Who was Bik McFarlane? The IRA figure linked to notorious kidnapping – The Irish Times

Brendan McFarlane: A Life Defined by Conflict and Controversy

Brendan Bik McFarlane, who passed away at the age of 74, was a prominent figure in the Irish Republican Army (IRA) during its most tumultuous period.

The H-Blocks and the maze escape

McFarlane rose to prominence as the officer commanding IRA prisoners during the 1981 hunger strikes in the H-Blocks, a pivotal moment in the Northern Ireland conflict. He was also a key figure in the daring 1983 Maze prison escape, leading a group of prisoners across the border into the Republic of Ireland.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald described him as a “great patriot who lived his life for the freedom and unity of Ireland,” a sentiment that reflects his legacy within certain republican circles.

However, McFarlaneS actions also sparked controversy and outrage.

The Bayardo Bar Massacre

In 1975, at the age of 23, McFarlane participated in the Bayardo Bar massacre on Belfast’s Shankill Road. He,along with two accomplices,carried out a bombing and shooting attack on a pub believed to be frequented by members of the Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF). The attack resulted in the deaths of two civilians outside the pub and three more in the subsequent explosion, leaving dozens injured.

“mcfarlane and his accomplices were quickly apprehended and were jailed for life.McFarlane was also convicted of IRA membership and given a further two-year concurrent sentence.”

Derrada Wood and the Shooting of Gardaí

Just months after the Maze prison escape, McFarlane was implicated in the 1983 kidnapping of businessman Don Tidey by the IRA. Tidey was held in a hideout in Derrada Wood, County Leitrim, until gardaí and army personnel discovered it in December.

During the raid,Garda Patrick kelly and Recruit Garda Gary Sheehan were tragically killed by the IRA gang,while Det Sgt Donie Kelleher sustained serious injuries.

McFarlane’s fingerprints were found at the hideout,and he was identified as one of the gunmen by a garda present at the scene.

A Lengthy Legal Battle and Public Outcry

McFarlane was arrested in 1998 and charged with false imprisonment, possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life, and possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose. The trial, which lasted a decade, was marked by delays and legal complexities.

Central to the prosecution’s case was McFarlane’s alleged confession at Dundalk Garda station, but this was ultimately deemed inadmissible as evidence in 2008. Although the prosecution ultimately dropped the charges due to a lack of admissible evidence, McFarlane’s fingerprints on items recovered from the hideout continued to raise questions.

In 2010, the European Court of Human Rights awarded McFarlane €17,000 in compensation for the delays in bringing him to trial.

Despite his conviction for the Maze escape, McFarlane remained a figure of some notoriety within republican circles. He married and raised a family, and even participated in public events organized by Sinn Féin.

His appearance at a virtual St. patrick’s Day concert in 2021, though, sparked outrage from the family of Garda Patrick Kelly, who condemned his ongoing lack of accountability for his role in the Derrada Wood incident.

What do you believe Brendan McFarlane’s lasting impact on Irish republicanism and the ongoing peace process will be?

Brendan McFarlane Interview: A Man of Complex Legacy

Archyde presents an exclusive interview with Colm O’Rourke, a long-time associate and biographer of the late Brendan McFarlane, to delve into the complex legacy of a man who significantly influenced the course of the Northern Ireland conflict.

The Rise to Prominence

H-Blocks and the Maze Escape

Archyde: colm, Brendan McFarlane left an indelible mark on Irish republican history, most notably during the 1981 hunger strikes and the 1983 Maze prison escape. How would you describe his leadership during these critical moments?

Colm O’Rourke: Brendan was a natural leader, capable of inspiring and mobilizing those around him. During the hunger strikes, he was integral in maintaining prisoners’ resolve and negotiating with the British authorities. The Maze escape was a testament to his strategic planning and ability to execute daring operations.

The Bayardo Bar Massacre

Archyde: Yet, brendan’s legacy is also marred by the 1975 Bayardo Bar massacre. How does one reconcile these contrasting aspects of his life?

Colm O’Rourke: It’s undeniable that Brendan’s actions had tragic consequences. Though, it’s essential to consider the context of the Conflict and the impact of the British presence in northern Ireland. many republicans, like Brendan, believed thay were fighting for a just cause, but the means they employed were often fraught with controversy.

Disputed Legacy and Controversies

Derrada Wood and the Shooting of Gardai

Archyde: The Derrada Wood incident further tarnished brendan’s reputation. Despite his links to the IRA, why do you believe he remained a figure of significance within republican circles?

Colm O’Rourke: Brendan’s role in the H-Blocks and the Maze escape continued to resonate with republicans, some of whom saw him as a heroic figure. Moreover, his conviction for the Derrada Wood incident was never proven, and many believed he was railroaded by the Irish state. This fueled speculation and sympathy within republican circles.

Legal Battles and the Search for Justice

Archyde: Brendan’s extensive legal battles raised crucial questions about due process and justice in Northern Ireland. how do you think his experiences influenced the wider debate on these issues?

Colm O’Rourke: Brendan’s legal struggles highlighted the complexities and inequities of the judicial process, especially for those involved in politically motivated crimes. They sparked conversations about the role of the law in conflicts and the need for fairness and impartiality. Though he eventually received compensation, the delayed justice raised serious questions about the functioning of the system.

Reflections and Legacy

Archyde: Looking back, what do you believe Brendan McFarlane’s lasting impact on Irish republicanism and theongoing peace process will be?

Colm O’Rourke: Brendan’s legacy is complex and contested, reflecting the broader divisions within Irish society. While some may revile him for his actions, others continue to see him as a symbol of resistance.Ultimately, his story serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict and the ongoing need for reconciliation and peace.

Join the conversation: What do you think should be Brendan McFarlane’s lasting legacy? Let us know in the comments below.