Brendan ‘Bik’ McFarlane, a prominent former figure of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA), passed away at the age of 74 on Friday after suffering from a short illness. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in the fraught history of Irish republicanism, wherein he was not just known for his controversial political actions but also for his contributions to music and culture.
McFarlane is best remembered as the IRA commander during the pivotal 1981 hunger strikes at the Maze prison, where ten men died as they protested for political status. His leadership during this tumultuous period only solidified his status as key figure within the republican movement, as he fought for the causes of freedom and unity for Ireland.
Born and raised in Belfast, McFarlane’s activism began at a young age. He was imprisoned at the Maze following his participation in the 1975 IRA bombing of a bar on the Shankill Road, which resulted in the tragic loss of five lives. This would set the stage for years of political struggle and controversy surrounding his name.
Such events set the scene for one of his most notorious achievements—the 1983 mass escape from the Maze, where 38 IRA prisoners fled. This elaborate breakout is often regarded as one of the most significant moments for the IRA, and it helped to solidify McFarlane's role as a military leader within the organization.
After his involvement with the IRA, McFarlane underwent various brushes with the law, including accusations related to the 1983 kidnapping of businessman Don Tidey. He was arrested and later cleared of these charges, which significantly impacted his life. By 2008, after a long legal battle culminating at the European Court of Human Rights, he was acquitted of false imprisonment and firearms possession related to the Tidey case. The court noted excessiveness in the handling of his case, which involved long delays and lost evidence.
Following his release, McFarlane remained active within the community and was well-respected among his peers. His deep commitment to the republican cause was evident through many recollections shared by fellow party members upon learning of his passing.
Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald expressed her sentiments about McFarlane’s impact, stating, "Bik was dedicated to the struggle for the freedom and unity of Ireland, and the equality of its people." She described him as "a giant of Irish republicanism" whose life intertwined activism with his passion for music—highlighting his dual identity of revolutionary and artist.
Gerry Kelly, Sinn Féin MLA and friend of McFarlane, shared his condolences and reflections, stating, "He will be sadly missed by the many, many people who knew, respected and loved him." Kelly emphasized McFarlane's lifelong dedication to the republican cause, saying he gave "all he had to the struggle for a united Ireland" and commemorated him as "a talented singer, songwriter and musician. He previously sang at many events and occasions including at previous Ard Fheis."
Those who knew McFarlane described him as someone whose life was rich with connection, whether through his political beliefs or his love of cultural expression via music. His legacy will likely be remembered not just for his controversial political actions but also for his artistic contributions and the friendships he forged throughout his life.
Today, friends, family, and political figures continue to mourn McFarlane, recognizing the indelible mark he left on the fabric of Irish society. While many may view McFarlane through the lens of his IRA involvement, it is equally important to acknowledge his contributions as a musician and storyteller. Such talents allowed him to connect with diverse audiences, bridging gaps during times of turmoil.
His passing resonates deeply within the communities he engaged with politically and artistically. Indeed, McFarlane's complex identity reflects the tensions and struggles of the broader Irish experience, earning him both admiration and criticism during his lifetime. His narrative serves as both a symbol of the republican struggle and of the transformative, albeit difficult, historical moments of late 20th century Ireland.
McFarlane's life encapsulated the realities of political activism accompanied by artistic expression, making him both revered and contentious. His legacy will continue to spark dialogue among historians, politicians, and members of the public long after his passing.