Markethill campaigner Frazer released from prison
Willie Frazer is greeted by his wife Ann after leaving Maghaberry prison
MARKETHILL victims campaigner Willie Frazer has said he wouldn’t recommend prison to anyone after he was released from Maghaberry yesterday (Thursday).
Speaking following his release on bail, the prominent flag protestor urged young people not to break the law.
The campaigner – who is facing charges of taking part in illegal parades and obstructing traffic – has also spoken of his battle with incurable cancer and the “unbelievable support” he has received from his family and others.
He was greeted at the prison gates by his wife Ann and said he was looking forward to getting back to Markethill.
However, within two hours of arriving home he was visited by police carrying a warning that dissident republicans were planning an attempt on his life.
Mr Frazer has agreed to abide by strict bail conditions imposed by the High Court – including not going within two miles of any Union Flag protest, making public speeches or using the internet to make comments about the ongoing dispute.
Shortly after his release, the 52-year-old told the News Letter, “The amount of support has been unbelievable.
“That encourages you and helps the health as well because that gives you the strength to go on in what I was doing in the first place, and that was fighting for justice for victims.”
Mr Frazer also confirmed that for two days he had shared a cell with fellow flag protestor Jamie Bryson, who has since moved to another wing of the prison.
Looking tired, he confirmed his battle with a carcinoid tumour (of the intestinal tract) and said the prognosis can be dependent on a positive mental attitude. “It could be two years, it could be 20 years.
“You have to get it into your mind that this will not beat you, plus the family support means a lot too. And you wouldn’t believe the number of calls to the house and people bringing meals and everything.
“One of the concerns I had [in prison] was that my health was starting to go down a bit from being in there, but it helps when people are supporting you. Even the prisoners in there – from all walks of life – were coming together and saying to me, ‘you shouldn’t be in here’. I have to say, the prison staff were very good and did their jobs very professionally.”
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Saturday 18 May 2013
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