23 June 2005 Edition

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Join the Castlerea Bike Run

Last September, a few republicans organised an event which bought a new meaning to being on the run — a motorcycle run to Castlerea prison to raise funds for prisoners' dependents. Organisers Neil O'Sullivan and Donie Griffin said it was not only a fundraiser but also to raise awareness of republican prisoners, some of whom should have been freed years ago under the trems of the Good Friday Agreement.

The run started out as a Munster event but with the help of the Saoirse Bike Club it snowballed around the country. On the day, motorikes set out from around the country for the Roscommon town, some travelling 200 miles in fairly rough weather. From Roscommon over 70 bikes travelled in convoy to the gates of Castlerea prison. The lads inside could hear it from miles away.

A delegation of bikers visited the prisoners and presented a cheque to a representative of their families. Afterwards, a rock night was held locally with the partners of some of the prisoners in attendance.

The Unrepentant Fenian Bikers would like to thank all who participated and helped in this very successful event, in particular the Ballaghaderreen Sinn Féin cumann, for the badly needed food.

On 23 July this year they are doing it all again, so any bikers out there who would like to help contact Donie Griffin (087 2361096) or Neil O'Sullivan (086 1020220) and sign up for a good cause, great craic and the ride of your life (within speed limits). All are welcome.


An Phoblacht
44 Parnell Sq.
Dublin 1
Ireland