I am not sure whether this is the correct medium to whom this should be addressed and I apologise in advance if this is not the case.
I am now into my 3rd day of a hunger and fluid strike (total embargo on all fluids and foods) until such time as there is some redress in the balance of rights for fathers. Sadly we are a much maligned community and feel that there is absolutely no equality in legislation or indeed, non legislative circles.
In April I seperated with my long term partner with whom I have a 4.5 year old daughter. I do have PR however, this makes little difference to my ex partner. She took our daughter to live with her and although at the beginning I was fortunate enough to see her regularly my ex partner has now prevented me from seeing her completely. I neither have the money nor inclination to pursue this via solicitors and courts and have tried on many occasions even just to see how my daughter is but to no avail. My ex partner has used all manner of public bodies to support her by stating that I am not a "fit" parent even although that is not the case, and she has threatened often to use this should I pursue a contact order. I don't want to go through the time and potential heartbreak of this and in order that I can raise awareness for all fathers in the same situation I have embarked upon this course of action. I fully understand the consequences particularly when it comes to no fluids however, given the depth of my felling, the love I have for a daughter I am not permitted to see and the utter injustice of our legal sytem when it comes to fathers I am prepared to forego my own life in this matter. It needs to be raised in the political arena so that considered changes can be made on the basis of fairness, equality and familes as a whole.
Given that I am now in my third day I also realise that time is short particularly from a fluid perspective but feel my cause is a just one. I have not mailed you for sympathy but merely hope to highlight my action on behalf of thousands of very good and loving fathers, and whilst I really wouldn't want to forego my life I am prepared to do so.
Thankyou for your indulgence.
Glenn