Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs, Seán Crowe TD, has called for the immediate release of artist and peace activist Margaretta D’Arcy.

D’Arcy is 79 years of age, is in ill health, and is currently being treated for cancer.

Deputy Seán Crowe said:

“Margaretta D’Arcy was arrested and convicted for protesting at the use of Shannon Airport by the US military en route to wage war in the Middle East.

“Her outspoken stand and activism in bringing attention to the use of civilian airports for illegal rendition and foreign wars has been unwavering.

“Margaretta D’Arcy should be released immediately. She is not a criminal and poses no threat or danger to anyone.

“Jailing an elderly woman, with Parkinson’s disease, who uses a Zimmer Frame and who is receiving treatment for cancer is not something that any reasonable person or State could view as being fair or just.

“Successive Irish governments have failed to inspect any planes in Shannon, and allowed CIA rendition flights to stop and refuel.

“They have also allowed and facilitated the continued militarisation of a civilian airport.

“Rather than addressing these important issues, the State’s sole focus has been to harass and intimidate a handful of peace activists, and the arrest and jailing of a non-violent 79-year-old woman is however a new low.

“I am calling for the Minister for Justice to end this appalling situation and to initiate a process that will lead to the immediate release, on humanitarian grounds, of Margareta D’Arcy.”

ENDS