The Inquest into the Death of Martin Ward a 23year old Irish man, while on remand at Woodhill Prison, ended last Friday with a verdict of death by natural causes contributed to by neglect. Martin Ward Died on the 19th February 2001.

Martins death was the seventh suspicious  death in a twelve month period and the third death in the first two months of 2001. Just weeks before prison officers discovered 28-year-old Simon Mountford, hanged from a window early then Three days later 27-year-old Darren Payas, was also found hanged.

    An inquiry carried out in 1998 into the conditions at Woodhill prison was a damming report, with a catalogue of the most horrendous conditions for prisoners. Nothing has changed, and even less has been learned.

Another family has had their lives destroyed by what happened to their loved one Martin.

The opportunity for the Coroner to recommend changes necessary to allow prisoners the basic right, the right to live has been lost and the only recommendation he will make is that better prison records are kept.

The inquest allowed us a little glimpse into the Woodhill Prison and believe me, that was enough. Martin Ward was not even allowed the right to see a doctor. This was after an Agency nurse Mr Jhal visited Martin and was witness to Martin coughing up blood, he hadn't eaten for several days, was hyperventilating and suffering from acute stomach pains.

Woodhill Prison Service, is responsible for Martin Wards death. As a result of their neglect of duty to care for Martin Ward, he died two days later in his cell alone, very distressed and very cold, as the cell window remained open.

We would not allow this to happen to a dog, and yet when a police dog handler was responsible for the death of a police dog there is a court case and a Police Officer is convicted. Clearly the life of a young Irish man is worth less than that of a dog.

We call for an Independent Public Inquiry into the death of Martin Ward and urge you to support us in whatever way you can. You can join us and make a small donation by simply contacting us at the information below

Terry Stewart on behalf of the campaign.

Irish Deaths In Custody Campaign

P.O Box 29644

London E2 8TS

Telephone 07931844969

E-mail <mailto:[email protected]>[email protected]