End Harassment of Basque Community in Belfast

12/05/09

éirígí spokesperson Breandán Mac Cionnaith has called for tomorrow’s separate legal proceedings against Arturo ‘Beñat’ Villanueva and former Basque political prisoner and hunger-striker Iñaki de Juana to be ended immediately.

Villanueva was arrested by the PSNI in Belfast last month and brought before a Belfast court, where he was granted bail, Iñaki’s case was heard in March.

At both times over 40 people supported Beñat and Iñaki inside and outside the Court buildings, including éirigí members.

Breandán said:

“These cases should never have reached this stage. These are clear-cut cases of political persecution. The Spanish authorities are seeking to prosecute Arturo on charges relating to membership of an open, political organisation – a Basque pro-independence youth movement. And the British government via the PSNI are only too happy to aid them in their efforts.

“The Irish Basque committee report that Beñat’s case is not an isolated one, it’s part of a broader pattern of repression against the Basque Country. Over the last decade newspapers, political parties, youth groups, cultural associations... have been banned and their members arrested.”

Breandán continued: “Arturo is a well respected member of the community in West Belfast and should be allowed to get on with that life without fear of further persecution.

“It is worrying that this is the second extradition case to be initiated by the Spanish government, and facilitated by the PSNI, against Basque political activists who have choose to live in Ireland.

“Basque pro-independence activist Iñaki de Juana, who is now settled in Belfast, is wanted by the Spanish authorities because of a letter allegedly written by him and read out at his welcoming-home event. The letter ended with a popular Basque saying which can be translated as “forward with the ball”. Iñaki never attended the welcoming party and denies writing the letter. Even the Spanish police say they don’t have such a letter.

“Iñaki, like Arturo should be allowed to reside in Belfast for as long as he wishes. He has chosen West Belfast as his home and we welcome this.

“éirígí extends its solidarity to Arturo and Iñaki at what must be a testing time for both men. I am confident that the community that they have become part of will offer all the support that is needed.”