27 January 2005 Edition

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Electric shock - By Barry McNally (OSF)

The southern electricity company, the ESB, currently supplies electricity to Lisanelly British Army Barracks in Omagh as well as to other British Army installations throughout the Six Counties. The 'contract' involves supplying 24 British Army bases throughout the Six Counties with electricity and is worth £7 million a year.

The question must be asked: why does a southern company wish to help the British establishment 'set up camp' in the north of Ireland? It is less than 100 years since the Black and Tans terrorised the island of Ireland. Why then does ESB find it necessary to aid the following generation of Black and Tans, namely the British Army?

The ESB seems to have forgotten the numerous crimes that the British occupation forces have inflicted against the Irish people. From our actions, we hope to ensure they are reminded of the oppressive and violent nature of British state forces with which it is colluding.

The question also must be asked of the ESB: does it support the oppressive nature of the British occupation forces at work in the North of Ireland? Who knows, maybe their capitalist mindset has got the upper hands of them once more?

I would urge all republicans, young and old(er), in particular Ógra Shinn Féin, to highlight this issue through protest and publicity.

A clear message must be sent to the ESB that republicans will not stand idly by in this collaboration with British forces.


An Phoblacht
44 Parnell Sq.
Dublin 1
Ireland