MP calls for prison deaths inquiry

by Democrat reporter

WESTMINSTER MP and Irish-rights campaigner John McDonnell has called upon the government to conduct an immediate public inquiry into the deaths of Irish prisoners at Brixton prison.

The move, which follows an earlier call by four Labour MPs for an independent review, came after another Irish prisoner, Terry Doyle, was found hanging in his cell on 9 May.

Mr Doyle’s death brings the total number of Irish prisoners who have been found hanged at Brixton prison since 1999 to six. Allegations of widespread anti-Irish racism amongst prison staff have come to the fore in recent years.

In a statement following the latest death, Marianne Fagan, the widow of Derek Fagan, one of those who have died in Brixton prison, appealed for the families of those who had died in custody to get in touch with the deaths in custody campaign, CEART.

For further information about CEART contact them at PO Box 29644, London E2 8TS; tel 07931 844969 (Terry Stewart); 07754 982542 (Jimmy Doyle) or 020 75644301 (Jodie Clarke)