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.