11 February 1999 Edition
Back issue: Six continue on the blanket
The system suffered by the four POW's `on the blanket' in Albany prison, Isle of Wight, since 8th October last becomes more and more repressive daily. The POW's continue to be in good spirits despite unceasing daily harassment.
The latest escalation has been the removal of the mattress from their cells at night, leaving them to sleep on wooden planks, set on top of concrete blocks. In addition they now recieve their mail only once a fortnight.
The four POW's Anthony Cunningham, Liam Baker, both from Belfast, Robert Cunningham (Tyrone) and Patrick Guilfoyle (Tipperary), are, of course, totally segregated from the other Irish POW's and the prisoners generally. Their cells are totally devoid of furniture since protests started about prison conditions last May. Every morning the screws still hose down the general area where the POW's are held. No cigarettes, family photos, watches or radios are allowed.
The latest escalation has been the removal of the mattress from their cells at night, leaving them to sleep on wooden planks, set on top of concrete blocks. In addition they now recieve their mail only once a fortnight.
The four POW's Anthony Cunningham, Liam Baker, both from Belfast, Robert Cunningham (Tyrone) and Patrick Guilfoyle (Tipperary), are, of course, totally segregated from the other Irish POW's and the prisoners generally. Their cells are totally devoid of furniture since protests started about prison conditions last May. Every morning the screws still hose down the general area where the POW's are held. No cigarettes, family photos, watches or radios are allowed.