A GROUP of protesters gathered in Crolly last weekend to show their ongoing support of the Palestinians and a group of Palestine Action prisoners currently on hunger strike in England.
Those gathered at the Crolly Bridge on Saturday afternoon waved Palestinian flags to show their solidarity with the hunger strikers who are nearing 60 days without food and experiencing serious health decline.
Protesters at Crolly Bridge on Saturday.
The protest was organised by local Councillor Michéal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig, who spoke of our “obligation” to support the brave young people on hunger strike.
“In Ireland, we have a deep understanding of the impact of hunger strike. Over the years, 23 Irishmen have died refusing food while imprisoned.
“We are only too well aware of this aspect of our history and much of it within living memory.”
Cllr Michéal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig who helped organise the event.
The independent councillor spoke of the campaigning during the 1970s in support of local men Pat Ward and Donall De Barra, and the support for Bobby Sands and his gallant comrades in the H-Blocks.
He compared this to those on hunger strikes in England, who are also demanding justice.
“As we have known for centuries, there is very little justice for those who oppose or even expose Britain’s crimes.
“In this case, those on hunger strike have been imprisoned for highlighting British complicity in the genocide being carried out against the Palestinian people of Gaza,” he said.
Donegal Deputy Pearse Doherty along with Brendan Devenney at Saturday’s protest. Photos: Sean Hillen.
