A British court in Ireland has imposed a fine on Lasair Dhearg Vice-Chairperson Pádraic MacCoitir. The fine relates to charges of “criminal damage” which were brought in relation to an action conducted by Lasair Dhearg two years ago in support of Palestine and to highlight the complicity of the BBC in the ongoing genocide.
During that action, posters were erected on the BBC Headquarters in Belfast, which included the names of journalists murdered by the Zionist regime, and red paint was daubed across the front exterior of the building.
Pádraic, a Political ex-Prisoner and former Blanketman, has stipulated that he will not be paying the fine, regardless of the consequences, and he will likely face two weeks in jail as a consequence. Speaking outside the court, he said:
“Moments ago, the British court behind me imposed a £420 fine because of action we took more than 2 years ago against the BBC in Belfast.”
“Regardless of the consequences, this fine will not be paid. To do so would be to accept the criminalisation of our activism. Any repercussions will be tiny compared to the suffering of those in Palestine who continue to be on the receiving end of a genocidal onslaught.”
“When Lasair Dhearg targeted the BBC, we did so to highlight the murder of more than 120 journalists by the Zionist regime. Since then this number has more than doubled.”
“History will look back with unbridled contempt on those who facilitate genocide through their courts and media, and criminalise and suppress those opposing it.”
“British courts will not deter our support for Palestine and their right to resist occupation and the genocide of their people.”
“Lasair Dhearg sends solidarity and well wishes to the Palestinian resistance. May victory be yours. Tiocfaidh ár lá.”
