Lorraine Taylor with her husband Tony Taylor who is now approaching his second year behind bars on the word of MI5 spooks
THE wife of Derry republican Tony Taylor has spoken about his continued detention in Maghaberry prison as he approaches his second anniversary of being thrown back in jail on the word of MI5 spooks.
Tony Taylor’s early release licence was revoked in March 2016 by the then British Secretary of State Theresa Villiers.
Politicians from across Derry as well as human rights campaigners have called for Mr Taylor to be released, saying any evidence by the British state should have been put before the judge who sentenced him at Belfast Crown Court.
He was jailed after he was caught in possession of a rifle in 2011 but was released in 2014.
However, Theresa Villiers received a file from MI5 and as a result his release licence was revoked by the Parole Commissioners and he was returned to Maghaberry jail.
The father of one son and two daughters is currently suing the NIO over his continued detention.
His wife Lorraine said his return to jail and his continued incarceration had left his family “traumatised”.
Speaking at the Ard Fheis of the dissident republican political group Saoradh in Derry at the weekend, Mrs Taylor said:
“Tony’s continued absence is having a devastating impact on the family.
“I am at my wits end to understand how the British government, after nearly two years, can be allowed to keep Tony in prison without any due legal process.
“In reality, this is internment without trial.
“As a family we are physically and mentally drained both because of Tony’s continued detention and his absence from his family.
“I would also wish to outline the impact of his detention on his elderly parents, both of which are not in good health,” added Mrs Taylor.
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