Irish Republican News · December 30, 2005

Former hunger striker dies

Former hunger striker and Sinn Féin activist Matt Devlin has died in hospital after an illness.

The 55-year-old had been part of the H-Block hunger strike of 1981 in which ten Republican prisoners died, including Bobby Sands.

Mr Devlin joined the protest on July 14 1981 before coming off on September 5.

It is thought his body never recovered fully from the agony suffered during the strike.

Mr Devlin died in Belfast City Hospital on Wednesday. He is survived by his partner Geraldine, son Matthew and stepson Declan.

He was born in Ardboe, County Tyrone but lived in Tang, Co Westmeath, in recent years where he contested the last local elections in the area for Sinn Féin.

Party general secretary and Foyle assembly member Mitchel McLaughlin express-ed his sorrow at Mr Devlin’s death last night.

“It is with deep regret that I learned of the death of Tyrone Republican and hunger striker Matt Devlin today,” he said.

“Matt was on both the blanket protest and the hunger strike in the summer of 1981.

“On behalf of Sinn Féin I want to extend my deepest sympathy to Matt’s family and friends.”

Urgent Appeal

Despite increasing support for Irish freedom and unity, we need your help to overcome British and unionist intransigence. We can end the denial of our rights in relation to Brexit, the Irish language, a border poll and legacy issues, with your support.

Please support IRN now to help us continue reporting and campaigning for our national rights. Even one pound a month can make a big difference for us.

Your contribution can be made with a credit or debit card by clicking below. A continuing monthly donation of £2 or more will give you full access to this site. Thank you. Go raibh míle maith agat.