g-man
11-21-2007, 08:34 PM
IRISH REPUBLICAN INFORMATION SERVICE
No 127
Teach Dáithí Ó Conaill, 223 Parnell Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
Phone: +353-1-872 9747; FAX: +353-1-872 9757; e-mail: saoirse@iol.ie
Date: Lúnasa / August 1, 2005
Internet resources maintained by SAOIRSE-Irish Freedom
http://saoirse.rr.nu
1. RSF to picket RTÉ
2. Republican principles betrayed by Adams
3. British had secret role in loyalist gangs
4. Shell to Sea court cases in Mayo
5. RSF support classroom assistants
6. District Policing Partnership meeting halted
7. Derryman injured by RUC/PSNI
8. Book to be launched about the Fenians in Scotland
9. British District Policing Partnership meeting halted
10. Investigation into bombing of McGurk’s continues
11. Residents homes attacked by loyalists
12. Gaelscoil parents give their backing to immersion policy
13. Rsf attend launch of union campaign
14. Priests propose new Corrib option
15. Provos ‘silencing’ Colombia 3 author
1. RSF TO PICKET RTÉ
REPUBLICAN SINN FÉIN announced that they are to picket RTÉ's Montrose Headquarters in Dublin on Saturday, 1st December. RSF National Publicity Officer, Richard Walsh, said that the protest was intended to counter-act censorship by the Broadcaster.
“During the Stormont election campaign within the Six Occupied Counties – preceding the March 7th poll, and our recent (103rd) Ard-Fheis in Dublin, RTÉ sought to deny us our voice. What is allegedly the National Broadcaster has effectively reintroduced the anti-democratic provisions of Section 31 of the Broadcasting Act in a bid to silence those opposed to the erosion of Irish National identity.
“We, as the oldest political organisation in the country, are determined to prevent the continuation of this policy. As such, we urge fellow citizens to defend Republican and democratic values by assembling at Nutley Lane, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 at 12 Noon.”
2. REPUBLICAN PRINCIPLES BETRAYED BY ADAMS
ON NOVEMBER 16 a spokesperson for Republican Sinn Féin said that an offer by the Provisional leader as reported in the Irish Times to hold talks with what are described as 'dissident Republicans' is a new low in political hypocrisy.
Des Long, Corbally, Limerick, chairman of the Munster RSF Executive, said that whilst Gerry Adams may denounce the shooting of British police and claim that those responsible have no mandate, the same view could be applied to his actions down the years.
"Let the Provisional leader face the facts - the values held by what he now describes as 'd********s' were once his own before he betrayed all Republican principles and sold out and surrendered to British rule in Ireland.
"Republicans who adhere to the traditional principles of the Movement cannot be described as 'd********s' - it is the likes of Gerry Adams and those who support him who have left the Republican Movement.
"Not content with tarnishing Republicanism by embracing and administering British rule, Adams now wants to totally destroy the National aspiration to Irish unity by setting up all those true Republicans who continue to politically oppose the failed Stormont Agreement.
"The lessons of history teach us, however, that for as long as there is partition and an armed British presence in Ireland, it will be challenged and opposed by Irish people. Just like it was by Gerry Adams before he betrayed the principles of Irish Republicanism."
3. BRITISH HAD SECRET ROLE IN LOYALIST GANGS
THE CURRENT action of the UDA in allegedly laying down their weapons is being masterminded by British military forces who were responsible for arming the Loyalist murder gangs initially, a spokesperson for Republican Sinn Féin said on November 13. Joe Lynch, Beechgrove Avenue, Limerick, Vice-Chairperson of Comhairle na Mumhan, said that the links between the British and loyalist gangs have yet to be publicly uncovered.
"What is known so far makes it clear that the British set up and armed loyalists with weapons from South Africa," he said. "The extent of collusion between the British military and intelligence services and the loyalist murder gangs is only now emerging with the passage of time, but the real level of co-operation is still being hidden because of the political situation.
"Whilst the so-called commanders of the UDA are now strutting around with the air of self-important puppets, the real masterminds remain hidden in the ranks of the British military.
"The victims of the British-inspired loyalist gangs are men and women like Pat Finucane and Rosemary Nelson who worked tirelessly on behalf of the nationalist people who came into contact with the British police. It is these victims who should be recalled when the UDA claim they are putting their weapons beyond use."
4. SHELL TO SEA COURT CASES IN BELMULLET
ON NOVEMBER 14 at Belmullet courthouse Judge Mary Devins convicted Shell to Sea spokesperson John Monaghan of a Section 2 assault and also of not obeying the directions of a garda, relating to an incident that occurred at Rossport polling station last May. She sentenced him to a 6-months suspended jail-term and fined him €750. This was the 7th time that this has appeared before Judge Devins and the last 3 times it was the issue of whether a garda is allowed in the polling station that was the main issue discussed. It was generally agreed that a Garda has the lawful authority to be in the polling station.
It was argued that the presence of the gardaí in polling stations was intimidating and that a persons legal entitlement to not be interfered with while voting should supersede the entitlement for a garda to be present (the same officers beating protesters in the mornings at Bellanaboy were on all-day duty in all the polling stations in Kilcommon parish at the last election).
The whole issue of the legal authority of the garda to be present in a polling station was first introduced by Judge Devins on the 12th of September and is considered a side issue by some. The main issue of the case is of assault - John Monaghan and his wife Bríd on one side and Sgt Gary Walsh on the other side claiming he was assaulted. It appears once again that Judge Devins believes garda evidence over the evidence of mere mortals.
A bit of background on the case is that on election day last May, John Monaghan entered the polling station to vote. After voting, he questioned Sgt Gary Walsh about what he was doing in the polling station. Sgt Walsh then asked John Monaghan to discuss the issue outside, and they both left the polling station. Sgt Walsh then states that John Monaghan with folded arms shoved both his elbows into him and stamped on his foot and shoved him back on a car. John Monaghan however claims that he was just asking Sgt Walsh what he was doing there. He said that at one stage he was leaving when Sgt Walsh said “Yea, leave if you know what’s good for you”, whereupon John Monaghan returned to ask what he meant by this.
Bríd Ní Seighin also gave evidence that she sat in the car outside the polling station the whole time that her husband and Sgt Walsh were outside the polling station, and the first time she knew there was any problem was when a patrol car arrived to arrest John. Also it should be noted that at the time Gary Walsh wasn’t a sergeant, and that his recent promotion is viewed with deep suspicion around the area.
Also in court were the 5 members of the Srahmore lock-on who blocked peat haulage lorries last June, whose eligibility for the 100 hours community service was being accessed. While the 3 of the members present were deemed fit for community service, one of the lock-on members was sentenced in absentia to 3 months in prison. She had been found unsuitable for community service by the probation officer due to illness and had also been unable to travel from England to attend court due to her illness. She had in the previous week written to both the probation officer and the court to say she would be unable to attend. However Judge Devins decided that even though the mother of 3 wasn’t suitable for community service, she would be suitable for a 3 month stint in Mountjoy. Finally, the last member of the lock-on while found suitable for community service was also unable to be in court due to illness and had a doctors cert present to that effect. However the all knowing judge cast doubts on the validity of the doctors certificate and promptly issued a bench warrant for her arrest.
Terence Conway and Bob Kavanagh were also up for sentencing for halting Shell work on the refinery site on the July 13 with a van lock-on (see http://www.indymedia.ie/article/83416 for details). They were both found guilty of Section 6, 8 & 9 of the Public Order Acts and sentenced to 150 hours of community service or 4 month in prison if they refuse. In sentencing them Judge Devins stated that even though Terence Conway had said that he took this course of action in order to protect people, he had never said who he was trying to protect. It should be noted that at the day of the evidence hearing that Judge Devins quickly closed down arguments as to the reasons behind the van lock-on. With regard to Bob Kavanagh’s knowledge of the area of ecology and pollution she condescendingly dismissed his opinions and stated that his reasons for doing this were based on “something I read”.
The 3 protestors who were arrested at last Friday’s day of action (November 9) were also up in court and on arrival they were handed further charges of obstructing traffic in addition to the existing charge of obstructing a garda. These cases were adjourned until the December 12.
Also in court were Maire and Sean Harrington who were on charges relating to an incident in May during the visit of Mary McAleese to Belmullet. There was a question as to why it took 3 months to issue charges in relation to the incident. Sgt Gill stated that he had been very busy and that it took some time before he got around to processing the incident. This case was adjourned until the December 12 also.
Finally also in court were 2 separate appeals against Shell being allowed access to both the Rossport and Muing na Bó commonages. Shell had in the last few weeks sent out letters to some locals in the area around the commonages and had also put advertisements in the local papers stating their intention to carry out surveys of the commonages to see if they would be suitable for the pipeline.
One of the appeals lodged came from Monica Muller and the other was issued on behalf of 27 people who have shares in the commonages that Shell wish to have access to. The fact that Shell had not correctly issued notice to all landowners in accordance with Section 5 of the Gas Act, 1976 (see http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1976/en/act/pub/0030/sec...976s5) was then raised.
Legal argument followed and finally Judge Devins decided that correct notice hadn’t been given and ruled that Shell won’t be allowed access. She postponed a decision of costs against Shell until the January 9.
In all 13 people were in court for opposing Shell’s plans for the area.
Related Link: http://www.indymedia.ie/article/84637
5. RSF SUPPORT CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS
Republican Sinn Féin has expressed its support for the NIPSA-affiliated Classroom Assistants in their ongoing battle to improve their employment conditions. They were described by Publicity Officer, Richard Walsh, as an inspiration to all exploited workers.
“Catríona Ruane has attempted to lay the blame on those engaged in industrial action. However, after twelve long years of fruitless negotiations they have been left with no alternative. It is the refusal to negotiate a fair deal for Classroom Assistants which has led to the closure of special schools," he said.
Whilst the Provos may wish to ally themselves with those on the Management side, Republican Sinn Féin recognises the right of all employees to fair conditions of employment. The courageous stand taken by Classroom Assistants will serve as an inspiration to exploited workers everywhere.
“It is time that the party of Ms. Ruane dropped all pretence of defending Republican and Socialist ideals.”
6. DISTRICT POLICING PARTNERSHIP MEETING HALTED
A REPUBLICAN protest of up to 30 demonstrators halted a District Policing Partnership meeting in the Markets Community Centre in south Belfast on November 20. The protesters were understood to include those unhappy at the provisionals decision to take their places in the partnership.
Provo Policing Board member Alex Maskey was in the audience: "Some of them [protesters] would have been former Sinn Féin supporters, some would never have supported Sinn Féin," he said.
"This was as much a protest against us as a party engaging with policing as it was against the police. We have a mandate from people in the Markets to engage but I feel it was a mistake to organise a meeting without talking to people in the local community."
Most of the residents are opposed to the provos sitting on the DPP but have been intimidated into silence until now. “It was only a short while ago that we would have been shot for speaking to the RUC never mind inviting them into the community. Just because the provies now are hand in glove with the RUC we are all expected to welcome them too”, said one resident who did not want his name used.
7. DERRYMAN INJURED BY RUC/PSNI
Gary Donnelly from Derry said on November 18 that the RUC/PSNI fractured his arm in three places during a search operation in the city. He said they denied him first aid after he was taken to Derry's Strand Road police station despite his injury
Donnelly said the RUC/PSNI had stopped him at Foyle Street in Derry on Friday night and said they wanted to search him. When he asked them what legislation they were searching him under he was pushed to the ground.
According to Donnelly a member of the RUC put him in a headlock, threw him to the ground and “there were two or three officers came in behind and one of them, I believe, stuck a knee on my arm and cracked it."
He was handcuffed and taken to the Strand Road station where he was held for several hours before being released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.
8. BOOK TO BE LAUNCHED ABOUT THE FENIANS IN SCOTLAND
A new book about the Irish Republican Brotherhood and other Republican organisations in Scotland will be launched by the Irish in Scotland History Group in the Mid Hall of Langside Hall, Langside Avenue, Glasgow on Saturday December 15 from 10am to Noon. Admission is free.
Irish Republicanism in Scotland 1858-1916 is the first historical narrative of the Irish republican movement in Scotland and is the result of extensive research into a significant aspect of the hidden history of the Irish community. The book begins with a discussion of the Irish in Scotland, and follows the organisational birth and growth of the Irish revolutionary movement up to 1916.
The historian Dr Mairtin O’Cathain is the author of this major work and he will give a talk on the theme of the book followed by a question and answer session. The hardback and paperback editions of the book cost £27 and £12 respectively. To secure your copy, which can be collected at the launch, please email your request to: avonlea12000@yahoo.com
9. DISTRICT POLICING PARTNERSHIP MEETING HALTED
A REPUBLICAN protest of up to 30 demonstrators halted a British District Policing Partnership meeting in the Markets Community Centre in south Belfast on November 20. The protesters were understood to include those unhappy at the provisionals decision to take their places in the partnership.
Provo Policing Board member Alex Maskey was in the audience: "Some of them [protesters] would have been former Sinn Féin supporters, some would never have supported Sinn Féin," he said.
"This was as much a protest against us as a party engaging with policing as it was against the police. We have a mandate from people in the Markets to engage but I feel it was a mistake to organise a meeting without talking to people in the local community."
Most of the residents are opposed to the provos sitting on the DPP but have been intimidated into silence until now. “It was only a short while ago that we would have been shot for speaking to the RUC never mind inviting them into the community. Just because the provies now are hand in glove with the RUC we are expected to welcome them too”, said one resident who did not want his name used.
10. INVESTIGATION INTO BOMBING OF MCGURK’S CONTINUES
THE Historical Enquiries Team and RUC/PSNI are to meet with relatives of the bombing of McGurk’s bar on Great George’s Street and North Queen Street in Belfast on November 16 to discuss investigations into the December 1971 bombing in which 15 people died.
Though the bombing was carried out by loyalists, the British army said the IRA had put a 50lb gelignite bomb inside the bar, but local people said it had been placed in the doorway by a carload of loyalists. But the families have always known that loyalists acted in collusion with British military agents to carry out the bombing
Former North Belfast UVF man and a British Army agent known only as John Black alleged earlier this year that the bombing, one of the most deadly in the Troubles, was organised by his handlers in the British Army’s Military Reconnaissance Force.
11. RESIDENTS HOMES ATTACKED BY LOYALISTS
NATIONALIST homes at a north Belfast interface came under attack from a loyalist gang just hours after statements were read by leading UDA members at Remembrance Day commemorations on November 11.
Windows were smashed in two homes along the Serpentine Road and six cars damaged when up to five men entered the area in the early hours of Monday morning.
The gang shouted "up the UFF" as they fled, were said to be in their early twenties.
Whitewell resident Orla Murphy woke to find that three cars parked in the driveway of the home she shares with her sister and a friend had been attacked. The damage was estimated at around £3,500.
12. GAELSCOIL PARENTS GIVE THEIR BACKING TO IMMERSION POLICY
PARENTS of Gaelscoil pupils have given their backing to the policy of teaching no English for up to two years, despite a directive from Education Minister Mary Hanafin that schools should end the practice from next year according to an article in the Irish News on November 13.
Fiona Griffin said she and her husband Damian were delighted with the early immersion policy at their son Gearóid’s school, where he learned no English until the second term of senior infants last January. Despite this the six-year-old has already achieved a second-class level of reading and writing in English.
“I think his progress must be something to do with being taught entirely through Irish from his first day at school,” said Ms Griffin.
Gaelscoil Eiscir Uí Riada in Lucan, Co Dublin, where Gearóid is in first class, is one of dozens of all-Irish schools where this early immersion policy is in place, but which are opposing the circular issued by Ms Hanafin during the summer. It instructs them that at least half an hour of English should be taught every day from the second term of junior infants at the latest, beginning in January.
However, two gaelscoileanna and An Foras Pátrúnachta, which is patron to more than 50 all-Irish schools, were granted a judicial review on Monday, challenging this decision pending further research.
Ms Griffin was speaking at yesterday’s launch of a campaign by the Gaelscoileanna organisation to maintain early immersion policies in almost 200 all-Irish primary schools. Gaelscoileanna president, Mícheál Ó Broin, said the minister’s letter flies in the face of international research and is contrary to advice that more research is needed from two statutory bodies, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta.
“The decision is based on the questionable findings of the Department of Education inspectorate in one school. The result is the proposed ending of early immersion education and a devastating blow to the Gaelscoil movement, the Irish language and a parent’s right to choose within the education system,” he said.
The minister’s decision was partly based on inspections at Gaelscoil Uí Easmainn in Tralee, Co Kerry, where some parents complained about the immersion policy in place, and one of two schools given the temporary High Court injunction on Monday.
Irish National Teachers’ Organisation vice-president Declan Kelleher questioned why the minister has advisory bodies if their advice is being ignored in such issues, and urged her to have proper research done on immersion education to help make a better informed decision.
The campaign is also supported by An Foras Pátrúnachta, Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge and Conradh na Gaeilge.
13. RSF ATTEND LAUNCH OF UNION CAMPAIGN
SPEAKING at a very successful and well attended meeting to launch a trade union campaign to stop the exploitation of agency workers and to maintain the employment standards of all workers in Liberty Hall on November 19, Republican Sinn Féin Vice President Des Dalton said that the central demand of the campaign should be for the direct employment of all workers and an end to the use of so-called ‘employment agencies’.
“The exploitation of agency workers undermines the hard fought for terms, conditions and pay of all workers but also feeds into the racist agenda, setting worker against worker, casting the victim of exploitation as the villain. The real villains must be exposed, they are the employers who exploit workers for profit and the state who allow and indeed encourage such exploitation.”, Des Dalton said.
The meeting, chaired by SIPTU’s Gary McCormack was addressed by representatives of a number of political parties and organisations such as People Before Profit as well as David Begg, General Secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Eamon Devoy of the Technical, Engineering and Electrical Union (TEEU).
The SIPTU Dublin Regional Secretary Patricia King said that the purpose of the campaign was to stop the exploitation of agency workers and defend the rights and standards of all workers. She said that at present there was 520 employment agencies operating in the 26-Counties, they labour mainly to the services industry.
“Agency workers are paid less than the agreed rate, they have no sick pay, no overtime pay, no pension, work longer hours, have no job security and neither the employment agency or the employer take responsibility for the workers or their pay and conditions.”, Patricia King said.
Patricia King said that despite paying lip service to the concept of so-called ‘social partnership’ the 26-County administration in reality is one of four of EU states to oppose an EU ‘Draft Directive on temporary agency work’.
The President of SIPTU Jack O’Connor cited the European Foundation for Living and Working Conditions which has found, that compared to all other forms of employment that temporary agency-work has the worst record with regard to working conditions. This is true with regard to health and safety issues, and in practice, such work is even more insecure than limited duration contracts. There is also evidence of evasion of European law on equal pay for equal work, and circumvention of working-time regulation.
At a press conference earlier that day Jack O’Connor said that the growing use of labour agencies by employers as a substitute for directly recruiting staff posed a grave threat to the living standards of workers.
Jack O'Connor again signalled that he did not see how a new 26-County agreement could be negotiated if this issue was not addressed.
"We cannot overstate the importance of this issue. Every syllable of employment protection legislation ever enacted in this country is being circumvented and rendered useless by unscrupulous employers who see the use of labour agencies as the most effective means of exploitation since the abolition of the slave trade 200 years ago."
Siptu has argued that the 26-County state is one of only three EU states in which temporary workers recruited through agencies can be employed on lesser terms and conditions to those directly employed.
The union said that between 2002 and 2003 there was a 68 per cent increase in temporary agency work placements in the 26-Counties. It said in the first quarter of 2005 the Central Statistics Office estimated that there were 27,000 temporary agency workers employed in the 26-Counties- about 2 per cent of the total workforce.
Jack O'Connor said a new underclass of people was being created who had absolutely no rights in the workplace.
Agency workers had no contract of employment with their beneficial employer, on which all employment legislation turned.
He said the 26-Counties was one of four countries that were blocking the adoption of an EU directive in this area.
"Very soon the Government will have to decide between whatever benefits it believes are being derived from the exploitation of vulnerable people and the continuation of social partnership.
"Because it may well be that they can have one or the other but they cannot have both."
The launch of the Siptu campaign included a number of current and former agency workers who gave details of their experiences.
Conor O'Gorman said he had been working for a construction agency for three years.
On one site a Polish man was working Saturdays and Sundays, and was not being paid overtime rates as he was entitled to under the national agreement.
"One the same site another Polish worker was asked by his foreman two days before his holidays if he would be willing to work the holidays. He said he could not as he was going back to Poland He was told that if he went back to Poland not to bother returning to Dublin as he would not have a job anymore."
14. PRIESTS PROPOSE NEW CORRIB OPTION
THREE north Mayo priests have called on 26-County Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan to consider an alternative location on the Erris coastline for the Corrib gas refinery.
The three priests, Fr Michael Nallen, Fr Michael Gilroy and Fr Sean Noone of Kilcommon parish, have identified Glinsk, near Belderrig, Co Mayo, as an alternative to Bellanaboy, where the refinery is at the early stages of construction.
The same location was identified by Shell consultants, RPS, last summer as a potential landfall during initial work on modifying onshore pipeline routes. However, the consultants are not involved in any aspect of the refinery, and have since narrowed the routes down to exclude this option.
The priests believe that by locating the actual refinery at Glinsk, it would avoid an onshore pipeline of any significant length, and would help to resolve what they describe as the "current impasse".
The current refinery at Bellanaboy is located within the Carrowmore lake drinking water catchment, supplying 10,000 people. The priests claim the outfall pipe could have a "potential negative impact" on the local fishing industry and the environmental integrity of Broadhaven.
Glinsk has no housing within several miles of the exposed area of bogland, but Shell consultants had noted in their assessment for the pipeline survey that the exposed landfall had steep cliffs of greater than 50 metres. It also adjoins the Glenamoy bog complex special area of conservation.
The priests say they believe that running a high-pressure pipe up a cliff-face has been done before and is "technically and economically feasible" and would "comply with the codes of practice and EU directives".
"While there may be conservation issues wherever the refinery is located, we believe it is paramount that human life is protected," the priests state, urging Eamon Ryan to "give serious consideration to this option in an effort to bring the sorry history of this project to a peaceful and just conclusion".
The priests, who are not members of Shell to Sea, have stated that the project as planned "does not have the consent from the community".
In October, in an initial letter to Eamon Ryan, they questioned how "promotional material" distributed by the Corrib gas developers could "validly claim community status".
"We wish to reiterate that we believe most people are not opposed to the gas coming ashore. Benefits for community and country are something that most people would welcome.
"It should be possible to achieve this goal in an environmentally and community friendly way without the flaws which are linked to the Bellanaboy site," they have stressed in their new letter.
PROVOS ‘SILENCE’ COLOMBIA 3 AUTHOR
THE Provisionals were accused of “silencing” Colombia Three member James Monaghan after he withdrew co-operation from the publicity campaign for his new book.
It is alleged that senior figures within the Provisionals did not want Jim Monaghan taking questions on TV or radio about the controversial matters covered by the book.
Jim Monaghan was one of the three men arrested in Colombia in 2001 on charges of providing explosives training to that country’s Marxist rebel group FARC.
His book, Colombia Jail Journal, was launched in Dublin, on November 20.
But its launch was overshadowed by controversy after the book’s publisher, Brandon, said the Provisionals had ordered Monaghan not to participate in broadcast interviews.
“We undertook publication of this book in good faith and under the terms of a contract which, among other things, committed the author to co-operate with our promotional efforts,” said Brandon.
“However, to our complete surprise, the author has withdrawn from any co-operation with broadcast media, calling a halt in particular to discussions about his proposed appearance on the Late Late Show. He has done so on the orders of the republican movement (sic).”
Asked why the Provos may have wanted to silence Jim Monaghan, Steve McDonagh of Brandon said it may have been because Jim Monaghan discussed in the book the time he spent with FARC.
Monaghan maintains in the book he was in Colombia to study a ceasefire which was in operation at the time.
The row is all the stranger considering Brandon has previously published a number of books by Gerry Adams.
Jim Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley were found guilty of travelling on false passports but initially acquitted of the bomb-training charges.
However, a higher court later overturned the acquittals and sentenced the men to 17 years in prison. But by that time, they had jumped bail and fled Colombia.
No 127
Teach Dáithí Ó Conaill, 223 Parnell Street, Dublin 1, Ireland
Phone: +353-1-872 9747; FAX: +353-1-872 9757; e-mail: saoirse@iol.ie
Date: Lúnasa / August 1, 2005
Internet resources maintained by SAOIRSE-Irish Freedom
http://saoirse.rr.nu
1. RSF to picket RTÉ
2. Republican principles betrayed by Adams
3. British had secret role in loyalist gangs
4. Shell to Sea court cases in Mayo
5. RSF support classroom assistants
6. District Policing Partnership meeting halted
7. Derryman injured by RUC/PSNI
8. Book to be launched about the Fenians in Scotland
9. British District Policing Partnership meeting halted
10. Investigation into bombing of McGurk’s continues
11. Residents homes attacked by loyalists
12. Gaelscoil parents give their backing to immersion policy
13. Rsf attend launch of union campaign
14. Priests propose new Corrib option
15. Provos ‘silencing’ Colombia 3 author
1. RSF TO PICKET RTÉ
REPUBLICAN SINN FÉIN announced that they are to picket RTÉ's Montrose Headquarters in Dublin on Saturday, 1st December. RSF National Publicity Officer, Richard Walsh, said that the protest was intended to counter-act censorship by the Broadcaster.
“During the Stormont election campaign within the Six Occupied Counties – preceding the March 7th poll, and our recent (103rd) Ard-Fheis in Dublin, RTÉ sought to deny us our voice. What is allegedly the National Broadcaster has effectively reintroduced the anti-democratic provisions of Section 31 of the Broadcasting Act in a bid to silence those opposed to the erosion of Irish National identity.
“We, as the oldest political organisation in the country, are determined to prevent the continuation of this policy. As such, we urge fellow citizens to defend Republican and democratic values by assembling at Nutley Lane, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 at 12 Noon.”
2. REPUBLICAN PRINCIPLES BETRAYED BY ADAMS
ON NOVEMBER 16 a spokesperson for Republican Sinn Féin said that an offer by the Provisional leader as reported in the Irish Times to hold talks with what are described as 'dissident Republicans' is a new low in political hypocrisy.
Des Long, Corbally, Limerick, chairman of the Munster RSF Executive, said that whilst Gerry Adams may denounce the shooting of British police and claim that those responsible have no mandate, the same view could be applied to his actions down the years.
"Let the Provisional leader face the facts - the values held by what he now describes as 'd********s' were once his own before he betrayed all Republican principles and sold out and surrendered to British rule in Ireland.
"Republicans who adhere to the traditional principles of the Movement cannot be described as 'd********s' - it is the likes of Gerry Adams and those who support him who have left the Republican Movement.
"Not content with tarnishing Republicanism by embracing and administering British rule, Adams now wants to totally destroy the National aspiration to Irish unity by setting up all those true Republicans who continue to politically oppose the failed Stormont Agreement.
"The lessons of history teach us, however, that for as long as there is partition and an armed British presence in Ireland, it will be challenged and opposed by Irish people. Just like it was by Gerry Adams before he betrayed the principles of Irish Republicanism."
3. BRITISH HAD SECRET ROLE IN LOYALIST GANGS
THE CURRENT action of the UDA in allegedly laying down their weapons is being masterminded by British military forces who were responsible for arming the Loyalist murder gangs initially, a spokesperson for Republican Sinn Féin said on November 13. Joe Lynch, Beechgrove Avenue, Limerick, Vice-Chairperson of Comhairle na Mumhan, said that the links between the British and loyalist gangs have yet to be publicly uncovered.
"What is known so far makes it clear that the British set up and armed loyalists with weapons from South Africa," he said. "The extent of collusion between the British military and intelligence services and the loyalist murder gangs is only now emerging with the passage of time, but the real level of co-operation is still being hidden because of the political situation.
"Whilst the so-called commanders of the UDA are now strutting around with the air of self-important puppets, the real masterminds remain hidden in the ranks of the British military.
"The victims of the British-inspired loyalist gangs are men and women like Pat Finucane and Rosemary Nelson who worked tirelessly on behalf of the nationalist people who came into contact with the British police. It is these victims who should be recalled when the UDA claim they are putting their weapons beyond use."
4. SHELL TO SEA COURT CASES IN BELMULLET
ON NOVEMBER 14 at Belmullet courthouse Judge Mary Devins convicted Shell to Sea spokesperson John Monaghan of a Section 2 assault and also of not obeying the directions of a garda, relating to an incident that occurred at Rossport polling station last May. She sentenced him to a 6-months suspended jail-term and fined him €750. This was the 7th time that this has appeared before Judge Devins and the last 3 times it was the issue of whether a garda is allowed in the polling station that was the main issue discussed. It was generally agreed that a Garda has the lawful authority to be in the polling station.
It was argued that the presence of the gardaí in polling stations was intimidating and that a persons legal entitlement to not be interfered with while voting should supersede the entitlement for a garda to be present (the same officers beating protesters in the mornings at Bellanaboy were on all-day duty in all the polling stations in Kilcommon parish at the last election).
The whole issue of the legal authority of the garda to be present in a polling station was first introduced by Judge Devins on the 12th of September and is considered a side issue by some. The main issue of the case is of assault - John Monaghan and his wife Bríd on one side and Sgt Gary Walsh on the other side claiming he was assaulted. It appears once again that Judge Devins believes garda evidence over the evidence of mere mortals.
A bit of background on the case is that on election day last May, John Monaghan entered the polling station to vote. After voting, he questioned Sgt Gary Walsh about what he was doing in the polling station. Sgt Walsh then asked John Monaghan to discuss the issue outside, and they both left the polling station. Sgt Walsh then states that John Monaghan with folded arms shoved both his elbows into him and stamped on his foot and shoved him back on a car. John Monaghan however claims that he was just asking Sgt Walsh what he was doing there. He said that at one stage he was leaving when Sgt Walsh said “Yea, leave if you know what’s good for you”, whereupon John Monaghan returned to ask what he meant by this.
Bríd Ní Seighin also gave evidence that she sat in the car outside the polling station the whole time that her husband and Sgt Walsh were outside the polling station, and the first time she knew there was any problem was when a patrol car arrived to arrest John. Also it should be noted that at the time Gary Walsh wasn’t a sergeant, and that his recent promotion is viewed with deep suspicion around the area.
Also in court were the 5 members of the Srahmore lock-on who blocked peat haulage lorries last June, whose eligibility for the 100 hours community service was being accessed. While the 3 of the members present were deemed fit for community service, one of the lock-on members was sentenced in absentia to 3 months in prison. She had been found unsuitable for community service by the probation officer due to illness and had also been unable to travel from England to attend court due to her illness. She had in the previous week written to both the probation officer and the court to say she would be unable to attend. However Judge Devins decided that even though the mother of 3 wasn’t suitable for community service, she would be suitable for a 3 month stint in Mountjoy. Finally, the last member of the lock-on while found suitable for community service was also unable to be in court due to illness and had a doctors cert present to that effect. However the all knowing judge cast doubts on the validity of the doctors certificate and promptly issued a bench warrant for her arrest.
Terence Conway and Bob Kavanagh were also up for sentencing for halting Shell work on the refinery site on the July 13 with a van lock-on (see http://www.indymedia.ie/article/83416 for details). They were both found guilty of Section 6, 8 & 9 of the Public Order Acts and sentenced to 150 hours of community service or 4 month in prison if they refuse. In sentencing them Judge Devins stated that even though Terence Conway had said that he took this course of action in order to protect people, he had never said who he was trying to protect. It should be noted that at the day of the evidence hearing that Judge Devins quickly closed down arguments as to the reasons behind the van lock-on. With regard to Bob Kavanagh’s knowledge of the area of ecology and pollution she condescendingly dismissed his opinions and stated that his reasons for doing this were based on “something I read”.
The 3 protestors who were arrested at last Friday’s day of action (November 9) were also up in court and on arrival they were handed further charges of obstructing traffic in addition to the existing charge of obstructing a garda. These cases were adjourned until the December 12.
Also in court were Maire and Sean Harrington who were on charges relating to an incident in May during the visit of Mary McAleese to Belmullet. There was a question as to why it took 3 months to issue charges in relation to the incident. Sgt Gill stated that he had been very busy and that it took some time before he got around to processing the incident. This case was adjourned until the December 12 also.
Finally also in court were 2 separate appeals against Shell being allowed access to both the Rossport and Muing na Bó commonages. Shell had in the last few weeks sent out letters to some locals in the area around the commonages and had also put advertisements in the local papers stating their intention to carry out surveys of the commonages to see if they would be suitable for the pipeline.
One of the appeals lodged came from Monica Muller and the other was issued on behalf of 27 people who have shares in the commonages that Shell wish to have access to. The fact that Shell had not correctly issued notice to all landowners in accordance with Section 5 of the Gas Act, 1976 (see http://www.irishstatutebook.ie/1976/en/act/pub/0030/sec...976s5) was then raised.
Legal argument followed and finally Judge Devins decided that correct notice hadn’t been given and ruled that Shell won’t be allowed access. She postponed a decision of costs against Shell until the January 9.
In all 13 people were in court for opposing Shell’s plans for the area.
Related Link: http://www.indymedia.ie/article/84637
5. RSF SUPPORT CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS
Republican Sinn Féin has expressed its support for the NIPSA-affiliated Classroom Assistants in their ongoing battle to improve their employment conditions. They were described by Publicity Officer, Richard Walsh, as an inspiration to all exploited workers.
“Catríona Ruane has attempted to lay the blame on those engaged in industrial action. However, after twelve long years of fruitless negotiations they have been left with no alternative. It is the refusal to negotiate a fair deal for Classroom Assistants which has led to the closure of special schools," he said.
Whilst the Provos may wish to ally themselves with those on the Management side, Republican Sinn Féin recognises the right of all employees to fair conditions of employment. The courageous stand taken by Classroom Assistants will serve as an inspiration to exploited workers everywhere.
“It is time that the party of Ms. Ruane dropped all pretence of defending Republican and Socialist ideals.”
6. DISTRICT POLICING PARTNERSHIP MEETING HALTED
A REPUBLICAN protest of up to 30 demonstrators halted a District Policing Partnership meeting in the Markets Community Centre in south Belfast on November 20. The protesters were understood to include those unhappy at the provisionals decision to take their places in the partnership.
Provo Policing Board member Alex Maskey was in the audience: "Some of them [protesters] would have been former Sinn Féin supporters, some would never have supported Sinn Féin," he said.
"This was as much a protest against us as a party engaging with policing as it was against the police. We have a mandate from people in the Markets to engage but I feel it was a mistake to organise a meeting without talking to people in the local community."
Most of the residents are opposed to the provos sitting on the DPP but have been intimidated into silence until now. “It was only a short while ago that we would have been shot for speaking to the RUC never mind inviting them into the community. Just because the provies now are hand in glove with the RUC we are all expected to welcome them too”, said one resident who did not want his name used.
7. DERRYMAN INJURED BY RUC/PSNI
Gary Donnelly from Derry said on November 18 that the RUC/PSNI fractured his arm in three places during a search operation in the city. He said they denied him first aid after he was taken to Derry's Strand Road police station despite his injury
Donnelly said the RUC/PSNI had stopped him at Foyle Street in Derry on Friday night and said they wanted to search him. When he asked them what legislation they were searching him under he was pushed to the ground.
According to Donnelly a member of the RUC put him in a headlock, threw him to the ground and “there were two or three officers came in behind and one of them, I believe, stuck a knee on my arm and cracked it."
He was handcuffed and taken to the Strand Road station where he was held for several hours before being released pending a report to the Public Prosecution Service.
8. BOOK TO BE LAUNCHED ABOUT THE FENIANS IN SCOTLAND
A new book about the Irish Republican Brotherhood and other Republican organisations in Scotland will be launched by the Irish in Scotland History Group in the Mid Hall of Langside Hall, Langside Avenue, Glasgow on Saturday December 15 from 10am to Noon. Admission is free.
Irish Republicanism in Scotland 1858-1916 is the first historical narrative of the Irish republican movement in Scotland and is the result of extensive research into a significant aspect of the hidden history of the Irish community. The book begins with a discussion of the Irish in Scotland, and follows the organisational birth and growth of the Irish revolutionary movement up to 1916.
The historian Dr Mairtin O’Cathain is the author of this major work and he will give a talk on the theme of the book followed by a question and answer session. The hardback and paperback editions of the book cost £27 and £12 respectively. To secure your copy, which can be collected at the launch, please email your request to: avonlea12000@yahoo.com
9. DISTRICT POLICING PARTNERSHIP MEETING HALTED
A REPUBLICAN protest of up to 30 demonstrators halted a British District Policing Partnership meeting in the Markets Community Centre in south Belfast on November 20. The protesters were understood to include those unhappy at the provisionals decision to take their places in the partnership.
Provo Policing Board member Alex Maskey was in the audience: "Some of them [protesters] would have been former Sinn Féin supporters, some would never have supported Sinn Féin," he said.
"This was as much a protest against us as a party engaging with policing as it was against the police. We have a mandate from people in the Markets to engage but I feel it was a mistake to organise a meeting without talking to people in the local community."
Most of the residents are opposed to the provos sitting on the DPP but have been intimidated into silence until now. “It was only a short while ago that we would have been shot for speaking to the RUC never mind inviting them into the community. Just because the provies now are hand in glove with the RUC we are expected to welcome them too”, said one resident who did not want his name used.
10. INVESTIGATION INTO BOMBING OF MCGURK’S CONTINUES
THE Historical Enquiries Team and RUC/PSNI are to meet with relatives of the bombing of McGurk’s bar on Great George’s Street and North Queen Street in Belfast on November 16 to discuss investigations into the December 1971 bombing in which 15 people died.
Though the bombing was carried out by loyalists, the British army said the IRA had put a 50lb gelignite bomb inside the bar, but local people said it had been placed in the doorway by a carload of loyalists. But the families have always known that loyalists acted in collusion with British military agents to carry out the bombing
Former North Belfast UVF man and a British Army agent known only as John Black alleged earlier this year that the bombing, one of the most deadly in the Troubles, was organised by his handlers in the British Army’s Military Reconnaissance Force.
11. RESIDENTS HOMES ATTACKED BY LOYALISTS
NATIONALIST homes at a north Belfast interface came under attack from a loyalist gang just hours after statements were read by leading UDA members at Remembrance Day commemorations on November 11.
Windows were smashed in two homes along the Serpentine Road and six cars damaged when up to five men entered the area in the early hours of Monday morning.
The gang shouted "up the UFF" as they fled, were said to be in their early twenties.
Whitewell resident Orla Murphy woke to find that three cars parked in the driveway of the home she shares with her sister and a friend had been attacked. The damage was estimated at around £3,500.
12. GAELSCOIL PARENTS GIVE THEIR BACKING TO IMMERSION POLICY
PARENTS of Gaelscoil pupils have given their backing to the policy of teaching no English for up to two years, despite a directive from Education Minister Mary Hanafin that schools should end the practice from next year according to an article in the Irish News on November 13.
Fiona Griffin said she and her husband Damian were delighted with the early immersion policy at their son Gearóid’s school, where he learned no English until the second term of senior infants last January. Despite this the six-year-old has already achieved a second-class level of reading and writing in English.
“I think his progress must be something to do with being taught entirely through Irish from his first day at school,” said Ms Griffin.
Gaelscoil Eiscir Uí Riada in Lucan, Co Dublin, where Gearóid is in first class, is one of dozens of all-Irish schools where this early immersion policy is in place, but which are opposing the circular issued by Ms Hanafin during the summer. It instructs them that at least half an hour of English should be taught every day from the second term of junior infants at the latest, beginning in January.
However, two gaelscoileanna and An Foras Pátrúnachta, which is patron to more than 50 all-Irish schools, were granted a judicial review on Monday, challenging this decision pending further research.
Ms Griffin was speaking at yesterday’s launch of a campaign by the Gaelscoileanna organisation to maintain early immersion policies in almost 200 all-Irish primary schools. Gaelscoileanna president, Mícheál Ó Broin, said the minister’s letter flies in the face of international research and is contrary to advice that more research is needed from two statutory bodies, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta.
“The decision is based on the questionable findings of the Department of Education inspectorate in one school. The result is the proposed ending of early immersion education and a devastating blow to the Gaelscoil movement, the Irish language and a parent’s right to choose within the education system,” he said.
The minister’s decision was partly based on inspections at Gaelscoil Uí Easmainn in Tralee, Co Kerry, where some parents complained about the immersion policy in place, and one of two schools given the temporary High Court injunction on Monday.
Irish National Teachers’ Organisation vice-president Declan Kelleher questioned why the minister has advisory bodies if their advice is being ignored in such issues, and urged her to have proper research done on immersion education to help make a better informed decision.
The campaign is also supported by An Foras Pátrúnachta, Comhdháil Náisiúnta na Gaeilge and Conradh na Gaeilge.
13. RSF ATTEND LAUNCH OF UNION CAMPAIGN
SPEAKING at a very successful and well attended meeting to launch a trade union campaign to stop the exploitation of agency workers and to maintain the employment standards of all workers in Liberty Hall on November 19, Republican Sinn Féin Vice President Des Dalton said that the central demand of the campaign should be for the direct employment of all workers and an end to the use of so-called ‘employment agencies’.
“The exploitation of agency workers undermines the hard fought for terms, conditions and pay of all workers but also feeds into the racist agenda, setting worker against worker, casting the victim of exploitation as the villain. The real villains must be exposed, they are the employers who exploit workers for profit and the state who allow and indeed encourage such exploitation.”, Des Dalton said.
The meeting, chaired by SIPTU’s Gary McCormack was addressed by representatives of a number of political parties and organisations such as People Before Profit as well as David Begg, General Secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Eamon Devoy of the Technical, Engineering and Electrical Union (TEEU).
The SIPTU Dublin Regional Secretary Patricia King said that the purpose of the campaign was to stop the exploitation of agency workers and defend the rights and standards of all workers. She said that at present there was 520 employment agencies operating in the 26-Counties, they labour mainly to the services industry.
“Agency workers are paid less than the agreed rate, they have no sick pay, no overtime pay, no pension, work longer hours, have no job security and neither the employment agency or the employer take responsibility for the workers or their pay and conditions.”, Patricia King said.
Patricia King said that despite paying lip service to the concept of so-called ‘social partnership’ the 26-County administration in reality is one of four of EU states to oppose an EU ‘Draft Directive on temporary agency work’.
The President of SIPTU Jack O’Connor cited the European Foundation for Living and Working Conditions which has found, that compared to all other forms of employment that temporary agency-work has the worst record with regard to working conditions. This is true with regard to health and safety issues, and in practice, such work is even more insecure than limited duration contracts. There is also evidence of evasion of European law on equal pay for equal work, and circumvention of working-time regulation.
At a press conference earlier that day Jack O’Connor said that the growing use of labour agencies by employers as a substitute for directly recruiting staff posed a grave threat to the living standards of workers.
Jack O'Connor again signalled that he did not see how a new 26-County agreement could be negotiated if this issue was not addressed.
"We cannot overstate the importance of this issue. Every syllable of employment protection legislation ever enacted in this country is being circumvented and rendered useless by unscrupulous employers who see the use of labour agencies as the most effective means of exploitation since the abolition of the slave trade 200 years ago."
Siptu has argued that the 26-County state is one of only three EU states in which temporary workers recruited through agencies can be employed on lesser terms and conditions to those directly employed.
The union said that between 2002 and 2003 there was a 68 per cent increase in temporary agency work placements in the 26-Counties. It said in the first quarter of 2005 the Central Statistics Office estimated that there were 27,000 temporary agency workers employed in the 26-Counties- about 2 per cent of the total workforce.
Jack O'Connor said a new underclass of people was being created who had absolutely no rights in the workplace.
Agency workers had no contract of employment with their beneficial employer, on which all employment legislation turned.
He said the 26-Counties was one of four countries that were blocking the adoption of an EU directive in this area.
"Very soon the Government will have to decide between whatever benefits it believes are being derived from the exploitation of vulnerable people and the continuation of social partnership.
"Because it may well be that they can have one or the other but they cannot have both."
The launch of the Siptu campaign included a number of current and former agency workers who gave details of their experiences.
Conor O'Gorman said he had been working for a construction agency for three years.
On one site a Polish man was working Saturdays and Sundays, and was not being paid overtime rates as he was entitled to under the national agreement.
"One the same site another Polish worker was asked by his foreman two days before his holidays if he would be willing to work the holidays. He said he could not as he was going back to Poland He was told that if he went back to Poland not to bother returning to Dublin as he would not have a job anymore."
14. PRIESTS PROPOSE NEW CORRIB OPTION
THREE north Mayo priests have called on 26-County Minister for Energy Eamon Ryan to consider an alternative location on the Erris coastline for the Corrib gas refinery.
The three priests, Fr Michael Nallen, Fr Michael Gilroy and Fr Sean Noone of Kilcommon parish, have identified Glinsk, near Belderrig, Co Mayo, as an alternative to Bellanaboy, where the refinery is at the early stages of construction.
The same location was identified by Shell consultants, RPS, last summer as a potential landfall during initial work on modifying onshore pipeline routes. However, the consultants are not involved in any aspect of the refinery, and have since narrowed the routes down to exclude this option.
The priests believe that by locating the actual refinery at Glinsk, it would avoid an onshore pipeline of any significant length, and would help to resolve what they describe as the "current impasse".
The current refinery at Bellanaboy is located within the Carrowmore lake drinking water catchment, supplying 10,000 people. The priests claim the outfall pipe could have a "potential negative impact" on the local fishing industry and the environmental integrity of Broadhaven.
Glinsk has no housing within several miles of the exposed area of bogland, but Shell consultants had noted in their assessment for the pipeline survey that the exposed landfall had steep cliffs of greater than 50 metres. It also adjoins the Glenamoy bog complex special area of conservation.
The priests say they believe that running a high-pressure pipe up a cliff-face has been done before and is "technically and economically feasible" and would "comply with the codes of practice and EU directives".
"While there may be conservation issues wherever the refinery is located, we believe it is paramount that human life is protected," the priests state, urging Eamon Ryan to "give serious consideration to this option in an effort to bring the sorry history of this project to a peaceful and just conclusion".
The priests, who are not members of Shell to Sea, have stated that the project as planned "does not have the consent from the community".
In October, in an initial letter to Eamon Ryan, they questioned how "promotional material" distributed by the Corrib gas developers could "validly claim community status".
"We wish to reiterate that we believe most people are not opposed to the gas coming ashore. Benefits for community and country are something that most people would welcome.
"It should be possible to achieve this goal in an environmentally and community friendly way without the flaws which are linked to the Bellanaboy site," they have stressed in their new letter.
PROVOS ‘SILENCE’ COLOMBIA 3 AUTHOR
THE Provisionals were accused of “silencing” Colombia Three member James Monaghan after he withdrew co-operation from the publicity campaign for his new book.
It is alleged that senior figures within the Provisionals did not want Jim Monaghan taking questions on TV or radio about the controversial matters covered by the book.
Jim Monaghan was one of the three men arrested in Colombia in 2001 on charges of providing explosives training to that country’s Marxist rebel group FARC.
His book, Colombia Jail Journal, was launched in Dublin, on November 20.
But its launch was overshadowed by controversy after the book’s publisher, Brandon, said the Provisionals had ordered Monaghan not to participate in broadcast interviews.
“We undertook publication of this book in good faith and under the terms of a contract which, among other things, committed the author to co-operate with our promotional efforts,” said Brandon.
“However, to our complete surprise, the author has withdrawn from any co-operation with broadcast media, calling a halt in particular to discussions about his proposed appearance on the Late Late Show. He has done so on the orders of the republican movement (sic).”
Asked why the Provos may have wanted to silence Jim Monaghan, Steve McDonagh of Brandon said it may have been because Jim Monaghan discussed in the book the time he spent with FARC.
Monaghan maintains in the book he was in Colombia to study a ceasefire which was in operation at the time.
The row is all the stranger considering Brandon has previously published a number of books by Gerry Adams.
Jim Monaghan, Niall Connolly and Martin McCauley were found guilty of travelling on false passports but initially acquitted of the bomb-training charges.
However, a higher court later overturned the acquittals and sentenced the men to 17 years in prison. But by that time, they had jumped bail and fled Colombia.