Nothing but a date
Nothing but a date
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By Anthony McIntyre (the Pensive Quill)

It cannot be easy being a republican political prisoner in the North these days. So few in number those unfortunate enough to find themselves on the inside are up against it. The prison system is desperate not to cede any ground and will draw on the accumulated experience of vindictiveness to keep the political prisoners in check. Prison management is also aware that it is unlikely to be held to account. Sinn Fein, who benefited most from the anti-criminalisation campaign of the 1970s and 80s, has crossed the line to stand beside the British and tag the label ‘criminal’ onto republican prisoners. The party’s current position has it implementing British policy to the hilt as it finds itself, seemingly without shame, standing shoulder to shoulder with the DUP, criminalising republicans and legitimising Paisleyism. Small wonder the prison authorities proceed with impunity to implement a harsh regime.

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