Afghan hunger strike - Interests of State must come first

Regrettable though it is that six of the 35 hunger-striking Afghans in Dublin had to receive hospital treatment, it was an inevitable outcome of the course of action they embarked upon.

It was a desperate action to have recourse to, but it could never achieve its objective of getting an audience with Justice Minister Michael McDowell. Neither he, nor the State, could allow what amounted to blackmail to dictate the course of events.

Their hunger strike in St Patrick’s Cathedral is similar to what is happening across Belgium where illegal immigrants are demanding a change in the law.

Were the asylum seekers in Dublin to accomplish what they want, which is to remain in Ireland, it would point to our immigration laws and procedures being ineffective.

Immigration officials met with the men, some of whom have had their applications rejected and others of whom are still waiting, and who have pleaded that they are at risk of torture and death if they are sent home.

It is a bid to resolve the situation, but not on the terms imposed by the hunger strikers, something which is only too familiar in this country.

It is a case that must be treated with compassion, while protecting the interests of the State.