Two women from Belfast, Fionnuala Nic Thom and Ciara Hawkins, have come forward with harrowing claims regarding their treatment by Gardaí during a peaceful protest outside Leinster House in March. Arrested during a vigil organised by Mothers Against Genocide, they allege they were subjected to degrading strip-searches that they believe echo darker times from Northern Ireland’s past.

The vigil, held in honour of Palestinian children affected by recent violence, was ostensibly peaceful, with participants creating a shrine and engaging in reflective activities. Nic Thom described the atmosphere as “heartbreaking” and “beautiful.” However, the serenity was abruptly shattered at around 6am when Garda officers, according to Nic Thom, aggressively dismantled their shrine and removed individuals from the protest site. Both women reported being forcibly taken to different Garda stations where the strip-searching occurred.

Their experience has led them to demand a public apology from Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan, particularly in light of his previous statement labelling their allegations as “false.” Nic Thom emotionally recounted her ordeal, stating, “I felt degraded being strip-searched by a young woman… who obviously comes from the south and hadn’t lived the life that we lived up here during our own occupation.” This striking parallel to their experiences during the Troubles resonates deeply with them, suggesting that historical trauma lingers close to the surface in the context of their recent experiences.

Furthermore, the issue of policing methods has sparked considerable debate. Laura Murphy, a poet and activist, has also called for an apology in an open letter to the Minister, arguing that the Garda response was disproportionate, especially towards predominantly female, non-violent protests. She highlighted a protester’s account of being stripped naked and subjected to a cavity search, placing immense emotional burden on individuals during an act meant to be peaceful and respectful.

Despite the serious allegations, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has firmly denied any wrongdoing, declaring that video evidence supports the assertion that search procedures were conducted in line with regulations governing the treatment of persons in custody. In a statement, he noted that all searches adhered to legal standards, refuting claims of any cavity searches. This stance has led to tensions between the protesters’ accounts and official reports, especially following comments made by various TDs in the Dáil that supported the women’s claims.

Public concern has reached a level where the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission received numerous complaints from citizens regarding the treatment of protesters, reflecting a growing distrust in how these events are handled. Amnesty International has voiced its apprehension about the potential chilling effects on the right to protest in Ireland, adding that the increase in police force’s presence and actions during demonstrations may deter individuals from exercising their right to peaceful assembly.

In light of these developments, Mothers Against Genocide have asserted that they will not be silenced, echoing their commitment to represent the voices of mothers affected by the ongoing conflict in Palestine. As they seek legal advice to challenge the legality of their arrests, their resolve remains firm. “Free Palestine,” they proclaim, underscoring a dedication that transcends their treatment at the hands of the state security apparatus.

The tension between their deeply felt convictions and the official narrative has created a critical conversation regarding policing practices, accountability, and the importance of respectful engagement in public protest, especially when dealing with sensitive and emotive political issues.

Source: Noah Wire Services