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Picket in Derry to highlight first anniversary of Tony Taylor return to jail

Derry republican Tony Taylor was returned to jail a year ago tomorrow<br />&nbsp;
Derry republican Tony Taylor was returned to jail a year ago tomorrow
 
Derry republican Tony Taylor was returned to jail a year ago tomorrow
 

THE family of jailed republican Tony Taylor are to stage a protest this weekend to mark the first anniversary of his return to jail.

The 49 year-old had his early release licence revoked by then Secretary of State Theresa Villiers a year ago today.

The Northern Ireland Office said his licence was revoked by the Parole Commission because of the risk he posed to the public.

A former republican prisoner, Taylor was sentenced to 18 years in jail in 1994 for IRA activity and for three years in 2011 for possession of a rifle.

He is currently being held at Maghaberry Prison in Co Antrim. His case is due to be heard by the Parole Commissioners in May.

His solicitor Aiden Carlin said his client had contributed positively to the community since his release and said there was "no reason to have him where he is".

Campaigners have organised a protest at Strand Road PSNI station in Derry tomorrow to highlight the case.

Mr Taylor's wife Lorraine said the past 12 months had been difficult.

“We need everybody to come out behind us and show solidarity with Tony and show we are all backing him," she said.