Republican prisoners in Portlaoise Prison on hunger strike in support of imprisoned Palestinian activist

Portlaoise Prison where prisoners are on hunger strike. Picture: Photocall Ireland

Irish Republican prisoners in Portlaoise Prison have started a two-week hunger strike in support of a Palestinian doctor they claim is being housed in “appalling conditions” at Maghaberry Prison in Co Antrim.

Dr Issam Hijjawi, who is an outspoken activist for Palestinian rights and lives in Edinburgh, was arrested last month over his attendance of a meeting of alleged members of the New IRA in Omagh.