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In 1981 The IRA, in conjunction with the INLA, and in response to the continued british mistreatment of their prisoners, undertook a hunger strike in order to regain the political status long denied. As a result of this, ten brave men died showing the world the strength of resolve of the Irish, and the inhumanity of the english oppressors. These men were political prisoners who had fought for their country. They were not "terrorists" as the british claimed. They deserved political status just as the men who are continuing the struggle today deserve. The GFA (Good Friday Agreement) in 1998 took away the status these men fought for. The men who continue to resist are true P.O.W.s when they are incarcerated, but once again, they must fight for their rights as such. Volunteer Bobby Sands 5 May 1981 - 66 days - IRA Volunteer Francis Hughes 12 May 1981 - 59 days - IRA Volunteer Patsy O'Hara 21 May 1981 - 61 days - INLA Volunteer Raymond McCreesh 21 May 1981 - 61 days - IRA Volunteer Joe McDonell 8 July 1981 - 61 days - IRA Volunteer Martin Hurson 13 July 1981 - 46 days - IRA Volunteer Kevin Lynch 1 August 1981 - 71 days - INLA Volunteer Kieran Doherty 2 August 1981 - 73 days - IRA Volunteer Thomas McElwee 8 August 1981 - 62 days - IRA Volunteer Mickey Devine 20 August 1981 - 60 days - INLA Gone but never forgotten, these brave men deserve the utmost respect for the sacrifice they gave. May they Rest In Peace.
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