Relatives Reject 'Odhran Letter'
Plea to Government for an investigation

The Star (Ireland)
12.6.1997

Relatives of Scientologist Odhran Fortune yesterday met with a Government
Minister about his case.
	The Co. Wexford family believe Odhran (24) has been brainwashed by
the so-called "church".
	The young man left his Courtown workplace with two cult members 11
days ago to go to their Britain base.
	His brother Diarmuid has already urged the Government to copy the
German government's decision to monitor the Church of Scientology.
	Family members travelled to Leinster House yesterday where
Diarmuid (30) said they had met two Government representatives, including
a Minister.
	"Odhran must realise that we love him - we don't care what he says
or what he signs, we believe he has been co-erced," Diarmuid told The
Star.
	The Fortunes have already collected 6,000 names for a petition fo
the Government to investigate Scientology.
	Meanwhile, Odhran last night said he had complained to the police
about "vicious deprogrammers" and is pursuing a civil action against them.

	Letter

	In a letter to Ireland International news agency he alleged his
family was, and continues to be, "viciously manipulated" by five named
"deprogrammers".
	He also claimed he was kept in Ireland against his will from
December last until earlier this month.
	He wrote: "I am making this statement as I want the truth known.
	"I am currently rebuilding my life. I have no regrets about
leaving Gorey but I regret that my family was viciously manipulated by
deprogrammers. These deprogrammers were (five named persons).
	"For months I was deprived of the ability to run my own life, and
made to do things against my will, at times deprived of sleep (up to 25
hours) and physically assaulted.
	"My passport was taken away from me so that I could not leave, I
was constantly escorted and I was prevented from even using a telephone.
	"I hate these people who ruined my family. They are a despicable
lot. They pretend to be interested in family but it's all a sham.
	"I will do what I know is right."