Independent Media Centre Ireland     http://www.indymedia.ie

State tries to muzzle debate

category international | anti-war / imperialism | news report author Thursday October 11, 2007 22:37author by Seán Ryan

There was a protest today outside the Department of Justice to demand that the State not attempt to impose censorship on activists.
Even when you bring the news to them they will not bring it to you
Even when you bring the news to them they will not bring it to you

A small group of Anti-War activists (15 or so) gathered today 11-10-07 outside the Department of Justice to protest against the State stomping upon free speech and free association. The Hypocrites in Government and opposition, despite whinging and wailing about democratic rights and rights of peaceful protest in the likes of Burma, have actively conspired on behalf of their American betters and masters, to prevent Ibrahim Mussawi from entering Ireland and addressing the international peace conference on Saturday.

Alan Shatter, a man known for his vow of secrecy and silence, with regard to important issues like Rossport, Tara and the illegal facilitation of the US war machine's illegal wars, has tried to impose his philosophy on Anti-War activists after being instructed by his non-Irish masters to do so.

The fence sitters in Government have complied with Mr. Shatter's 'requests' by doing nothing beause they didn't want to be seen to be actively trouncing democratic values. Instead they have in a weak and cowardly fashion delayed on granting Ibrahim Mussawi a visa to enter our country. It is now too late and Mr. Mussawi will not be present to take part in the talks.

Undeterred the IAWM have arranged to have Mr. Mussawi address the conference by either using a video link-up or by phone. Those who choose to attempt to sully democratic values by silencing debate will never succeed.

The Greens when contacted by the IAWM in order to see if they might have input in a resolution to this mockery of democracy, via exercising their rights to free speech as part of the current government, have maintained their recent form and have practiced the code of Omerta on behalf of their FF brethren.

Another two speakers who were due to address the conference will not be coming to Ireland either. Current events and no doubt the attitude and the complicity of our government with regard to current events have driven them into hiding in fear of their lives. I'm sure Mr. Shatter and his 'friends' will be very happy at this development.

Regardless, the Anti-War conference will go ahead as planned. Fear of murder and oppression have never deterred activists in the past and will not cow activists now.

Fianna fail attempt to stamp out free speech:- http://www.indymedia.ie/article/84585

Getting ready for the protest
Getting ready for the protest

Agree or disagree, it'll be educational nonetheless
Agree or disagree, it'll be educational nonetheless

A representation of the non-silent majority
A representation of the non-silent majority


http://www.indymedia.ie/article/84621

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