfortunately ask you to disassemble at this point bearing in mind that we have been physically prevented from getting to the grave of Henry Joy. There is no shared space in Belfast when it comes to expressing genuine republican opinions such as ours'.

RUC/PSNI Preventing Access to Henry Place

What was not surprising about this year's parade, was the intolerance of those who actively opposed the commemoration for Henry-Joy McCracken. The fear of genuine Irish Republicanism as expressed with discipline during the recent Anti-Internment March and such dignity again demonstrated on Sunday. Republicanism is again on the march in Belfast and it can only go forward, as the United Irishmen desired in the 1790's. No matter what principles self-serving Politicians ditch, the Struggle for Territorial, Political, Social and Economic freedom in Ireland will persevere.

RUC/PSNI Blocking Clifton Street Cemetery

On August 9th 2013, thousands of Irish Republicans joined together to highlight the ongoing Internment of POWs' and to commemorate those men & women held in Armagh, Crumlin Road and Long Kesh between 1971 - 1975. The huge numbers at the march was very heartening to witness and be part of and the unity of purpose experienced by all made a massive statement. I'm aware that S/F, Britain, the Media and Unionism attempted to water down the message of the march through lies, propaganda and smears. However, everyone who attended and watched know that the only issue in the minds of all was to demonstrate our opposition to the unjust use of Internment against Irish citizens.

Even though, they wheeled-out the usual Propagandists with their poison pens to issue lies against the Anti-Internment League and it's march. They not only failed to demonise the organisers, bands and marchers but also ignored the ongoing Internment of Lurgan Republican, Martin Corey. Who has been inside for over three years under the orders of successive British Secretaries of State. Prior to his arrest in 2010, Martin had already served 18 years in Long Kesh for IRA Activities. As with Marion Price, Martin's Life Sentence was revoked by the British & Stormont Governments. Thankfully, Marion is now free but her recent incarceration was costly to her health.

Just this past Friday, the family of Ardoyne POW, Thomas (Ta) McWilliams was informed that his Life Sentence had like Martin Corey been revoked by the British Government. The respected Republican, had already served a lengthy prison sentence in the H-Blocks for IRA Activities. Since his political arrest last July by the RUC/PSNI, Ta has been held against his will on Roe 3. Separated from his Partner, Patricia, children and extended family. Over the past year, the British-Sponsored Public Prosecution Service (PPS) has did it's utmost to convict him of spurious charges but all their attempts have failed, due to no evidence. It is no coincidence that the 'charges' against him were about to be challenged in Court. Now, Ireland's enemies have opted to return him to prison on the grounds of his Life Sentence. Ensuring that he will now be held indefinitely at the 'mercy' of the British 'Judicial' System.

Having grown-up and spending time behind bars with Ta, I've no doubt he'll take his Internment as part and parcel of the Imperialist occupation of this part of Ireland. He is a very strong character and dedicated Republican. Although as a committed family-man, his concern will be for Patricia, his children and wider family. What the future holds, is anyone's guess. Sadly, as in Martin Corey's situation he could spend the next few years in Maghaberry. Unless that is, the numbers who turned out in Belfast against this type of injustice mobilise and demand his freedom and that of other Republicans also Interned! Without such a mobilisation, many more Irish citizens will be arrested, detained and incarcerated in British Prisons!

It's not good enough to stand on the sidelines and remain silent whenever gross injustices against our fellow citizens take place. One must stand on the side of justice and advocate for the Human Rights of Ta, Martin and other POWs' held in Maghaberry. The situation of Michael Campbell from County Louth, currently imprisoned in Lithuania is yet another dubious case. As 'evidence' from British Intelligence Agents in MI6 ensured he was convicted. Michael's Appeal is due shortly and in the meantime he should be allowed to serve his sentence back to Ireland. .

If anyone wishes to send Ta McWilliams solidarity greetings to help and boost his morale. Please use the address below;

Ta McWilliams

Republican Prisoner

Roe 3, Maghaberry Gaol,

17 Old Road

Ballinderry Upper

Lisburn

County Antrim

BT28 2PT.

Throughout the recent Conflict, Britain and her Agents of Death regularly targeted and assassinated Republicans and Political Activists.in attempts to defeat resistance to it's Occupation. The most blatant use of this was during the 1980 and 1981Hunger-Strikes. When seven Republican Prisoners in Long Kesh and three in Armagh Gaol embarked on a collective Hunger-Strike to have Political Status restored. IRSP Leaders, Miriam Daly, Ronnie Bunting and Noel Little were killed by British Intelligence Agents in Belfast. Irish Independence Party Leader, John Turnley was also murdered in Carnlough. While former Mid-Ulster MP, Bernadette McAliskey and her husband were badly injured at their Coalisalnd home in County Tyrone. All those shot were influential members of the National H-Block Committee, an important support group which advocated on behalf of the Protesting Prisoners.

Miriam Daly (IRSP)

After the British reneged on a proposed deal and murderous response to Political Activism. A second Strike was inevitable that began on March 1st, 1981. Given Britain's in the Six Counties, it was no surprise that the long-suffering POWs' chose to nominate their former Leader and Hunger-Striker, Bobby Sands to contest the Fermanagh/South Tyrone By-Election. After the sudden death of the sitting MP, Frank Maguire. Sands was successfully elected with over 30,000 votes on April 9th, 1981. Even though Sands won, the British Government under the Tyrant, Maggie Thacher ignored his victory and refused to grant him and his comrades Political Status. Furthermore, she had Westminster legislate against other Hunger-Strikers standing in future elections through the 'Representation of the People Act'. Volunteer. Bobby Sands MP, tragically died a month later and was followed by nine of his brave comrades. His vacant seat was subsequently won by his Election Agent, Owen Carron. A number of other Hunger-Strikers also stood for election during the 1981 Irish General Election that June with Kieran Doherty winning a seat in Cavan/Monaghan and Paddy Agnew taking his native Louth. The election of Doherty and Agnew ensured that the outgoing Fianna Fail Administration lost control of the Government. Outgoing Taoiseach, Charles Haughey had played politics with the two Strikes but his uncaring attitude came back to bite him.

Within days of the ending of the Hunger-Strike, a UDA Gang shot and killed former Internee and Belfast City Councillor, Larry Kennedy in Ardoyne. Larry had been a strong supporter of the POWs' and Hunger-Strikers. Also shot during the attack was, Micky Lagan who had bravely tried to prevent the Gunmen from entering the Shamrock Social Club. Micky led the local Ambulance Service throughout the darkest days of the Seventies. Larry was a popular figure in the area and was responsible for helping old and young residents alike. He had stood on an Anti-H-Block ticket and like two IRSP members was elected to the City Council in 1981. In spite of Kennedy's murder and the deliberate attacks on senior H-Block & Armagh Activists. The election bug spread throughout Belfast and beyond.

Councillor. Larry Kennedy

Since then, more Working-Class Champions have been elected to various Chambers throughout the Country. For much of the Eighties while disadvantaged communities suffered under the crass economic policies of Imperialism. Some brave people came to the fore and challenged the Status-Quo and exposed the growing crimes against 99% of the populace. Genuine Socialists, Republicans and Democrats played a huge role in giving expression to the voiceless. The territorial, social and economic problems facing the Irish people were laid bare. As was Partition, Occupation and ongoing Oppression in the Six Counties.

Even with a strong socialist political tradition prevalent in Ireland for centuries and our hospitable and helpful culture. Most of Ireland's Political Parties have moved away from these core principles and retreated to the middle. Where they feel more comfortable and can appeal to the Middle-Class for support, votes and funds. It doesn't seem to matter, how many of our fellow citizens live in relative poverty, have little prospects of decent employment, education and a nice home. Challenging capitalist economics is not popular and does not to win votes in elections. Capitalism is constantly in crisis and it is the ordinary person who suffers its negative effects. How can Republicans like myself help change the political dynamic of our communities to benefit everyone and not just the few? What is needed to fundamentally change the course of history as the Hunger-Strikers did in 1981? Can socialist politics bring that change we all badly need in Ireland in the 21st Century?

The examples of courageous Blanketmen & Women, Relative Actions Committees, National H-Block/Armagh Committee. As well as, the recent Anti-Internment March in Belfast. Stand as not only as shining illustrations of unity. They also demonstrated what can be achieved when Republicans unite in a common cause. Each and every group represented on the march were responsible for the huge numbers who took to the streets. They were also behind the disciplined organisation of the parade. Based on the positiveness of the march, no Group or Party had it's Independence or ideology compromised or weakened in anyway. Obviously there are differences between RSF, IRSP, 32CSM, Eirigi, RNU, 1916 Societies and Independents. Although, I welcome those differences and have no problem with what each respective Party believes. Based on the above, there should be no conceivable reason why those who believe in a united democratic, socialist Irish Republic cannot come together under an independent Chairperson over the next few months.Where serious discussions surrounding forthcoming elections can take place with respect at its central theme.

In the last Council Elections for Belfast, the Irish Republican Socialist Party (IRSP) and Eirigi stood. To the best of my knowledge there were no discussions between both Parties about how best to represent the communities they desired. Which was problematic as one Candidate from each Party was standing in the same Constituency. Predictably, the votes were spilt and the outcome misrepresented the true political narrative in that particular area. I believe it is not presumptive of me to suggest that had both Parties spoke about their objectives something better could have been achieved. Had I lived in one of those districts at that time, I would have had a dilemma about who to cast my vote for? If a discussion does takes place and a proper template agreed by everyone concerned in the run-up to the 2015 Council Elections in the North. We can all have confidence that at least core Republican principles will be at the forefront of Candidates Campaigns. Agreement will also help us all to properly challenge the Parties who have failed the Irish Working-Class. After all, the failure of Constitutional Parties to end the decades of disadvantage for our communities needs to come to an end.

Social Security staff across Belfast urged to refuse to implement Tory/Stormont cuts. As part of the wider campaign against the savage benefits cuts proposed in the looming ‘Welfare Reform Bill’, Republican Network for Unity’s ‘Nora Connolly Cumann’ today entered ‘Jobs and Benefits’ offices across Belfast and distributed leaflets to staff urging them to play their part in resisting the Tory/Stormont attacks.

Republicans Inside the Rathcoole Office

The leaflets distributed spelt out exactly how the forthcoming ‘Welfare Reform Bill’ will spell job losses for front line staff who work in ‘Jobs & Benefits’. It also explains how those who manage to hold on to their jobs will be expected by the state to feel the brunt of working class frustrations, as over £600 million a year is taken from the pockets of the most vulnerable here.

R.N.U. Activists Outside the Shankill Offices this week

Workers at all sites accepted the leaflets and RNU activists were encouraged by the clear interest shown by those who left their desks to read our message which stated clearly …”Front line Social Security staff are vital in the implementation of the Welfare Reform Bill, without your co-operation cuts cannot happen.”

The ‘Welfare Reform Bill’ if implemented promises to plunge tens of thousands of families here into further financial despair by introducing a cap on household benefits, extending draconian eligibility criteria into what is currently the DLA application process as well as introducing a ‘Bedroom tax’ which is set to force families out of long term homes or face the prospect of crushing poverty rates.

Shankill Republicans Commemorating Wolfe Tone (1930's)

RNU today brought a message to both Protestant and Catholic workers, that there is more which joins us than divides us, that a united class based approach is now required to defeat a common enemy. The very essence of Irish Republicanism.

For more information about the Republican Network for Unity and it's Campaigns, please click on the following link; Republican Network for Unity (RNU)

In a recent Documentary broadcast on the BBC enitled; Petrol Bombs & Peace'. The programme mainly focused on Loyalist Flute Band, 'The Pride of Ardoyne' (P.O.A.) from nearby, Glenbryn. It was an attempt by band members to portray themselves as Non-Sectarian but failed miserably. As a number of members were witnessed partaking in various activities which could only be described as sectarian and racist. Including a Bonfire and the burning of the Irish National Flag. Within weeks of the broadcast, one of those featured, Keith Tully Tweeted that he would like all those attending the Ardoyne Fleadh Cheoil to be killed by a huge bomb. Tully has since denied sending the tweet, claiming his phone had been left by him on a bus and someone else wrote it, likely yarn I know a chairde!

P.O.A. Marching through Greater Ardoyne

The Ardoyne Republican Blog has mentioned the real raison d'etre of sectarian bands such as the POA band on a number of occasions in the past few years, given it's links to the Ulster Volunteer Force (U.V.F.) A murderous sectarian killer Gang responsible for the deaths of scores of Ardoyne residents and others from surrounding Nationalist districts throughout the recent Conflict. The Pride of Ardoyne Flute Band was established in 1972 by UVF man, William Hanna. Who was later killed by the SAS and RUC when he and a friend unwittingly walked into a pre-planned and brutal ambush where three IRA Volunteers, Dinny Brown, Jackie Mailey and Jim Mulvenna were also killed in June, 1978. Hanna's friend was badly wounded but survived.

UVF Gunmen at Robinson Mural in the Woodvale

The Band regularly takes part in a multitude of triumphalist organised by a succession of Loyal Orders through the Greater Ardoyne community, against the wishes of the majority of local residents. In spite of years of opposition, the POA continue to ignore peoples wishes and march away. Many of it's members use Twitter to state, 'Fuck Talk - We Walk; when referring to calls for talks. It refuses to even sit-down and engage in dialogue with residents despite their legitimate views. In response, the POA uses the Internet particularly Social Media Websites and Discussion Forums to further insult Nationalists. Upon reading the band's own website, much of it's content is to promote the UVF. Whilst it also commemorates UVF Killer, Brian Robinson who was gunned down by the British Army minutes after he murdered innocent Ardoyne man, Paddy McKenna in September, 1989. The UVF man was also a senior member of the Orange Order and is honoured every year by the UVF and POA in the Woodvale. The band also openly celebrate other UVF members including, Sam Rockett killed during a UDA feud in 2000 and Billy McClure killed by the IPLO in 1991.

The most laughable expression from the P.O.A. recently has been it's claim that they cannot 'return home' due to the ban on the Twelfth march from entering the Greater Ardoyne area. The reality is that no-one has prevented individuals from the Band and the Orange Order going back home. What is banned is the sectarian march dressed-up as an expression of culture. The vast majority of residents in the Woodvale area want nothing to do with these parades as they cause nothing but trouble.

In the latest example of how racist and bigoted the POA is, can be viewed below in a clip uploaded to YouTube by the band itself. The tune played is the very offensive 'Famine Song', which is used to demonise Irish emigrants forced to move to Scotland during the Great Hunger when millions of Irish people died due to the lack of food given by the British Government. The song is also used in a derogratry manner by a number of Loyalist Flute Bands across the North. To view the Pride of Ardoyne insulting every Irish citizen, please click on the following link;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pS3aSGWVQ-s

Like many Ardoyne residents, I received a leaflet tonight containing the following photo and text; It seems that once again the North Belfast News has put profit before facts! Ever since it's formation, the N.B.N. operates a particular political agenda, regardless of the community it is supposed to support. The McDonnell Clann should have been spoken to prior to publication of last week's erroneous article.

Earlier this evening, the N.B.N. again printed an associated story about Hunter again and once again failed to consult the McDonnell's? Is it any wonder why not so many buy the Paper anymore?

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North Belfast News'"Death threat son".

Who is the real victim?

A ridiculous headline in the North Belfast News on Saturday 21st September.

This self-styled 'Community Newspaper' printed a Front Page story claiming that local man, Stephen Hunter was the victim of 'Dissident Republican Threats' . Following investigation by local Community Representatives, all Republican Groups in the area have firmly refuted that any such threat exists.

Tucker McDonnell in Intensive Care

Furthermore, Stephen Hunter alleged that his car was damaged following 'an altercation' at the weekend, despite the fact he has no record of any criminal damage.

What has not been highlighted is the fact that Stephen Hunter has been charged (and freed) on Police Bail for G.B.H. With Intent. The Charges he faces, arise from an unprovoked and vicious attack on local Businessman, Thomas (Tucker) McDonnell who employs 48 people in the Ardoyne area. The vicious attack is alleged to have been launched by Hunter on Sunday 15th September. As a result of this brutal assault, Thomas McDonnell received injuries which left him fighting for his life. It is clear that the North Belfast News had no interest in conducting the most basic Journalistic investigation. Rather they ran a story to protect the Culprit of a vicious and Anti-Social attack. One needs to ask why they felt the need to do this?

Tucker, one week after the assault

To date, the North Belfast News has not contacted the McDonnell Family to ask them anything about this incident. We as members of this community and Family of a GBH victim demand a retraction from the North Belfast News and an apology for Thomas.

The McDonnell Family, Ardoyne.

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Originally formed in 2006 as a Pressure Group of former Republican P.O.W.s' opposed to the British Police in Ireland. The Republican Network for Unity re-organised as a political entity in 2008, in line with the 1916 Proclamation and 1919 Declaration of Independence both of which were democratically endorsed by the Irish people. Earlier this year, at our 2013 Árd Fheis(Annual Conference) the membership of the Network voted overwhelmingly in favour of an Árd Comhairle (National Executive) motion to constitute R.N.U. as a Revolutionary Political Party.

2013 RNU Ard Fheis

Over the last few months, further protracted discussions took place between various Cumainn (Branches) and An Árd Chomhairle regarding how best to represent working-class communities across Ireland now that R.N.U. is a Revolutionary Party. Last week, the Party announced that two Candidates had been nominated to contest the forthcoming Council Elections in Belfast. The R.N.U. statement also confirmed that it would stand Candidates in the Twenty Six Counties.

Background to R.N.U. Candidates:

Sammy destroying Cocaine & Methodrone in 2010

Sammy Cussick (41) has been a lifelong Socialist and Republican Activist, originally from Ardoyne who now resides in the Cliftonville area with his wife and five daughters. He has campaigned vigorously on residents, housing and drug abuse as well as, the National Question.

A former member of the Greater Ardoyne Residents Collective (GARC), Sammy is currently active within the North Queen Street and Carrickhill Residents Groups that campaign against sectarian marches through both communities.

Sammy is also a dedicated Anti-Drugs Activist and helped Concerned Families Against Drugs’ (CFAD) and RNU in the safe disposal of tens of thousands of pounds worth of narcotics, taken from Drug Gangs in the greater Belfast area.

He remains pretty active within the North Belfast Civil Rights Association tackling discrimination and homelessness in North Belfast. In particular, he has campaigned for adequate Social Housing on the large Girdwood Barracks site.

Finally, Sammy describes himself as a typical North Belfast Republican, a committed family man with a passion for making his locality a better place to live. He will be standing for the Oldpark Electoral Area.

Tommy Doherty, RNU Youth Officer

Tommy Doherty (23) is a dedicated Republican Activist and RNU's Youth Officer. In recent years, he has worked as a ‘Youth and Peer Educator’ for Republican Ex-Prisoner support group Tar Anall, for whom he delivered it's ‘Equality Program’ to a host of many Youth Centres and Clubs around Belfast.

Outside of Tar Anall, Tommy has worked for a variety of Community Projects and Groups in the Lower Falls area. A founding member of the Beechmount Residents Collective, he also Volunteer's for the Blackie Centre in his area. Alongside the Challenge for Youth with the Falls Women's Centre. Tommy won an Excellence Award for his positive contribution to his native Beechmount.

Tommy is currently studying in Youth Work and Conflict Resolution to understand the need, challenges and requirements for young people in deprived areas across West Belfast. He is acutely aware of the demands and frustrations of all generations living within the Lower Falls district.

The Republican Network for Unity believe and hope that in contesting council elections in North & West Belfast, we can further establish our connections with the working class communities there, bringing with us an alternative Republican and Socialist message which can lead to greater empowerment of ordinary people who live there.

In line with the principles of Revolutionary Republicanism, RNU hope to play our part in the re-claming of these areas which have for too long lay neglected by the Constitutional Parties which claim to represent them.

Sammy and Tommy agree that they will bring an Alternative Republican Voice to local politics tied neither to petty sectarian agendas nor the requirements of a failing project in Stormont, but based upon the principles of Revolutionary Irish Republicanism and the interests of Working-Class people.

To conduct both election Campaigns, the Republican Network Unity will of course require much needed finance to provide publicity, literature, posters and transport etc. Donations can be made through our PayPal account that can be accessed by clicking on R.N.U. Logo at the top right-hand corner of this blog. All funds will be greatly appreciated.

It will be six long years next month that my father, Volunteer. Martin Meehan passed away and was buried in his native Belfast. Throughout his life, Martin was famous for his dedication to Irish Republicanism and his local community in Ardoyne. At the time of his sudden death in 2007, Dad was one of the longest-serving IRA members' in Belfast, having volunteered in 1965. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he achieved legendary status as a fearless Soldier. A Socialist, he was also a life-long Activist with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU).

Martin pictured after his escape from Crumlin Road Gaol in 1971

From 1968 onwards, Martin defended Ardoyne against the RUC, British Army and Unionist Death Squads who murdered and terrorised our community in the name of the English Crown. Martin was a legendary Volunteer who paid dearly for his activism. He spent over eighteen years behind bars in a variety of Gaols across Ireland. He successfully escaped from Crumlin Road Prison in December, 1971 and became one of the Most Wanted men in Ireland. Martin operated throughout Belfast, South Armagh, Louth and Derry City where he convinced many men and women to join the fight against imperialism. He also embarked on two separate Hunger-Strikes, one to achieve better conditions for his fellow POWs' in Long Kesh and the second to prove his innocence in 1980. After he was framed by the British Authorities with help from an Informer. His health was badly affected by both Strikes and he suffered health complications for the remainder of his life. Inside Dad was committed to keeping up the morale of his imprisoned comrades and as with other aspects of his life, he did so with gusto.

Martin Commemorating Fallen Republicans

Since 2007, many within Ardoyne had approached the Meehan Clann wishing to organise a Commemoration for my Dad. Provisional Sinn Fein did hold one the year after his untimely death and the family were fine with that, after all he was a Party member at the time of his death. Although, there was a burning issue of brutality committed by his wife Briege against our sister, Mary back in 1979 and 1980. At the time, Briege was an elected Councillor in Newtownabbey for Sinn Fein. Therefore, our family decided to focus our attention on Mary, rather than any commemorations. She had just returned from England where she had been living for a number of years with her children and was in the process of having Briege charged with serious crimes against her. As everyone now knows, Briege was expelled from the Party and after lengthy legal proceedings, admitted in a Belfast Court of brutalising Mary as a ten year-old girl. With Court Briege exposed as a Child-Abuser. The Meehan's are now in a better position to organise a decent Commemoration for our Dad with help from a number of friends and comrades.

Over the past fifteen years, many changes have occurred within Irish Republicanism that has led to serious differences in ideology. Ardoyne has always been an important part of the struggle to achieve a 32 County Democratic Socialist Republic. Hence organisers of next month's commemoration have in conjunction with the Meehan Family announce that on Sunday 3rd November, an Independent Commemoration will take place in Ardoyne to honour Volunteer. Martin Meehan. Attendees are asked to assemble at 2pm that afternoon in Ardoyne Avenue outside the Shamrock Social Club. We wish to make the tribute as inclusive as possible and ensure everyone can pay their respects to one of Ireland's greatest Soldiers.

I last wrote about Thomas Begley, a young Ardoyne Volunteer in 2010. In the last few weeks, his name has once again hit the headlines in the North's Media in relation to his tragic death on 23rd October, 1993. In which many Journalists and Unionist Politicians have attempted to demonise his memory for cheap point-scoring. I deeply sympathise with the relatives of all those who died during the IRA attack on the UDA Headquaters in 1993 and that includes the Begley family from Ardoyne. I have never been one to glorify War or it's terrible consequences and I won't start now. Although, what I will say is that what took place that day should never have happened but I firmly believe that it was a result of a premature explosion and those killed were not in anyway targeted.

Óglach. Thomas (Bootsy) Begley

I know my words are little consolation to the victims families but sadly I cannot turn the clock back. Another of those badly injured was Sean Kelly also from Ardoyne. After his release from Long Kesh in 2000, Sean testified that he deeply regretted the deaths of so many in the explosion. He also told a local Newspaper that the actual target of the Volunteers that day, was the UDA Office and it's members who believed to have been inside above Frizzell's Fish Shop.

In the months before Thomas' death, Loyalist Paramilitaries had been involved in a sustained terror Campaign against the Catholic/Nationalist and Republican community throughout Belfast and beyond. The same groups had been well-informed and armed by British Military Intelligence, RUC Special Branch and MI5 to increase their activities in a bid to terrorise people across the Six Counties. As a result, the bring the Provisional IRA were put under pressure by it's supporters to retaliate against these gangs.

At the time, I was serving a lengthy prison sentence in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh for Republican activities. Although, it was clear to Republicans both inside and outside that Loyalist Leaders would soon come under attack by the IRA and INLA. So it fell to it's Belfast Commanders to not only gather Intelligence against Loyalist Leaders but to also plan a daring attack against them in their heartland, the Shankill Road. For years, the Ulster Defence Regiment (UDA) had owned an office on that particular road and regularly used it to plan attacks on Nationalists and Republicans. Therefore, it was not surprising when the office was picked as the identified target.

Having lived in Ardoyne all my life, it also wasn't a surprise that the local IRA Unit based there would be given the job of conducting the attack. As it was in close proximity to the district and in the months previous, a number of cars had been commandeered from local people to carry out operations against senior UDA figures. When News of the bombing broke, I knew that it was most likely carried-out by Volunteers from Ardoyne. At that particular stage however, I'd been behind bars for nearly four years and would have not known who was actually involved. Imagine my shock and surprise, when News report after report kept adding to the death toll from the explosion. It wasn't until the last report on BBC Radio Ulster at Midnight that I realised that something really dreadful had actually taken place that particular day.

An IRA Volunteer in Ardoyne in 1988

Being the weekend, no prisoner had any visits until Monday and we'd have to rely on the Media for News. It was no surprise listening to the various reports that a major premature explosion had actually taken place and that was behind the huge loss of life. As a Republican, I was devastated that so many innocent lives had been cut short in the attack and felt for the families of those who had died. Equally, I also felt for those behind the actual attack because they could not have known how wrong the Operation could have went. When the IRA finally admitted responsibility, my heart sank as they not only said something went badly wrong, but that a number of Volunteers were missing.

When Thomas Begley's name was mentioned and the Provisional IRA admitted that he had died in the explosion. I immediately recognised his family's name from Ardoyne. A pretty quiet family from my locality, known as decent people and hard workers. I knew all of them to speak to and had attended a number of local Schools with him and his brothers. Unlike my own family, Thomas' was not known as Republicans but he clearly had volunteered his services to the local Unit as so many others had over the years. His Parents, Billy & Sadie were really quiet and they all would be completely devastated. Not only from Thomas' death but with all those who were also killed.

Thomas' grave in the Republican Plot, Milltown Cemetery, Belfast

In the Twenty years since then, the Begley family have remained very reluctant to speak about that terrible Saturday afternoon in 1993. They have also been very dignified in the face of a hostile State, Media and Unionist Campaign to demonise them and of course Thomas. Earlier today, I was pleased to read a few comments from Bootsy's Dad in the Irish News. It was very clear that his family are still suffering from the effects of his death. They and Bootsy grew-up and lived in the War Zone known as Ardoyne. Where many of their Neighbours and Friends were killed, injured and imprisoned because of the Conflict raging around them. It is clear that the War had influenced Bootsy's decision to join the IRA and I know many readers will strongly disagree with that, which is their right. However, if taken in it's historical context Thomas must have felt he had little alternative and wanted to change the political situation in Ireland.

Ardoyne Commemorative Mural Honouring Fallen Republicans, including Bootsy

I did not know Thomas as an IRA Volunteer but I did know him from living in the area. As far as I and everyone else in Ardoyne is concerned, next week's Commemoration for him is timely and correct. Everyday since the Twelfth, Unionists have held countless marches in and around the Woodvale and Ardoyne Interface. They have also held a massive parade around the Shankill to commemorate Loyalist Killer, Brian Robinson. These and other marches are indeed sectarian and held in order to increase tensions in the wider community. Countless members of Westminster, Stormont and the City Council have publicly supported these events, whilst demanding Ardoyne does not honour Volunteer. Thomas Begley! The same Elected Representatives have never cared about the feelings and opinions about the Ardoyne community and their attitudes are unlikely to change. Many of these Politicians are also active members of the Orange and other bigoted organisations and as such are anti-Catholic/Nationalist and Republican. Given these facts they cannot be trusted!

Poster Advertising Bootsy's Commemoration

Ardoyne has always honoured those who have made huge sacrifices to attain Ireland's freedom and we always will. Regardless of complaints from British and Unionist Politicians who have always demonised Ardoyne and its residents. Based on all of the above Ardoyne Republicans ask Ardoyne to attend next week's memorial to Óglach. Thomas (Bootsy) Begley.

Following on from the successful Anti-Internment March through Belfast in August. The Anti-Internment League (AIL) has organised a large White-Line Picket against Internment in Belfast. The intention is to highlight the political imprisonment of so many of our fellow citizens by the British Injustice System in the occupied Six Counties. It is also to demand an end to the abuse of human rights by the unreformed RUC operating under the management of their masters in MI5.

The Picket has the full support of the Irish Republican Socialist Party (IRSP), Republican Sinn Fein (RSF), 32 County Sovereignty Movement (32CSM), Eirigi, Republican Network for Unity (RNU), 1916 Societies, Independent Republicans, Irish Republican Prisoners Welfare Association (IRPWA) Martin Corey Campaign and Cogus.

All the above Groups, Parties and P.O.W. organisations urge everyone who is against Internment by Remand and Selective Internment to join them on the Falls Road, West Belfast on Saturday 26th October @ 2pm. Come along and show your solidarity with Political Prisoners and their families.

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