Inequality in the treatment of republicans and loyalists when it comes to receiving bail was highlighted this week when a loyalist charged with possession of an assault rifle and large quantities of drugs and cash, and two others accused of forcing a young Catholic family to flee their home, were all quickly released on bail.

In contrast, over half of republican prisoners at Roe House Maghaberry have now been held without trial for periods of up to three years, while two female prisoners have now been held without trial for a total of 5 years and 6 months.

The Irish Republican Prisoners Welfare Association has hit out at the systematic use of internment by remand against republicans.