Part VII - Prisoners and Ex-prisoners

While prisoner-of-war release went relatively smoothly, despite having clearly qualified for release under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement, 5 Republicans remain behind bars in the 26 Counties.

Punitive laws exist which discriminates against ex-prisoners integration into society. In addition, there is serious societal discrimination to deny employment to ex-prisoners.

Two studies by the University of Ulster found:

1) Over 75% can t find any employment;

2) 58% ex-POWs are in poor or very poor health; and,

3) 75% suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder.

(Click for further info: INA Coiste Report -- from the current web site)