11 June 1998 Edition

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Gardai attack anti-mast protestors

Gardai protecting an ESAT phone mast site attacked women and other peaceful demonstrators in Keel, Achill Sound, Mayo. 117 gardai - some in riot gear - formed a human chain around the Garda station to hold back 300 locals and allow the mast to be built.

A dozen people broke through and clambered onto the mast. One woman was attacked by six gardai, who punched her, bent her fingers backwards, lifted up her leg and slammed it down on a bar. They said; ``Now you'll fucking move.'' A mother of ten was dragged along the ground, thrown on the floor, kneed in the back and handcuffs snapped onto her. Five people were arrested and kept handcuffed for eight hours - without access to lawyers or even food.

Locals have vowed to continue the fight.

An Phoblacht
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Dublin 1
Ireland