Hunger striker calls off protest

AS AN impoverished Tom Sweeney was brought into Leinster House to be examined by four TD doctors, the Dáil restaurant was busy, with many unaware of the drama playing out just outside the gates.

Looking weary and weak, Mr Sweeney had been on hunger strike for 22 days, in protest at the fact that his original award of €113,000 by the Redress Board was reduced by €40,000 after he requested a full hearing.

The protest struck a chord with many abuse victims who increasingly feel the Redress Board is punishing those who wish to tell their story.

And even as the Government finally forwarded proposals to his legal team yesterday afternoon, Mr Sweeney remained determined.

“I’m grand and I’m not grand. I’m here 22 days and it is affecting me. I feel I’m weaker but I’m still strong of mind. That’s important,” said Mr Sweeney.

As he fought off hunger, thoughts of his two grandchildren, due to have first communion on Saturday, kept him strong.

“The most important thing in my life is seeing them two on Saturday,” he said.

Cheers and tears greeted him as he emerged from a briefing with his legal team to call off his hunger strike.

“I don’t care about the money. Once they hear my story, I’ll accept their hearing,” he said.