Former prison officers call for Maze site input in the North

Former prison officers today demanded to be consulted on the future of the Maze.

The Retired Prison Officers’ Fellowship said it was vital its members had an opportunity to contribute to plans for a Conflict Resolution Centre on the site.

The Government has proposed to build the interpretative centre as part of the national stadium development.

A group of retired officers toured the site today.

Afterwards, chair of the fellowship, Phil Price said many of his former colleagues were worried the development would place too much emphasis on the paramilitary dimension.

He said it was important the experience of prison officers was not overlooked.

“We are concerned, as are many people, that the emphasis on the Maze site seems to be the paramilitary influence on the troubles in Northern Ireland,” said Mr Price.

“We were worried in terms of every time we picked up a paper all the talk seemed to be about a paramilitary shrine.

“Retired prison officers feel that their side of the story needs to be told; the story can’t be told without their input.

Mr Price said he was “very impressed” with the concept of a resolution centre.

“We are just hoping we will have an input when it comes to developing it,” he added.

He said the fellowship would like to see a specific area designated for former officers.

“Members want to make sure there is a site for staff members,” he said. The hospital block is being retained for republican prisons and there is a H block for loyalists.”

Mr Price suggested the area at the prison gate could be restored as part of a prison officer exhibition.

“It would be place former staff could go and reflect and look at old photos,” he explained.