The surviving ‘hooded men’ who say they were tortured at Co Derry British Army base in 1917
SINN Féin’s Private Members Motion motion calling on the Irish Government to appeal the judgement that the Hooded Men endured so called “degrading and inhuman treatment” as opposed to torture during internment without trial, has passed unanimously in the Seanad.
Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney said;
“I would like to commend Seanadóir Niall Ó Donnghaile on the work he has done highlighting the case of the Hooded Men and getting support from his colleagues across the Seanad for this motion. It sends a clear and significant message to the Irish Government that they should continue on the legal journey they began in 1971 and see it through until justice and truth is achieved.
“There is no doubt that the men endured torture, and the initial finding of torture by European Commission in relation to this case should be upheld.
“The latest judgement focused on a narrow legal technically and not the broader case of torture.
“The Irish government should champion the cause of justice, truth and rights on the international stage and not only ensure justice for the men involved in this case but those victims of torture around the world where states use this judgement as cover for their activities.
Seanadóir Niall Ó Donnghaile with one of the Hooded Men outside the Seanad in Dublin
“The dignity of the Hooded Men remains an inspiration and their long campaign for justice continues to draw support and endorsement across politics and society and indeed throughout the world.”
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