Hunger strike action stopped

Illegal immigrants, who had been on hunger strike since February 26, stopped their action yesterday following the intervention of Peace Lab officials.

A total of 37 detainees had been on hunger strike at Hal Far detention centre to protest over prolonged detention. Several had to receive hospital treatment.

A hunger striker who contacted The Times last week said they were only taking water and glucose. There are currently 220 illegal immigrants in detention.

Fr Dionysius Mintoff, Peace Lab director, said his organisation was trying to build up a culture of dialogue, which in turn would create the environment in which political leaders could give more attention to the question of human rights and freedom.

Home Affairs and Justice Minister Tonio Borg said that a new law was being drafted that would allow illegal immigrants, who felt they had been detained for an unreasonable time to appeal for release before a special board.