Sinn Féin appeals to Justice Minister to let Martin Corey attend brother's funeral

SINN FÉIN MLA John O’Dowd has called on Justice Minister David Ford to reverse his decision to deny Martin Corey compassionate parole to attend his brother’s funeral on Thursday.

Released in 1992, Martin Corey was returned to prison over two years ago after his licence was revoked. His brother Peter’s funeral is to take place on Thursday.

John O’Dowd said:

“Martin Corey is being held on the whim of the British Secretary of State without any charges being brought against him. His detention without charge is totally unacceptable and he should be released immediately. If evidence exists of wrong doing against anyone then the proper course of action is to present the evidence in a court of law.

“This decision not to grant him compassionate parole to attend his brother’s funeral is punitive and cruel. At the height of the conflict prisoners were granted compassionate parole to attend the funerals of their relatives. This decision is draconian.

“On a humanitarian level, David Ford should reverse this decision and release Martin Corey so that he can attend his brother’s funeral.”