31.8.04
IRA2
Republicans ask UN for Maze recognition
Catherine Morrison
Irish News
A republican ex-prisoners group is to apply to the United Nations to
have the former Maze prison designated a world heritage site.
Sinn Féin has backed the move and called on the UN's Education,
Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) to consider bestowing
the prestigious title on the controversial site.
If successful, the Maze would join the Vatican city, the Great Wall
of China and Venice on the list of protected places around the world.
Republicans believe at least one of the infamous H-blocks should be
preserved as a reminder of a turbulent period of the north's history.
"There are a number of historical and cultural site around the world
which Unesco have considered as world heritage sites," Lisburn
councillor Paul Butler said.
"These have included Robben Island in South Africa and Kilmainham
jail in the south of Ireland.
"We believe that Long Kesh should stand alongside other important
historical sites throughout the world."
Mr Butler said a museum and peace campus would bring tourists to the
area and put Lisburn city on the map.
"If part of this former prison were turned into a museum, it would be
an attraction of international standing," he said.
"It would also help give future generations an insight and
understanding into the last 30 years of conflict here."
August 31, 2004
Republicans ask UN for Maze recognition
Catherine Morrison
Irish News
A republican ex-prisoners group is to apply to the United Nations to
have the former Maze prison designated a world heritage site.
Sinn Féin has backed the move and called on the UN's Education,
Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) to consider bestowing
the prestigious title on the controversial site.
If successful, the Maze would join the Vatican city, the Great Wall
of China and Venice on the list of protected places around the world.
Republicans believe at least one of the infamous H-blocks should be
preserved as a reminder of a turbulent period of the north's history.
"There are a number of historical and cultural site around the world
which Unesco have considered as world heritage sites," Lisburn
councillor Paul Butler said.
"These have included Robben Island in South Africa and Kilmainham
jail in the south of Ireland.
"We believe that Long Kesh should stand alongside other important
historical sites throughout the world."
Mr Butler said a museum and peace campus would bring tourists to the
area and put Lisburn city on the map.
"If part of this former prison were turned into a museum, it would be
an attraction of international standing," he said.
"It would also help give future generations an insight and
understanding into the last 30 years of conflict here."
August 31, 2004
