However, we are very conscious that Martin Corey and Marian Price remain unjustly interned in Maghaberry Gaol at the behest of British Intelligence and the RUC/PSNI. Gerry McGeough is also wrongly incarcerated. Our Network reiterates the demand that these three Republican Prisoners also be released.

The Republican Network for Unity is also mindful that Political Prisoners continue to suffer terrible conditions because of the the failure of Stormont to instigate last August’s Maghaberry Agreement’.

Mr Meehan concluded; ‘RNU send our best wishes to Brendan and his partner, Roisin. Their struggle was our struggle and they both have been vindicated. Irish Republicans must remain united and ensure the Maghaberry Agreement is now implemented in full’.

Mr Lillis' partner Roisin Lynchspoke of her relief following his release from police custody.

The 60-year-old west Belfast man was jailed in 1977 after he was convicted for possession of explosives.

He was released under licence in 1993, but that was later revoked when he was arrested on robbery charges two years ago. His family had been campaigning for his release on compassionate grounds due to ill health.

Roisin Lynch led the campaign to have Lillis released on compassionate grounds as he suffers from a severe form of arthritis.

Yesterday evening, Lillis was informed that the Northern Ireland Parole Commissioners had directed that he be released.

Speaking at her home in west Belfast, Ms Lynch said her partner was in chronic pain and posed no threat to the community.

Lillis is being treated for his condition at Belfast City Hospital and arrangements are now under way to facilitate his release.

Unionist politicians have called on the Parole Commission to clarify the basis for its decision to release Brendan Lillis. Unionists have criticised the move, and claimed that Lillis could have received appropriate care in custody.

Northern Justice Minister David Ford has defended the decision to release Lillis, and said he could yet stand trial if his health improves.

Paul Givan, a DUP MLA and Chairman of the Stormont Justice Committee, is to meet the chief parole commissioner on Monday to seek clarification of the basis for the decision to release him.