The death has been announced of Belfast republican Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane following a short illness. North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly described McFarlane as his "friend and comrade," calling him a "huge figure within republicanism." Born in 1951, Brendan McFarlane was raised in Ardoyne, Belfast, where he began his lifelong involvement with the Irish republican movement.
McFarlane became widely known during his tenure as Officer Commanding IRA prisoners at Long Kesh during the 1981 hunger strike, which saw ten republican prisoners die between May and August of those years, taking over the position from Bobby Sands in March. This period marked him as one of the pivotal figures within republican circles, and he was involved deeply during one of the most turbulent times in Irish history.
One of his most notable exploits came in September 1983, when he led the mass breakout from the Maze Prison. This event, characterized as the biggest prison escape in British history, saw 38 IRA prisoners escape. It was described as chaotic and dangerous, resulting tragically in the death of one prison officer and injuries to others. His escape and subsequent recapture highlighted the tension and conflict surrounding the troubles.
According to Gerry Kelly, McFarlane's legacy remains significant, particularly within republican circles: “Bik was a republican activist all his life right to the end and gave all he had to the struggle for a united Ireland.” He reflected on McFarlane’s charitable spirit and commitment to his family, expressing his condolences to his wife Lene and children, Thomas, Emma, and Tina.
After being recaptured along with fellow escapee Gerry Kelly in Holland during 1986, McFarlane was extradited back to Northern Ireland. He spent several more years behind bars, finally securing his release under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.
McFarlane was sentenced to five life sentences for his role in the 1975 Bayardo Bar bombing, which resulted in the deaths of four Protestant civilians and a UVF member. Despite the weight of these accusations, he was often celebrated by many for his previous actions and commitment to the republican cause.
Throughout his life, McFarlane also embraced music, being described as a talented singer and songwriter who performed at various events, including previous Ard Fheis gatherings. His contributions to the arts were as heartfelt as his political activism, allowing him to engage with communities and maintain ties with his roots.
“He was a huge figure within republicanism and particularly at the time of the hunger strike when ten of our comrades lost their lives,” Gerry Kelly stated, emphasizing McFarlane's enduring influence. His political narrative encapsulated the broader struggle for Irish unity, demonstrating the intersections of his activism and artistry.
Further tributes noted how McFarlane's passing resonates with the many lives he touched throughout his political career and beyond. Colleagues noted not only his formidable presence within the political sphere but also his generous and kind demeanor outside the fervent world of political activism.
His contributions were not limited to the IRA alone; he played significant roles across various platforms advocating for the rights of ex-prisoners and their reintegration upon release. Many hoped to see justice related to the historic grievances of imprisoned republicans, asserting the enduring nature of such causes.
Members of the Sinn Féin party have expressed their condolences, honoring his memory and impact on the party's history. His reputation as both strategist and symbol within republicanism remained undiminished even after his death, illustrating the long-lasting legacies of those who shaped the political landscapes through turbulent times.
Overall, Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane's life was characterized by resilience, artistry, and unwavering commitment to his beliefs. His passing on February 21, 2025, marks not just the loss of a veteran republican but of someone who was deeply woven within the cultural and political narratives of Ireland's contemporary history.
While funeral details are expected to follow, the tributes pouring in for McFarlane showcase the respect he garnered across generations of activists within the socio-political fabric of Ireland. His impact will be felt far beyond his lifetime, echoing through the stories and lives he affected throughout his service and personal endeavors.