BY SEAN GARLAND
BELFAST - More working people are getting out onto the streets here since the cease-fire, fighting for the release of all political prisoners, the troops to get out, and the disbandment of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. On Sunday, May 7, a crowd of 5,000 marched through west Belfast to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Maze Prison hunger strikes. In 1981 10 Irish prisoners died after going on hunger strike to demand political status.

A lot of young people were out demanding the release of political prisoners and the withdrawal of British troops. Many were wearing green ribbons in support of the political prisoners and carrying Saiorse placards. More young people were on this year's march than previous ones. The Militant attracted the attention of rally participants. People around the world now know that the British government is treating the Irish people unfairly.

I can see peace coming to Ireland only if British prime minister John Major's government talks to all parties. I also see more people getting out in the streets to take action.

There have been other actions in the last few months that I have taken part in. One was a counter-protest against right- wing groups picketing the Cuban film Strawberry and Chocolate. The movie was shown despite the protest. Another counter-picket happened when the Free Presbyterians, a right-wing Protestant group, and Youth Defense, a right-wing Catholic group, picketed at the "Mr. Gay UK" contest at a gay nightclub in Belfast. Two dozen people came to the counter protest, chanting, "Homophobia no way, gay rights are here to stay."

Sean Garland is a member of the Young Socialists in Belfast.  
 
 
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