The jailing of Shell to Sea protestor, Pat O’Donnell, for an incredible seven months is an outrageous attack on the right to protest. Contrary to the statement of Judge Raymond Groarke, Pat O’Donnell is no thug or bully – he is a hero for standing up to Shell to defend the safety of his community.
Pat O'Donnell
The Irish state has played the role of thug and bully in this conflict. They have intimidated, beaten, and repeatedly jailed peaceful protestors for actively opposing the giveaway of €420 billion worth of oil and gas off the west coast of Ireland.
The crime which this represents stands out particularly sharply against the backdrop of recession and attacks on wages and living conditions of working people across Ireland. A small fraction of the amount that has been given away free to Shell would be sufficient to cover the budget deficit and allow significant investment in healthcare and education. Instead, this government, including Green Party Ministers, is prepared to throw people in jail to allow this giveaway to continue, while cutting public services.
This jail sentence is an attempt to intimidate the community from protesting against the major works planned by Shell during the summer. Just like with the Rossport Five, it must be met by an almighty campaign of resistance. The trade union movement in particular has a responsibility to mobilise against this outrage, because this precedent will be used to intimidate all those who oppose the government’s agenda.
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