Polish mercenaries not welcome

RSF has called on the Polish community not to seek enlistment in the RUC.

POLISH MERCENARIES NOT WELCOME

Republican Sinn Féin condemns all Irish people who have either enlisted in or applied to join the British Colonial Police (RUC/PSNI). The RUC is the first line of defence for English rule in Ireland, and work in conjunction with other sections of the British Crown Forces. By doing so they are labelling themselves enemies of the Irish people. In fact as recently as the 17th January the RUC once again showed their true colours in Lurgan, Co. Armagh, when they raided several homes – seizing PlayStations and copies of the Republican monthly organ (SAOIRSE) – and arrested two people.

At a recent meeting of Comhairle Uladh (Ulster Executive) concern was expressed over recent reports in the media concerning foreign recruitment to the RUC. Whilst Republican Sinn Féin welcomes migrant workers of every race and creed who play an important role within the Irish workforce, the revelation that almost 1,000 Poles have applied to join the RUC in an apparent effort to fulfil their sectarian headcount in relation to recruits from a Catholic background is deeply disturbing.

We wish to state categorically that the Polish people should not allow themselves to become involved in a dispute which is not their own. As representatives of a Nation which has suffered occupation under successive malign powers, and was partitioned out of existence, members of the Polish community should know better than to collaborate with an occupying power. The actions of those who seek enlistment in the RUC can only be judged as those of mercenaries.

Our position on the current issue is very clear: the only attitude of true Republicans to the British Colonial Police is one of eternal hostility.

ENDS