Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge the fact that the Tánaiste met the group that travelled to Maghaberry and I know that he has made representations to the Secretary of State, Ms Theresa Villiers, MP. However, there appears to be a large grey area. Marian Price and her late sister, Dolours, were given a royal prerogative of mercy in May 1980. Her solicitor gave her the impression that it covered all of the sentences and was not subject to licence. There now appears to be circumstantial evidence to the effect that it is subject to licence. The Northern authorities seem to be misusing this process. Article 9 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states: "No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile." She has been subjected, as have other prisoners who we will discuss later.

Will the Tánaiste make representations to the Minister of Justice? Under Article 7 of the Life Sentences (Northern Ireland) Order 2001, the Minister has the power to release Marian Price on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. Those of us who visited last week saw a serious deterioration in her physical, mental and emotional health. There are grave fears for her. The review will take place at the beginning of March and will be conducted by the Parole Commissioners for Northern Ireland, who were appointed by the Secretary of State. Where is the fairness?

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