1981 Hunger Strike 40th Anniversary : Fundraising runs for Derry H-Block monument works will adhere to COVID regulations

Sinn Fein Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney pictured previously at the memorial on Rossville Street.

Former Hunger Striker, Raymond McCartney said that as previously announced, the two runs, which will involve 22 runners “to recognise the number of Hunger Strikers to have died in the different phases of the struggle”, will take place on March 1 to mark the beginning of the 1981 Strike and October 3 to recognise the ending of it.

“Unfortunately, due to the ongoing Covid restrictions, the first run on 1st March will have to take place adhering strictly to the Covid Health regulations. This means that all 22 runners will not be able to participate as a group but will do so within the guidelines. We are hopeful that the second run to coincide with the date of the ending of The Hunger Strike on October 3 will be able to proceed in more normal circumstances.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the 22 persons who have volunteered to partake in the runs and a very special thank you to all those who have made contributions to the refurbishment fund.

“The 81 Committee have drawn up quite ambitious plans for the H-Block Monument which will be a lasting and fitting tribute to the bravery of those who gave their lives on Hunger Strike down through the decades. I would appeal to anyone who wishes to contribute to the ongoing fundraising efforts to visit the ‘Remembering 81 Committee’ Facebook page which will facilitate on-line contributions to Derry Republican Graves Association. Go raibh mile maith agaibh go léir”