October 2007 Archives (Latest News)

Sinn Féin support for ‘Count Us In’ Disability Democracy project

Newry Armagh MLA Micky Brady has said that Sinn Féin fully support the ‘Count Us In’ project and that it is essential that we develop the platform to ensure that more disabled people to get involved in all areas of political life. Read more

‘Opponents of change’ slammed

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has accused elements within the Civil Service of hampering progress towards lasting peace and prosperity here by undermining the Equality Agenda.. Read more

North’s Economy cannot sustain a protracted postal dispute

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has said that failure to reach agreement in the current postal dispute could have devastating consequences for the North’s economy. Read more

McGuinness urges Empowerment of marginalised groups

Marginalised groups, particularly people with disabilities, must be empowered to play a full part in the democratic process deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will tell an event to launch Electoral Registration Week this morning. Read more

Foster refuses to comment on leaked memo

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has called on the Environment Minister to fully disclose the Planning Service report and recommendations for the private application for a Visitors' Centre at the Giant's Causeway. Read more

MLA backs ‘Van Safety’ Campaign

Sinn Féin Road Safety spokesperson, Assembly Member for Newry Armagh Cathal Boylan who is also the Deputy Chair of the Environment Committee has said he fully supports the campaign of bereaved father Mike Turner to make it illegal to carry unrestrained passengers in the back of vans. Read more

Unanimous backing for Sinn Féin demand for mandatory registration of Landlords

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson, West Belfast MLA Fra McCann has welcomed unanimous cross-party support for the party’s demand for the mandatory registration of private landlords during an Assembly debate today. Read more

Give Credit Unions the ability to offer wider Financial Services

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel Mc Laughlin MLA has called for Credit Unions to be given the latitude to offer a wider range of Financial Services. Read more

Minister Gildernew updates Assembly on Bluetongue and FMD

Sinn Féin Agriculture Michelle Gildernew MP MLA today updated the Assembly on the current disease situation in Britain. Her statement follows confirmation by Defra that Bluetongue is circulating in East Anglia. Read more

Oráid Caitríona Ruane, An t-Aire Oideachas

Oráid Caitríona Ruane don imeacht ‘ó Neart go neart', inniu i gCnoc an Anfa Read more

Sinn Féin disappointed that Classroom Assistant’s dispute not resolved

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson, Lagan Valley MLA Paul Butler said he is disappointed that the classroom assistant’s dispute has not been resolved. Read more

Minister Mc Gimpsey's reversal on Irish language provision "disappointing" - de Brún MEP

Speaking today from the assembly, former Health Minister and current six county MEP Bairbre de Brún has expresed grave disappointment at the decision by Minister Mc Gimpsey to reverse bi-lingual advertising and correspondence in the Health department. Read more

Give Credit Unions the ability to offer wider Financial Services – Mitchel Mc Laughlin MLA

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel Mc Laughlin MLA has called for Credit Unions to be given the latitude to offer a wider range of Financial Services. Read more

DUP ‘running scared’ of Causeway debate

Sinn Féin has accused the DUP of ‘running scared’ of discussing the controversy around the Giant’s Causeway Visitors Centre after Councillor Philip McGuigan had put forward a motion to Ballymoney Council opposing any moves to give the Visitors Centre to a private developer but DUP Mayor John Finlay referred the… Read more

Ráiteas Bairbre de Brún FPE

Léirigh Feisire Eorpach Bairbre de Brún déistin inniu faoi ráiteas ón Aire Sláinte, Seirbhísí Sóisialta agus Sábháilteachta Poiblí, Michael Mc Gimpsey, go bhfuil sé chun deireadh a chur le fógraíocht agus le heisiúint preasráitis trí mheán na Gaeilge. Deir Inion de Brún,,, Read more

Ó Snodaigh describes Minister Harney’s claw back scheme as setback in fight against drugs

Following the seizure of €2million of heroin in Clondalkin yesterday and a decision by the HSE to introduce a ‘claw back’ scheme later this year, resulting in pharmacies ceasing to dispense methadone, Sinn Féin TD for Dublin and party spokesperson on community safety Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called for an… Read more

Inactivity rates go the core of our economic problems

Sinn Féin Equality Spokesperson, Martina Anderson speaking in an Assembly debate on the Committee for the Administration of Justice report on the ‘rhetoric and the reality’ of Equality has said that deep seated problem of economic inactivity encapsulates the difficulties of the Six County economy. Read more

Ahern and Harney cannot hide behind HSE – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Health spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that Taoiseach Bertie Ahern and Health Minister Mary Harney must bear full responsibility for the cuts being imposed by the Health Service Executive. Read more

McLaughlin expresses shock at 177% interest rate

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has expressed his shock on learning that some moneylenders are charging interest rates of 177% - and it’s legal. Read more

Ferris Raises Problem of Drug Abuse in Kerry

Martin Ferris TD will this tomorrow highlight in the Dáil the growing problem of drug abuse in Kerry, and in particular the appearance of new and more dangerous substances in the Tralee area. Deputy Ferris will be speaking during time set aside for all parties on the issue, and to… Read more

Lord Chief Justice challenged over political interference

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA, Raymond McCartney who is the deputy Chair of the Assembly Executive Review Committee, speaking after the Lord Chief Justice Brian Kerr gave evidence to the committee has said that Sinn Fein raised the issue of political interference, appointments and sentencing. Read more

Ethnic communities urged to register to vote - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Ethnic Minorities Spokesperson Gerry McHugh has today urged all ethnic communities to use their democratic right and register to vote. Read more

Sinn Féin representatives take demand for North West Satellite Cancer Centre to Belfast and Dublin

In a co-ordinated action, Sinn Fein representatives from throughout the North West will be presenting a letter and petition of protest to Department of Health Permanent Secretaries in Dublin and Belfast tomorrow over the continued failure of Ministers Mary Harney and Michael Mc Gimpsey to progress plans for a satellite… Read more

Ó Caoláin outlines Sinn Féin Oireachtas Portfolios

Speaking today from Leinster House Sinn Féin TD and Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has outlined the party's Oireachtas portfolios. Read more

Disability rights campaign succeeds in collecting 1 million signatures

Sinn Féin Equality Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has announced that the 1million4disability campaign has successfully collected 1 million signatures to put pressure on the European Commission and individual states to deliver disability rights in all aspects of life. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said Sinn Féin had taken up the gauntlet… Read more

1Million4Disability Campaign passes 1 million signatures

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has welcomed the news that the 1Million4Disability Campaign has passed its target of collecting 1 million signatures as part of the campaign to get the EU to introduce effective legislation to combat all forms of discrimination and guarantee full inclusion of the more than… Read more

Scandalous recruitment ban must be overturned – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said the health service unions are fully justified in now contemplating protest action against the ban on recruitment of staff for hospitals and other healthcare facilities in a cost-cutting exercise. Speaking in the Dáil this evening, on a Private Members Motion… Read more

Older people facing isolation in absence of rural transport system – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD, speaking after having secured an adjournment of the Dáil to discuss Positive Ageing Week, called on the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey to initiate an effective public transport system for rural communities, especially so that older people can fully avail of free… Read more

Council must meet Taxi Union to deal with discrimination against black drivers

Dublin Sinn Féin Councillor Larry O'Toole has called on Dublin City Council to call in the Taxi Regulator and Unions to meet with the Transport Committee to discuss the growing problem of people refusing to use taxis with black drivers. Councillor O'Toole made the call after witnessing an incident first… Read more

No joined-up approach between the PSNI and other justice agencies

Sinn Féin President, West Belfast MP Gerry Adams MP speaking in an Assembly debate on Policing has said that there needs to be a joined-up approach between the PSNI and other justice agencies, including alternative bodies and institutions, to create a cohesive and sustained approach in partnership with local communities… Read more

Sinn Féin highlight low PSNI clearance rates

Sinn Féin Policing Board member, Foyle MLA Martina Anderson speaking in an Assembly debate on Policing has said that crime and anti-community activity are two of the major issues for the vast majority of people across the North. Read more

Anti-social behaviour is a major problem in all communities

Sinn Féin Policing Board member, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay speaking in an Assembly debate on Policing has said that anti-social behaviour is a major problem in all communities. Read more

Sinn Fein call for greater focus on crime prevention

Sinn Féin Policing and Justice Spokesperson and Board member, South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey speaking in an Assembly debate on Policing has said that the problem of anti-social behaviour has existed for a long time. He also called for more time, energy and creativity to be spent on prevention. Read more

Reforms Urgently Needed to Address Overdependence on Revenue from Property and Consumption - Morgan

Responding to yesterdays Exchequer returns which show a deficit €3,100 million for the first nine months of 2007 Sinn Féin spokesperson on Economic Affairs Arthur Morgan TD said these figures haven fallen far short of government tax revenue projections further proved the need for reforms to address overdependence of the… Read more

Ferris to demand Sexual Assault Unit for Kerry General Hospital

Kerry North Sinn Fein TD Martin Ferris is to attempt to have the business of the Dáil adjourned this evening to ask that a Sexual Assault Treatment Unit be established in Kerry General Hospital as a matter of urgency. Read more

Government should intervene in Aer Lingus dispute - Doherty

Sinn Féin Transport Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has called on the Government to intervene in the Aer Lingus dispute and instruct management to implement the wage increases awarded to its workers under the 'Towards 2016' Social Partnership agreement. Read more

Inevitable union frustration with social partnership reaching boiling point - Morgan

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Economic Affairs and Employment Arthur Morgan TD said today realisation that social partnership is not delivering for workers is now clearly eroding support for the process amongst the trade union movement, including those who in the past were most supportive of it. Morgan was commenting on… Read more

Sinn Féin meets Garda Inspectorate to discuss Garda priorities

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has this morning met with the Garda Inspectorate to discuss some of the issues arising from the recommendations in the Inspectorate's latest report and Sinn Féin's own proposals for Garda priorities in the coming year including possible timeframes for their implementation. Read more

HSE recruitment ban must be lifted to maximise patient care - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD called on the Minister for Health Mary Harney to withdraw her statement that the cuts being imposed on hospitals by the HSE will not affect patient care after it was revealed that up to eight operations per day are being cancelled at… Read more

McLaughlin welcomes Ulster Bank Chief’s comments

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has strongly welcomed the call from Dr Alan Gillespie, Chairperson of the Ulster Bank Group for the amalgamation of the two job promotion agencies on the island, the IDA and Invest NI. Read more

Sinn Féin announce details of Newry and Armagh DDP members

Newry and Armagh MP Conor Murphy announcing his Party’s nominees for the local DPPs has said that it was essential that communities get the policing service that they are entitled to. Read more

Street trading must be made ‘fraud-free’ – Leonard

Sinn councillor Billy Leonard has said that Coleraine Council’s Street Trading policy must make the whole street trading scene “fraud-free and stringently against those who abuse the system.” Read more

Gildernew Responds to Red Meat Taskforce Report

Sinn Féin Farming Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has said that the Red Meat Task Force Report has come at a critical juncture for the red meat industry. Read more

Sinn Féin MLA's expenses provide voice of local communities - John O'Dowd

Sinn Féin MLA for Upper Bann John O'Dowd commenting on media reports about MLAs expenses has said that Sinn Féin MLA's spending is translated into the betterment of local communities. Read more

Gildernew shows support for Pig Industry

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has visited the Grampian Country Pork Cookstown site. Read more

Sinn Féin North West Representatives Demand Cancer Care Services

In an all-island initiative Sinn Féin representatives from the throughout the North West region have today presented a letter and petition of protest to Minister for Health Mary Harney and her northern counterpart Michael McGimpsey over the continued failure of their departments to progress plans for a satellite radiation unit… Read more

Tackling drugs crucial to tackling crime – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, speaking during Statements on Tackling Crime in the Dáil today, said to effectively tackle gangland we must tackle drugs from every angle. Deputy Ó Snodaigh, who this morning met the Garda Inspectorate to discuss Garda priorities, said the Government must give the… Read more

Sinn Féin urges older people to register to vote

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Older People, Micky Brady MLA (Newry/Armagh) has urged all those Senior Citizens who are not on the Electoral Register to recognize the influence they can exert on the political process by exercising their right to vote. Read more

Government must resolve impasse on imminent withdrawal of methadone by pharmacists - Burke

Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Christy Burke has today called on Minister for Health Mary Harney, the HSE and pharmacists to resolve the current impasse on the impending HSE medicine repayment claw back scheme which is threatening the dispensing services of methadone from mid October. Read more

Minister Re-opens Re-furbished Lough Neagh Marina Facilities

Sinn Féin Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has officially re-opened the Ballyronan Marina on the shores of Lough Neagh. Read more

Donegal's 18% unemployment must be addressed - Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad today Sinn Féin Seanadóir Pearse Doherty has called for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment to address the house on the issue of high unemployment in the Donegal region. Read more

Sinn Féin lobbies Health Departments in Ireland over North West Cancer Care - Ní Chuilín

In a co-ordinated action, Sinn Fein representatives from throughout the North West have presented a letter and petition of protest to Department of Health Permanent Secretaries in Dublin and Belfast today over the continued failure of Ministers Mary Harney and Michael Mc Gimpsey to progress plans for a satellite radiation… Read more

McGuinness meets with NIC-ICTU

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA met today with Peter Bunting Assistant General Secretary of Irish Congress of Trade Unions – Northern Ireland Committee. Read more

Cross border initiative will promote racial equality - McGuinness

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA has commended two border councils for their efforts in promoting racial equality. Read more

Minister on promotion and fact finding tour in US

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy MP, MLA, departs for the United States today where he is due to hold talks with senior government, members of Congress and potential US investors here. Read more

Senator Doherty welcomes promise of Seanad debate on Donegal employment crisis

Following Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty's demand in the Seanad today that government address the house on the issue of high unemployment in the Donegal region Donnie Cassidy has agreed to allocate a half day of Seanad time to debate the issue. Read more

Sinn Féin say Amgen announcement no surprise - Cllr. Martin Hallinan

Sinn Féin Councillor Martin Hallinan has today expressed disappointment at the Amgen announcement which he described as no surprise to the community. Cllr. Hallinan has called on Minister Micheal Martin and the IDA to deliver on their promises to provide jobs for the Youghal and East Cork region. Read more

Community policing absent from new crime measures – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD welcomed a number of the new measures to tackle crime announced by Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy today. However Deputy Ó Snodaigh said he is disappointed that today’s package gives little priority to community policing. Read more

Urgent action required to deal with crisis at Louth County Hospital – Morgan

Louth Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan has asked Health Minister Mary Harney to explain why a CT scanner at Louth County remains shut down while patients have to be ferried to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda at great inconvenience, suffering and cost. Read more

Ó Caoláin calls for Dáil debate on Health funding

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health and Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called for a Dáil debate on the funding of the health system and the need for multi-annual budgeting in light of current cuts affecting patient care. Read more

Report into first PSNI killing gives huge cause for concern

Sinn Féin Upper Bann MLA John O’Dowd has expressed huge concern at the number of PSNI officers recommended for disciplinary hearings that retired following the shooting dead of Neil McConville in April 2003 by the PSNI and the impact that this has had on the Police Ombudsman’s investigation. Read more

de Brún welcomes presentation of 1 million signatures for disability rights

Over 1,000 people with disabilities are gathering today outside the European Commission building in Brussels to present the 1 million signatures which were collected from all over Europe for disability rights. Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso will receive the petition. Read more

de Brún encourages schools to win a trip to European Parliament

Sinn Féin's Six County MEP Bairbre de Brún has today called on local schools and pupils to take the opportunity to participate in an all-Ireland photo competition organised by the European Parliament office in Dublin in conjunction with the two Environment Departments North and South. The photos must explore the… Read more

North’s Economy cannot sustain a protracted postal dispute

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has said that failure to reach agreement in the current postal dispute could have devastating consequences for the North’s economy. Read more

Gerry Adams extends condolences to Breatnach family

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has extended condolences to the Breatnach family on the death of their mother Lucy and their father Deasún. Read more

Anderson welcomes TASERS opposition

Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board member Martina Anderson has welcomed today’s public declaration from the Human Rights Commission opposing PSNI plans to begin using controversial TASER guns. Read more

Sinn Féin will oppose Unionist anti-Irish agenda

Sinn Féin Assembly Chief Whip Carál Ní Chuilín MLA has said that her party will vigorously oppose a motion due for debate in the Assembly next Tuesday from UUP member David McNarry that attacks the right of Ministers to use Irish in their business and opposes the introduction of an… Read more

Newry Omeath road car accident

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady said expressed hope for the child who is in a ‘critical’ condition following Newry Omeath road car accident. Read more

Sinn Féin calls for full investigation into Causeway controversy

Environment Minister Arlene Foster has turned down a request from Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay to publish the Planning Service’s Report and Recommendations for the private application for a Visitors’ Centre at the Giant’s Causeway. Read more

Ruane announces £46 million ICT investment for schools

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane, today viewed some of the new ICT equipment being rolled out to primary schools across the north of Ireland as part of a major ‘refresh’ programme. Read more

Adams welcomes Carvill group pull-out on site of RUC barracks – Onus now on Minister

West Belfast MP Gerry Adams has welcomed a decision by the Carvill Group to withdraw from the site of the old Andersonstown RUC barracks. Read more

Economy 7 price increase will hit the most vulnerable

Sinn Féin anti-poverty spokesperson, West Tyrone MLA Claire McGill has said the latest in increase in electricity prices will place an extra burden on many consumers as they enter the winter months and will add to the rising fuel poverty that affects many homes across the North. Read more

Bairbre de Brún to visit Basque leader in prison

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún will visit Batasuna leader Mr Arnaldo Otegi later today, Friday 5th October, in Martutene Prison in Donostia/San Sebastian. Read more

Sinn Féin will keep up pressure over Causeway

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has said that the party will keep up the pressure over the controversy surrounding the Visitors Centre at the Giants Causeway. Read more

Government must take responsibility for mid western region - Doherty

Responding to confirmation from BMI that they do not intend to operate a Shannon Heathrow route Sinn Fein Regional Development Spokesperson, Senator Pearse Doherty has described the news as "no great surprise." Read more

Concern at Orde response to Policing Board position on TASERs

Sinn Féin Policing and Justice Spokesperson, South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey has expressed concern at the response of the PSNI Chief Constable Hugh Orde to the Policing Board position on the deployment of TASERs. Read more

Ruane and Hanafin Join Forces to Launch Second Annual ‘GLEO’ Schools Scheme

Sinn Féin Education Minister in the North of Ireland, Caitríona Ruane MLA and the Minister for Education and Science, Mary Hanafin TD and today jointly launched Foras na Gaeilge’s scheme, ‘GLEO’ at St. Patrick’s College, Drumcondra. The primary aim of the scheme is to recognise best practice in the promotion… Read more

Tagann an tAire Oideachais & Eolaíochta Máire Ní hAinifín agus Aire Oideachais sna sé chontae Caitríona Ruane le chéile chun an Dara Scéim Bhliantúil Scoileanna 'GLEO' a sheolad

Tháinig an tAire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta, Máire Ní hAinifín T.D. agus Aire Oideachais sna sé chontae, Caitríona Ruane C.T., le chéile inniu chun scéim Fhoras na Gaeilge, 'GLEO' a sheoladh i gColáiste Phádraig, Droim Conrach. Is í príomhaidhm na scéime aitheantas a thabhairt do na cleachtais is fearr maidir le… Read more

Markets drug seizure welcomed

South Belfast MLA, Alex Maskey, has welcomed the seizure of cannabis with an estimated value of £10,000 in the Markets area of South Belfast. Read more

Gildernew welcomes UNESCO approval for expansion of Fermanagh Geopark

Sinn Féin Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has praised UNESCO approval for the expansion of the Marble Arch Caves European Geopark into West Fermanagh. Read more

Sinn Féin presentation to Cuban Ambassador to mark 40th anniversary of Ché Guevara

To mark Ché Guevara's 40th anniversary Sinn Féin's Mary Lou McDonald will make a presentation to Cuban Ambassador Noel Carrillo on behalf of the party in the Rotunda of Dublin City Hall on Monday October 8th. Read more

No resumption of work at Ballyogan landfill until community concerns satisfied

South Dublin Sinn Féin representative Shaun Tracey, speaking as work has been halted on the excavation of 90,000 tonnes of waste at Ballyogan landfill, said work must not be allowed to resume until such time as a chemical analysis and a risk assessment are carried out. Work has been halted… Read more

Gardaí must be freed up to fight crime - Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has condemned the killing of two people in the Walkinstown area of Dublin last night. Deputy Ó Snodaigh called for the immediate implementation of Sinn Féin's proposals for civilianisation of the Gardaí to free up Gardaí from administrative tasks and redeploy them… Read more

McDonald pledges Sinn Féin support for Burma demonstration

Sinn Féin National Chairperson and Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has called on Dublin people to join in and show support for the demonstration taking place in the city today in support of the Burma protesters. Ms. McDonald has pledged Sinn Féin's support for Burma Action Ireland who are organising… Read more

Consultants' contracts will not deliver equality in health services - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said the contract on offer to hospital consultants, whether accepted by the Irish Hospital Consultants Association or not, will not deliver equity in the health services. Read more

Sinn Féin - Consistent in it's opposition to privatisation of water services

Speaking after media reports into the findings of the independent review on water charges, Regional Development Committee member and Sinn Féin MLA Raymond Mc Cartney has said that Sinn Féin has been consistent in it's opposition to water charges and is confident that the report shall reflect the views of… Read more

Government commitment to Cork and Dublin routes cannot be relied on - Doherty

Responding to the announcement by Transport Minister Noel Dempsey's that he intends placing two new Directors onto the board of Aer Lingus so as to protect the Cork and Dublin routes, Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has described the move as an admission of responsibility in the current fiasco. Read more

Lenihan must free up Gardaí to fight crime – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD called on Justice Minister Brian Lenihan to free up approximately 4,000 Gardaí from administrative duties and re-deploy them into the fight against crime. Speaking today Deputy Ó Snodaigh welcomed the announcement that Gardaí ‘may’ be given extra resources to fight serious crime… Read more

SIPTU + T&G join Sinn Féin in presentation to Cuban Ambassador

To mark Ché Guevara's 40th anniversary Sinn Féin's Mary Lou McDonald will make a presentation to the Cuban Ambassador to Ireland Noel Carrillo on behalf of the party in the Rotunda of Dublin City Hall today Monday October 8th @ 11am. Read more

Hallinan Calls on Minister Martin to Get Serious About Jobs in East Cork

Sinn Féin Councillor Martin Hallinan this morning called on Minister Micheál Martin to stop talking out of both sides of his mouth when it comes to job creation in East Cork and to in real terms address the deteriorating employment situation in Youghal and Cobh. Read more

Pensioners - Millions left unclaimed as benefit system found too complicated

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Older People, Newry Armagh MLA Micky Brady has said there needs to be an urgent review of the benefits system after its was found in a new survey that six out of ten pensioners on low incomes are being put off claiming benefits because the system… Read more

Joint statement from McGuinness and Paisley Snr on the post of Commissioner for Victims and Survivors

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA has issued a joint statement with Ian Paisley Snr about the post of the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors. Read more

Statement from Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane on Classroom assistants’ Dispute

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane MLA has issued a statement about the classroom assistants’ dispute and the current consultation between the unions and their members on the progress made in recent negotiations. Read more

Cuan Mhuire – Hope for addiction centre

Sinn Fein Newry and Armagh MP Conor Murphy has said that he shares the hope of many that the Cuan Mhuire Centre in Newry will reopen so that it can continue its much needed and valued life saving and life changing programme of care for suffering addicts. Read more

Sinn Féin lodge petition of concern against outrageous UUP motion.- Ní Chuilín MLA

Sinn Féin Assembly Chief Whip Carál Ní Chuilín MLA has announced that her party has lodged a petition of concern against a ludicrous motion due for debate in the Assembly next Tuesday from UUP member David McNarry that attacks the right of Ministers to use Irish in their business and… Read more

Memorandum of Understanding between Celtic and US Autism Groups

Michelle O’Neill MLA for Mid-Ulster, who is the Vice-chair of the Assembly Health Committee and a member of the Education Committee, has just returned from a trip to Washington with representatives of Autism NI/PAPA in her role as Sinn Fein Party Spokesperson on Disability. Read more

McDonald calls on Greens to engage in honest debate on Reform Treaty

Sinn Fein National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald has called on Green Party John Gormley not to buy into anti EU rhetoric during the forthcoming EU Reform Treaty debate. Read more

Ó Snodaigh calls on government to act in best interest of Irish people in Opt Out debate

Sinn Fein Dublin TD and spokesperson on Community Safety Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called on the cabinet sub-committee, meeting today to discuss a possible Irish opt out from the judicial and police provisions of the proposed EU Constitutional Treaty, to base their decision on the best interests of the Irish… Read more

Memo confirms further dangerous downgrading of Monaghan Hospital – Ó Caoláin

A leaked memo from management to the staff of Monaghan General Hospital has been described by Sinn Féin Health spokesperson and Cavan/Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin as “confirmation that the dangerous downgrading of Monaghan General Hospital is proceeding apace”. The unit where Deputy Ó Caolain was treated after his heart… Read more

Coroner hearings into shoot-to-kill deaths must not have be undermined

Sinn Féin MLA John O'Dowd commenting on the start of the preliminary inquests into RUC killing of Pearse Jordan in November 1992, and the shoot-to-kill incidents of November and December 1982 that claimed the lives of Sean Burns, Gervaise McKerr and Eugene Toman, and Roddy Carroll, Seamus Grew, and Michael… Read more

Sinn Féin welcome re-opening of applications for Victims Commissioner

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Victims and Truth, Mid Ulster MLA Francie Molloy has welcomed the joint statement from the First Minister and deputy First Minister on the way forward in the appointment of the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors. Read more

2010 – PFI ‘serving the private interest and not the general public’

Sinn Fein MLA Jennifer McCann has questioned the way that PFI projects are negotiated. The Assembly today debated a report into the Workplace 2010 Strategy produced by the Finance and Personnel Committee, which is chaired by Sinn Fein South Antrim MLA Mitchel McLaughlin. Read more

Society needs secure and happy children - Kelly

Secure, happy and confident children are the key to the future of our society. That was the message from Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA as he attended the launch of the NCH growing strong campaign. Read more

de Brún MEP 'All government policies need to be disaster proof'

Bairbre de Brún MEP, a founding member of the new Legislators 'Network for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Reduction' has warned the Assembly, the British and Irish governments and the European Commission that all policies need to withstand the challenges of climate change. This summer's news about floods, droughts… Read more

McDonald urges Harney to provide funding for suicide services in Clondalkin

Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has called on Health Minister Mary Harney to ensure that Pieta House, which offers a unique one-to-one counselling service to anyone at risk from suicide or self harm in Lucan in the Minister's constituency, receives the funding required to remain open this year. Read more

Shut Sellafield now – Ferris

Reacting to research which shows that nuclear debris released during a fire at Sellafield in 1957 was up to twice the volume previously thought Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD repeated his party’s demand that the plant be closed down immediately. Read more

Doherty urges stakeholders to pro-actively influence shape of PEACE III fund‏

West Tyrone Sinn Fein MP Pat Doherty has moved to highlight the need for local District Councils and community groups to be now pro-actively influencing the shape and extent of PEACE III European Funding Programme for their area. Read more

Sinn Féin to oppose Assembly motion to withdraw use of Irish Language - Doherty

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty will tomorrow take part in a protest action against a motion due for debate in the Assembly attacking the right of Ministers to use Irish in their business and which opposes the introduction of the Irish Language Act. Read more

Coleraine must improve facilities for the disabled

Coleraine Sinn Féin councillor Billy Leonard has said that facilities for the disabled must improve in the town. Read more

Time to debate closure of Sellafield

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay said that new research which shows that nuclear debris released during afire at Sellafield in 1957 was up to twice the volume previously thought has called for an urgent national debate on the closure of the plant. Read more

Deep Concern over PSNI inaction after Weekend Sectarian Attacks

Sinn Féin MLA for Portadown John O Dowd has said he is deeply concerned about the circumstances surrounding a sectarian attack in Portadown at the weekend when 2 nationalists were assaulted in the Woodhouse street are of the town. Read more

St. Mary's Park shooting another example of serious crime crisis - Quinlivan

Sinn Féin Limerick East representative Maurice Quinlivan has condemned last nights killing in the St. Marys park area of the City stating "the latest shooting in St. Mary's Park Limerick in which a young person was killed is appalling and highlights the fact that the Government has failed to get… Read more

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator to take part in protest against UUP motion

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty will today take part in a protest action against a motion due for debate in the Assembly attacking the right of Ministers to use Irish in their business and which opposes the introduction of the Irish Language Act. Read more

Mary Lou Mc Donald shortlisted for tonight's 'MEP of The Year Awards'

Mary Lou Mc Donald has been shortlisted for the 'MEP of The Year Awards' being held tonight in the Brussels Renaissance Hotel. The category that Ms McDonald has been selected for is Employment and Workers' Rights. This is the first time an Irish MEP has been shortlisted for the award. Read more

Limerick shooting highlights need for Garda civilianisation – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has condemned the latest gun murder of a man in Limerick yesterday evening and has once again called on Justice Minister Brian Lenihan to initiate a robust programme of civilianisation of administrative Garda tasks and re-deploy fully trained Gardaí into the fight… Read more

People of Ireland need to their have say on the future of Europe

Sinn Féin Vice President, West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has called for a referendum on the revised EU treaty in the north so that people across the island of Ireland can have their say on the future of Europe. Read more

Ferris Demands That Minister Supports Ban on Brazilian Beef

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has demanded that Minister Mary Coughlan support a ban on the importation of Brazilian beef into the EU and that she make a statement on her reasons for continuing to oppose such a move. Read more

Anger at Hugh Orde’s attempt to derail shoot-to-kill inquests

Sinn Féin Upper Bann MLA John O’Dowd has said that the families of a number of men killed in shoot-to-kill incidents in the 1980’s and 1990’s are angry at the attempts by the PSNI Chief Constable Hugh Orde to derail the inquest. Read more

Protecting our communities from Sex Offenders

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Children and Young People, West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey has said that the Border between north and south poses a considerable challenge in the management of those who pose a risk to our children and young people or who are sex offenders. Read more

Sinn Féin lead demand for increased Arts spending

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Paul Maskey has called for per head Arts expenditure to be increased to at least £10 per person. He also emphasised that ‘we are all beneficiaries of the Arts’ and that for every £1 spent on the arts there is £3.60 returned to the local… Read more

Thank you David McNarry - Ní Chuilín

Speaking today in the Assembly, Sinn Féin Party Whip Carál Ní Chuilín has thanked David McNarry for creating more Irish language speakers and by allowing Irish language enthusiasts to win the arguement of language rights. Read more

Inadequate regulation of predatory lenders unacceptable - Morgan

Sinn Féin's Economic Affairs spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has demanded government action to crack down on predatory lending by the growing sub prime lending sector. Morgan also demanded action by government to deliver adequate social and affordable housing for those currently being pushed towards unsuitable mortgage options. Read more

Environment Minister must lift suspension of World Heritage Management Group

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has called on the Minister of the Environment Arlene Foster to immediately lift the suspension on the World Heritage Management Group. Read more

Education Minister meets classroom assistants

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has met with a number of classroom assistants at Stormont today. Read more

all-Ireland Mental Health Promotion Campaign

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the simultaneous launch in Belfast and Dublin today of the all-Ireland Mental Health Promotion Campaign. Read more

Gildernew outlines Autumn Agenda

Sinn Féin Minister Gildernew has updated the Assembly Agriculture and Rural Development Committee on her autumn agenda. Read more

Proposal for Defence Forces to tackle crime ridiculous – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson has described as ridiculous a proposal from Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan to use the Defence Forces in the fight against crime. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said Justice Minister Brian Lenihan was wrong to have considered the proposal in the Dáil today. Read more

Ferris calls for National Fire Authority

Speaking on a Private Members motion expressing sympathy to the families of deceased Bray fire fighters Brian Murray and Mark O’Shaughnessy, North Kerry TD Martin Ferris called for the creation of a National Fire Authority to oversee a programme of integrated training and standards across the country. Read more

Ó Snodaigh outlines Sinn Féin opposition to Irish participation in Chad mission

Sinn Féin International Affairs Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has outlined Sinn Féin’s opposition to Ireland’s involvement in EU Battle Groups. Deputy Ó Snodaigh was speaking in the Dáil this evening on a motion proposing the Defence Forces participation in the EU military operation in the Republic of Chad and… Read more

Ó Caoláin calls for “urgent review” of new childcare funding scheme

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called on the Minister of State for Children Brendan Smith to suspend the introduction of a new scheme for funding community childcare. He pointed out that if implemented in its present form the new scheme will lead to… Read more

Promised Dáil and Seanad debates on collusion must take place – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has called for full-scale Dáil and Seanad debates on collusion. Speaking in the Dáil this morning Deputy Ó Caoláin said the Taoiseach must brief the new British Prime Minister Gordon Brown from an Irish point of view on the issue of collusion. Read more

Ferris Highlights Unemployment in Tralee

North Kerry Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris has raised the issue of unemployment in Tralee today in the Dáil. Highlighting that the town now has one of the highest jobless rates in the state, Deputy Ferris called on the government to tackle the various infrastructure needs of the county such… Read more

Government must drop plans for super-prison at Thornton Hall – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has called on the Government to drop its plan to build a super-prison at Thornton Hall. Deputy Ó Snodaigh was speaking in the Dáil today after a report from the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture expressed concern about increasing levels… Read more

Department spends more on warm homes in South Belfast than West Belfast

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey has questioned why more money was spent on fitting new heating systems and insulation, under the Department of Social Development Warm Homes Scheme in South Belfast than in West Belfast. Read more

McLaughlin voices concern at Aer Lingus suspension of pilots

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin has expressed concern at the action of Aer Lingus in suspending pilots who refused to participate in training of recruits for its Belfast base. This action can only be described as confrontational and will only further escalate the dispute with the unions concerned. Read more

Legislative rights for Irish speakers must not be stifled - Brolly

Commenting on media speculation that a backward move shall be made by Culture Minister Edwin Poots over the Irish Language Act, Sinn Féin Irish language spokesperson Francie Brolly has said that his party will continue to focus on the attainment of legislative protection for Irish speakers. Read more

Gildernew confident Southern Potato Brown Rot outbreak is contained

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has reacted to the announcement by the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAF) of an outbreak of Brown Rot in the South-East of Ireland. Read more

Delays in Occupational Therapy assessments

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Carál Ní Chuilín has expressed concern at the delays in seeing occupational therapists. Read more

Full implementation of Bamford Review essential

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín speaking after meeting Prof Roy McClelland, Chair of the Mental Health and Learning Disability Board, on World Mental Health Day has said that Sinn Fein support the full implementation of the Bamford Review. Read more

Minister Announces measures to minimise flooding at Cushendall

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has announced a series of measures taken to reduce flooding at the Tromra Road, Cushendall. Read more

Charities Bill no substitute for State provisions – Morgan

Sinn Féin Economics Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has welcomed the introduction of the Charities Bill 2007. However, speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Morgan said the explosion of charities on recent years is a symptom of the increasing inequality in our society. Read more

Ché Guevara 40th Anniversary 'Celebración de un Héroe Internacional'

To mark Ché Guevara's 40th anniversary Sinn Féin has this week organised a number of celebratory events throughout the city in memory of this internationalist icon. Read more

Caithfear amharc níos faide anonn ná an ghéarchéim dhaonnúil i Stráice GAZA

Agus í ag labhairt ins an Bhrúiséal inniu deir an Feisire Eorpach Bairbre de Brún nach leor na bearta daonnúla práinneacha atá riachtanach i Stráice Gaza faoi láthair. Ní mór dúinn a chinntiú go bhfuil ceisteanna stádais chríochnaithigh, amhail teorannacha stáit Phalaistínigh amach anseo, stádas Iarúsailéim agus cinniúint teifeach Palaistíneach,… Read more

Gerry Kelly announces Age Concern Volunteer of the Year Award

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly today named 88 year old great-grandmother Sarah Stewart as the Age Concern volunteer of the year. Read more

de Brún 'We need to look beyond the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip'

The European Parliament today adopted a resolution on the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, which has "reached a catastrophic level". Welcoming the resolution Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún called for the full respect of international humanitarian law and human rights, and stressed the "need to look beyond the… Read more

Gormley must reject incineration – Ferris

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson Martin Ferris has criticised Environment Minister John Gormley for advocating the need for two incinerators in Ireland. Deputy Ferris said the Green Party Minister should reject out of hand any proposals for incineration and embrace his party’s previous policy of reduce, reuse and recycle towards zero… Read more

Hospitals unable to admit patients due to health cuts – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has called for a Dáil debate on the damaging impact of the cuts imposed by the Health Service Executive. Speaking in the Dáil this morning Deputy Ó Caoláin said the freeze in funding for community care packages has meant that the National… Read more

McDonald slams McCreevy's scaremongering tactics on EU Reform Treaty

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has questioned the motivation behind EU Internal Market Commissioner Charlie McCreevy's comments yesterday that Ireland would be left in the cold if it did not ratify the forthcoming EU Reform Treaty. Read more

Anger at failures over Springvale Campus

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Paul Maskey has said that the Assembly Public Accounts Committee report into the Springvale Campus in West Belfast, where first sod was cut by Bill Clinton in 1998, which was abandoned in 2002 has highlighted how the Ulster of University and the Department of Employment… Read more

Carmel Hanna encouraged to pay more attention to Assembly business

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has said that SDLP member Carmel should pay more attention to Assembly business after claiming the SDLP would table a motion on Sellafield 24 hours Sinn Fein had tabled a motion on the issue. Read more

Garda resources at Bellanaboy should be redeployed into fight against crime – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has slammed the extent of the Garda operation at Bellanaboy County Mayo after it was revealed that €8.1million has been spent to date on Garda resources to police demonstrations against the Shell Gas pipeline. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said these valuable Garda resources would… Read more

Nitrates Miles – Scheme reaches 2,000th Farmer

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has marked the 2,000th approval for the nitrates scheme by visiting a successful farmer at his Tyrone farm. Read more

Ó Caoláin calls for rotation of Oireachtas Committee Chairpersons

Sinn Féin Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has called for the rotation of Oireachtas Committee Chairpersons on a yearly or two yearly basis. Speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Ó Snodaigh said Committee chairs should not be doled out as goodies for Government backbenchers and disappointed aspirants to ministerial… Read more

Evidence running against Foster – time to act on Environmental Protection Agency

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has said that the evidence in the Criminal Justice Inspection report that the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) and Department of the Environment (DoE) are failing to protect the environment strengthens the demand for an Environmental Protection Agency. Read more

Lack of provision of respite services for Autism – Gildernew

Sinn Féin’s MP MLA for Fermanagh South Tyrone Michelle Gildernew speaking after visiting Ashdale House, Ballygawley highlighted the need for the provision of respite services for those children who are diagnosed with Autism. Read more

HSE & IPU must resolve impending methadone dispensing crisis - Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Dublin TD and Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed today's informal talks between the HSE and Irish Pharmacists Union (IPU) to discuss the ongoing dispute over the HSE's proposed claw back scheme which will reduce payments to pharmacies dispensing scripts to GMS patients. Read more

Undocumented Irish in America – a Sinn Féin Priority

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA, who is in America for a week of public engagements, has expressed his support for the efforts of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR). Read more

Gildernew meets Fishing Industry

Sinn Féin Minister Michelle Gildernew has met with members of the Tri-Council Fisheries Working Group to discuss prospects for this year’s December Fisheries Council. Read more

Sinn Féin Senator Doherty welcomes Seanad Debate on Donegal

Speaking today Sinn Féin Seanadóir Pearse Doherty has welcomed the announcement that there will be Statements heard in the Seanad next Thursday (October 18th) regarding the Role of the Government in promoting Ireland as an attractive location for foreign investment. Read more

HSE cutbacks hitting North East worst – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has described as scandalous news that the entire Orthopaedic Department at Our Lady’s Hospital Navan will have to close for the month of December due to HSE cut backs. Read more

Ó Snodaigh expresses shock at HSE & IPU Breakdown of Talks

Following this evenings breakdown of informal talks between the HSE and Irish Pharmacist Union (IPU) and confirmation that pharmacists are to withdraw dispensing methadone as from Monday Sinn Féin Dublin TD and Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has said the fall out from this action cannot be under estimated. Read more

Ó Snodaigh demands Dept. Of Health intervene in HSE & IPU Dispute

Following yesterday’s breakdown of informal talks between the HSE and Irish Pharmacist Union (IPU) with confirmation that pharmacists are to withdraw dispensing methadone as from Monday Sinn Féin Dublin TD and Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has said the fall out from this action cannot be under estimated. Read more

Water Report signals end of water charging – no-one will pay twice

Sinn Féin Regional Development Spokesperson, Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has said that the ‘Hillyard’ Report into water spells the end of British government proposals for water charges. Read more

Ferris: Greens need to Clarify Position on Corrib

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Natural Resources, Martin Ferris TD has called on the Green Party to clarify its position in relation to the Corrib gas project. Read more

Ruane sets out Education Vision

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has set out her vision for the future of education. Read more

Gildernew keeps Supermarket contact top of agenda

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has held a range of discussions with several major supermarkets to maintain a strong representation of the local industry’s concerns. Read more

Latest memo confirms cuts to services are even worse – Ó Caoláin

A memo from the administration in Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan, shows that HSE cuts there are having a wider effect than the closure of the orthopaedic unit for a month as announced on Thursday. Commenting on the memo, Sinn Fein Health spokesperson and Cavan-Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

MLA inspired by special needs group

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has praised a local group which cares for young children with special needs after it received a prestigious award. Read more

Education Minister Presents all-Ireland Education Awards

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has presented the All Ireland Awards for Services to Education at a ceremony in Dublin. Read more

Bill of Rights Forum held in Derry

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed the visit of the Bill of Rights Forum to Derry this weekend. Read more

Consultation on all-Ireland Electricity Inter-connector

Sinn Féin Armagh City and District elected representatives including Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan attended the recent Electricity Inter-connector information session facilitated by the Electricity Service at the Market Place Theatre in the city. Read more

Anderson demands help for homeless

Action is needed to tackle the issue of homelessness on Derry’s streets, Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has insisted. Read more

Fostering Achievement initiative

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has welcomed the success of the Fostering Achievement initiative. The scheme aims to equip and support foster carers to help them let the children in their care realise their full potential. Read more

Slógadh Shinn Féin 2007 Clár

19th-21st Deireadh Fómhair - Óstán Deerpark, Binn Éadair Read more

Committee chairperson requests formal meeting with Culture Minister

Responding to news that the Minister for Culture Arts and Leisure Edwin Poots is to make an announcement regarding the forthcoming Irish language Act, Sinn Fein Culture committee chairperson Barry Mc Elduff has requested a formal meeting with the Minister as a matter of urgency. Read more

‘Sick’ loyalist graffiti in Kilrea

Sinn Féin councillor Billy Leonard has severely criticised young loyalists who painted the words ‘Who killed Danny’ on the Mill Road, Kilrea at the weekend. Read more

de Brún presents awards to Irish language students at Destined

Sinn Féin MEP, Bairbre de Brún today presented certificates of achievements to members of Destined in Derry who completed an Irish language course over the summer months. Read more

Fermac Disruption‏

Sinn Féin Derry City Councillor Lynn Fleming has called on Fermac to be more conscience of the community in which it works after cutting telephone lines and electricity cables in the Top of the Hill area while laying a new gas pipeline. Read more

'Cruinniú urghnách leis an Aire Poots de dhíth' - McElduff

Ag freagairt do tuairiscí ón meáin chumarsáide go mbeidh ráiteas ag Edwin Poots maidir le hAcht na Gaeilge, dúirt Cathaoirleach an Choiste Cultúir, Ealaíon agus Fóillíochta, Barry Mc Elduff BT go bhfuil sé ag lorg cruinniú urghnách leis an Aire Poots. Read more

Gildernew slams Greens

Sinn Fein Fermanagh South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew MLA, who is also the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, has said that now the Green party are in government with Fianna Fáil that their green credentials are fast disappearing. Read more

A victory for lone parents’ - Anderson

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has hailed the commitment from a powerful Assembly committee to protect lone parents as a significant victory. Read more

Minister marks World Rural Women’s Day

Marking World Rural Women’s Day Sinn Fein Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has praised the work of rural women and encouraged them to become actively involved in the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme. Read more

McCartney welcomes talks in Postal Dispute

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has welcomed the news that the long running postal dispute may be coming to an end after Royal Mail and the Union of Communications Worker Union (CWU) agreed terms covering all the issues in the dispute which will be considered by the union’s Executive… Read more

Ó Snodaigh Demands Harney Intervene in Methadone Crisis

Speaking from Leinster House today Sinn Féin TD and Community safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called on Health Minister Mary Harney to immediately intervene in the pharmacy services crisis. Read more

O'Dowd expresses concern after Disabled Drivers issued with Parking Fines

Sinn Féin MLA John O'Dowd has expressed concern about disabled people being issued with parking fines for allegedly displaying their Blue Badges incorrectly. Read more

Nitrates Derogation Approved – supporting farmers, protecting water quality

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, and Environment Minister Arlene Foster MLA, have announced the approval of a derogation, under the Nitrates Directive. Read more

Opt In -Opt Out in best interest of the Irish People - McDonald

In advance of this weeks EU Inter Governmental Conference (IGC) in Lisbon where the first draft of the Reform Treaty will be presented, Sinn Fein Dublin MEP and National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald has called for cool heads and sensible debate on Ireland's possible opt-in opt-out approach to the Treaty's… Read more

Bill of Rights Forum

Sinn Fein Human Rights and Equality Spokesperson, Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has said that that the Bill of Rights Forum needs to effectively engage with all sections of our society and specifically with those who feel marginalised or excluded. Read more

Housing Executive Spend Over £67,000 Cleaning Bonfire Sites - Cllr Dessie Ward

Sinn Féin Representative for Banbridge and District, Cllr Dessie Ward has received information from the Housing Executive (NIHE) outlining the cost of clearing bonfire sites on their lands in 2007 after making a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. Read more

22-years for violent sectarian attack

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that it is essential that sentencing in violent sectarian attacks properly reflects the nature of the crimes. Read more

Gildernew defends decision to retain Agricultural Wages Board

Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA, the Sinn Féin Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development has expressed disappointment at the Ulster's Farmers Unions recent criticism of her decision to retain the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB). Read more

Doherty to take campaign for transfer of Military barracks to Westminster

Sinn Féin Vice President, West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty will meet MP’s from across the political spectrum in Westminster over two days as part of the ongoing campaign to secure a number of British Military sites for use by the local community. Read more

Gildernew Encourages Local Red Meat Industry at Anuga

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA is attending the world-famous ANUGA food exhibition in Cologne, Germany, in support of our local red meat industry. Read more

Minister Harney's inaction on methadone crisis unacceptable - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin TD and Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has described today's withdrawal of methadone services by pharmacies due to a dispute with the HSE as yet another fallen pillar of the country's health service structures. Read more

Empey challenged to meet training needs of young people with disabilities

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Children and Young People, West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, is challenging Minster Reg Empey to meet the training needs of our young people with special educational needs, disability and learning difficulties. Read more

Sinn Féin to discuss Post Office closures with Post Watch

Sinn Féin’s Rural Affairs Spokesperson, Gerry McHugh MLA (Fermanagh/South Tyrone) will today meet with Post Watch to discuss the effects of the proposed closure of Rural Post Offices. Read more

Bealach amhain nó bealach eile - One way or another there will be an Irish Language Act

Responding to today's statement in the Assembly by the Minister for Culture Arts and Leisure Edwin Poots regarding the Irish language Act, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has said that Edwin Poots and the DUP have missed a unique opportunity to show mature leadership regarding Irish language legislation. Read more

Launch of Edentubber Martyrs 50th Anniversary website

The 50th Anniversary commemoration of the Edentubber Martyrs will take place this year on Sunday the 11th of November at 2pm. Read more

Doherty embarks on lobby offensive for transfer of Lisanelly and St Lucia

Sinn Féin Vice President and West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty will be engaged in a intensive series of meetings with MPs from all the main parties in Britain tomorrow and Thursday to lobby for the free transfer of the vacated MoD Military sites at Lisanelly and St Lucia in Omagh… Read more

Ó Snodaigh launches Sinn Féin proposals for 'Creating Safer Communities'

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, speaking at the launch of his party's proposals for 'Creating Safer Communities', has said statutory agencies, local councils, the Gardaí and the communities themselves including private landlords each have a role to play in creating safe communities. Read more

Morgan takes part in meeting with consultative group on the past

Louth Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan was part of a Sinn delegation led by Tyrone MLA Francie Molloy and including Belfast MLAs Alex Maskey Jennifer McCann which today met with the consultation group set up by the British Government to deal with the issue of truth recovery. Read more

SDLP accused of planning irresponsibility

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Planning, Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has accused the SDLP of not just irresponsibility on the planning issue but also gross hypocrisy. Read more

'Dodds stance will inhibit Economic growth' - McLaughlin

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has accused Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Nigel Dodds of allowing his politics to blur his vision on an all-Ireland economy. Read more

Girdwood Barracks and the Crumlin Gaol re-development

Sinn Féin North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the publication of the redevelopment plans for the Girdwood Barracks and the Crumlin Gaol sites in North Belfast. Read more

Sinn Féin meet Consultative Group on the Past

Sinn Féin spokesperson on victims issues Francie Molloy has led a party delegation including West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann and Louth TD Arthur Morgan to meet with the consultation group set up to examine ways of dealing with the past. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome clarification that no money was intended for UDA

Sinn Féin Assembly group leader John O’Dowd MLA has said welcomed the clarification from Margaret Ritchie that there will be no funding for the UDA. Read more

Gormley accused of 'NIMBY' approach to incineration

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has today slammed the decision of An Bord Pleanála to approve plans for an extension of the incinerator in Carronstown, County Meath. Read more

Communities should not be expected to put up with blatant drug dealing

Speaking at the launch of a Sinn Féin document on 'Creating Safer Communities' today Dublin City Councillor Críona Ní Dhálaigh said communities should not be expected to put up with blatant drug dealing on their doorsteps. Read more

EU Reform Treaty undermines citizens of EU member states interests

Speaking during these evenings Dáil debate on the EU Reform Treaty Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh said that despite some slight textual changes the substance of the draft Treaty text so far remains the same as it's much maligned predecessor the EU Constitution. Read more

All drivers involved in accidents should be tested for both alcohol and drugs

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has backed a Private Members Motion in the Dáil this evening which demands mandatory alcohol testing for all drivers involved in accidents. Speaking in the Dáil this evening Deputy Ó Snodaigh said all drivers involved in accidents should not only be tested… Read more

Harney must ensure dialogue between HSE and IPU – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking in the Dáil this evening, having secured a debate on the methadone crisis, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD demanded that Health Minister Mary Harney ensure that the HSE commits to engaging in a process of dialogue with the IPU to resolve the crisis. Read more

PSNI fail to intervene in second sectarian attack

Sinn Féin Representative for Banbridge and District, Cllr Dessie Ward has expressed concern that the PSNI failed to intervene while a young catholic man was the subject of a sectarian attack outside a Banbridge night spot in the early hours of last Sunday morning. Read more

Ógra Shinn Féin to Remember Sheena Campbell

This Tuesday 16th October will mark the 15th Anniversary of leading Sinn Féin activist Sheena Campbell. The Sheena Campbell Ógra Shinn Féin cumann at Queens, are organising a number events to remember her life and legacy. The two events are taking place on Wednesday 17th October at Queens University. Read more

Sinn Fein call for HPV vaccinations to help reduce cervical cancer

Sinn Féin Mid Ulster MLA Michelle O’Neill MLA, who is the Vice Chairperson of the Assembly Health Committee, has challenged the Health Minister Michael McGimpsey to provide a HPV (human papilloma viruses) vaccination programme for 16-year-old girls this year and also to instruct officials to develop a catch-up programme for… Read more

Anger at threat to Dungannon Homestart Scheme

Sinn Féin MLA for Mid-Ulster Francie Molloy has expressed concern about the future funding for Homestart Schemes in Dungannon/Armagh. Read more

Government presiding over collapse of services for public patients – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that the Government is presiding over the collapse of services to public patients in the health system. Read more

International Day - Eradication of Poverty

Sinn Féin Human Rights and Equality spokesperson Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has said more needs to be done to eradicate poverty. Read more

Sinn Fein accompany DUP to County Cavan North South Ministerial meeting

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy is accompanying the DUP’s Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure at the North/South Ministerial Council meeting with Éamon Ó Cuív TD, Minister for Community, Rural Affairs and Gaeltacht Affairs.on Inland Waterways Sectoral meeting at Slieve Russell, Co.Cavan today. Read more

Elevation of Archbishop Sean Brady

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, MP MLA has warmly the announcement that Archbishop Sean Brady is to be made a Cardinal. Read more

Royal Mail need to provide the extra resources to clear the backlog of mail

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has called on Royal Mail to put in what ever extra resources that are needed to clear the backlog of mail that has accumulated in recent weeks during industrial action. Read more

Road Safety at Loughview Primary School

After speaking in the Assembly chamber during a debate on the issue of Road Safety at Loughview Primary School Alex Maskey MLA has said that he is hopeful for progress. Read more

Sean Brady le bheith ina Chairdinéal

Chuir an leaschéad Aire Martin Mc Guinness BP, BT fáilte mór roimh an scéal go mbeidh an tArdeaspag Sean Brady ina Chairdinéal. Read more

Ferris calls on Minister to address crisis in pig sector

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has called on Minister Mary Coughlan to take immediate steps to address the crisis affecting Irish pig producers. The Kerry North TD was speaking prior to meeting an IFA delegation who are in Dublin to draw attention to the issue. Read more

McDonald tells Taoiseach EU negotiations not the time for tepidness

Speaking from Lisbon today ahead of this weeks EU Inter Governmental Conference to agree the content of the proposed Reform Treaty Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has demanded that the Toaiseach use his position as an EU Head of State to ensure the best interests of the Irish… Read more

Tackling drugs crucial to the fight against gun crime – Doherty

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has said to tackle serious gun crime in Ireland we must get to grips with the drugs crisis. Speaking in the Seanad today the Donegal Senator said Sinn Féin proposals to tackle serious drug and gun crime could see up to 4,000 Gardaí freed from… Read more

Changes in childcare funding must be opposed – Doherty

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has called for a debate in the Seanad on the changes in childcare funding due to commence next year. Speaking in the Seanad the Donegal Senator said he feared the new scheme will lead to a two-tiered system which would disadvantage low income earners. Read more

Publication of Actuarial Review demonstrates folly of Fianna Fáil proposals to cut PRSI rates

Sinn Féin Economic Affairs spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD, commenting on the publication of the latest Actuarial Review of the Social Insurance Fund, said that the findings of the Review demonstrated that the proposals put forward by Fianna Fail in advance of the election to cut PRSI contribution rates were ill… Read more

Irish Unity makes sense - Senator Doherty

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty has tonight taken part in a Trinity Historical Society debate on the proposition 'That there should be a united Ireland'. Sharing the platform are Jeffrey Donaldson DUP, David McNarry UUP and Mark Durkan of the SDLP. Read more

Slógadh - Sinn Féin's annual celebration of Irish language this weekend

This weekend republicans/Irish language activists and Gaelgeoirí from all over Ireland will gather to celebrate and discuss the success of the Irish language renaissance and the recon quest of natural resources. Read more

Concern at funding threat to community and voluntary sector

Sinn Féin Mid Ulster MLA Michelle O’Neill has expressed concern about the continued funding of the Community and Voluntary sector because of the reduction in monies coming from Europe and the failure of the Executive departments, particularly Social Development to deliver mainstream funding. Read more

Ferris gives guarded welcome to EU report on illegal fishing

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries Martin Ferris TD has given a guarded welcome to a new report from the EU Commission on combating the threat of illegal fishing. The report, published on Wednesday, proposes to tackle both the actual taking of fish within EU waters and the importation of… Read more

Ó Donnghaile dismay at Royal Mail refusal to provide Short Strand with Post Box

East Belfast Sinn Féin Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has expressed his disappointment at the decision by Royal Mail not to provide the community within the Short Strand and Bridge End area with adequate and accessible post box facilities. Read more

Morgan demands answers from Transport Chief

During this morning Dáil Order of Business Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan has demanded that the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey come to the chamber to explain the Aer Lingus revelations regarding his department in today’s media. Read more

Doherty secures Seanad debate on need for rail in Donegal

Donegal Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has secured a debate in the Seanad with the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey on the infrastructure needs of the West. Read more

Environment Committee call for all Causeway papers

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan, who is a member of the Assembly Environment Committee, has said that if the Environment Minister Arlene Foster refuses to allow the committee access all papers relevant to the Seymour Sweeney Giant’s Causeway application in order to allow it to proper scrutinise the… Read more

Doherty demands Government action on Donegal unemployment

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty, speaking in the Seanad today, demanded that the Government address unemployment and infrastructure problems in Donegal and the North West region. The Donegal Senator called for Donegal to be designated as an area of exceptional economic need and criticised the Government for failing to acknowledge… Read more

Sinn Fein facilitate Lower Ormeau community engagement with PSNI

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey, speaking after Sinn Féin last night facilitated a community engagement with the PSNI in the Lower Ormeau area, has said that, "the meeting came on the back of our engagement with community representatives, residents and the PSNI aimed at tackling anti-social behaviour in… Read more

Ó Snodaigh cautions against use of biometric data

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Equality and Human Rights Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has cautioned against some of the measures in the Passport Bill 2007 including the proposal to use biometric data which Deputy Ó Snodaigh said automatically raises human rights concerns, particularly in relation to the right to privacy. Deputy… Read more

Gildernew addresses Cross-Border Dairy Conference

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has addressed a Cross Border Conference on the Future of the Dairy Industry at Glencarn Hotel, Castleblaney. Read more

Sinn Féin call for Ombudsman investigation into role of PSNI ‘agent provocateur’

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has called for a Police Ombudsman Office investigation into the activities of a PSNI ‘agent provocateur’ particularly in the Ballymena area. Read more

Morgan slams Dempsey over Aer Lingus shambles

Speaking in the Dáil this afternoon Louth Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan criticised the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey over revelations that senior civil servants in his Department were aware of Aer Lingus’ decision to withdraw its Shannon Heathrow slot as far back as June. Read more

Taoiseach & Enda Kenny join forces to halt debate on EU Reform Treaty

Speaking today from the EU Inter Governmental Conference on the Reform Treaty taking place in Lisbon Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has demanded that the Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny engage in an open and honest debate with the Irish people on the Treaty contents. Read more

Sinn Féin back union over farm wages

Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson, Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA Gerry McHugh, who is also the party spokesperson on racism has welcomed today’s statement from the Trade Union UNITE about the protection of farm wages. Read more

Clear contrast between Culture Minister's stance and International Human Rights standards

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has echoed the concerns of the Human Rights Commissioner Monica McWilliams about the contrast between the stance taken by Culture Arts and Leisure Minister Edwin Poots and obligations under international human rights standards. These are questions that Minister Poots must answer to the Committee,… Read more

Doherty calls for more use of Irish in Houses of the Oireachtas

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has called on elected members of the Oireachtas to use more Irish in debates. Supporting calls for an Irish Language Act in the Six Counties, Senator Doherty said in a debate in the Assembly last week Unionist MLAs referred to the amount of Irish used… Read more

Adams - Irish Government has no appetite to take on challenges facing the country

Speaking at a Thomas Ashe commemoration in Kerry this evening Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said "This government has come back into office complacent and arrogant. They have shown no appetite for taking on the challenges facing ordinary people across the country." Read more

Minister presents Bravery Awards

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew presented bravery awards to four Ardglass fishermen at a ceremony held yesterday evening in Stormont. Read more

‘Letterkenny not Belfast’ - Anderson

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has called for greater North-South co-operation in further and higher education. Read more

Sinn Féin support Aer Lingus Shannon Rally

Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris has called on the people of the mid west region to support the Shannon Aer Lingus rally being held in Limerick City today at 2pm. Read more

Government must stop treating Shannon as an afterthought - Quinlivan

Following today's rally in Limerick city in support of the mid west region and Aer Lingus workers Sinn Féin representative Maurice Quinlivan has today called on the government to stop treating Shannon as an afterthought . North Kerry TD Martin Ferris and Nenagh Town Councillor Seamus Morris also attended the… Read more

Ó Snodaigh demands government act now on Dr. Lydia Foy ruling

Sinn Féin Dublin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has welcomed the court's ruling that Dr. Lydia Foy's privacy has been breached by the lack of legislation allowing her to change her gender on her birth certificate. He has also demanded that the government act immediately to amend legislation allowing transgendered people… Read more

Sinn Féin condemn Oram murder - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin TD Caoimhghín Ó Caolain has strongly condemned last night's brutal murder of a young man in Oram, Co. Monaghan. Read more

Shock at County Monaghan death

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP Conor Murphy MLA has condemned the brutal murder of a man from Cullyhanna in the County Monaghan village of Oram. Read more

Adams condemns brutal murder of Paul Quinn

Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams MP, MLA, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA and Conor Murphy MP, MLA the Minister for Regional Development have condemned the “brutal and savage murder of Paul Quinn” and have called on “anyone with any information to make it immediately available to either the… Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes HSE and IPU resumption of discussions

Sinn Féin Dublin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has this morning welcomed the news that Pharmacists intend to resume dispensing methadone following an agreement between the HSE and Irish Pharmacists Union (IPU) to re-enter negotiations on community pharmacy services dispensing fees. Read more

Sinn Féin Councillors warned of threat to lives

Five Sinn Féin Councillors, including Glengormely Councillor Briege Meehan and four North Belfast Councillors were visited by the PSNI last night, Sunday 22nd October and informed that they had information that their lives is under threat from a Dissident source. Read more

Justice Minister must act following latest gangland murder - Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has condemned the latest gun murder of a man in Finglas last night and said this latest act of gang violence reinforces Sinn Féin's demand that the tackling of serious drug and gun crime be prioritised by the Department of Justice. Read more

Complete overhaul of winter fuel payments needed

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has called for a complete overhaul of the winter fuel payment scheme to deal with the current rising fuel poverty crisis affecting many homes in the city. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome progress on scrapping Water Charges

Sinn Féin Regional development Spokesperson, Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has welcomed the commitment of the Executive not to introduce the separate water charge that was proposed by British direct rule Ministers. Read more

Doherty describes change of attitude towards NW Cancer Centre as significant

West Tyrone Sinn Féin MP Pat Doherty has described as ‘significant’ the recent change in attitude by North/South Health Ministers Michael McGimpsey and Mary Harney towards the demand for a satellite cancer centre to be established in the Northwest. Read more

Cost of policing Loyalist parades ‘unacceptable’ – Cllr Willie Clarke MLA

Sinn Féin South Down MLA Cllr Willie Clarke has described the cost of policing Loyalist parades in Kilkeel during the summer marching season as an ‘unacceptable drain on resources’, after obtaining figures from the PSNI that showed the cost of policing band parades in the town was over £140,000. Read more

Sinn Féin all-Ireland coordinator appointed to Review Team

Sinn Féin all-Ireland coordinator Sean Oliver is one of two First and deputy First Minister appointments to the Review team looking at the areas of all-Ireland co-operation and implementation bodies. Read more

McGuinness – ‘absolutely opposed to any funding whatsoever going to the UDA’

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA speaking during Question Time today has said that ‘everyone in the Executive - am totally and absolutely opposed to any funding whatsoever going to the UDA, whether they decommission their weapons or not’. Read more

Sinn Féin support Assembly debate on Abortion

Sinn Féin Assembly group leader, John O’Dowd MLA has said that the party voted to support a DUP motion on the draft guidelines on abortion issued to medical staff by the Department of Health. Read more

Statement on review of water and sewerage services: Executive response to strand one report

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister, Newry Armagh MLA Conor Murphy in a statement to the Assembly has set out the response of the Executive to the ‘Hillyard’ Report on water and sewerage services. Read more

Child Poverty Inquiry in Derry

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has said that the powerful Assembly scrutiny committee for the Office of the first Minister and Deputy first Minister will be in Derry tomorrow (Wednesday October 24th) to take evidence as part of a wide-ranging inquiry into child poverty. Read more

Ferris criticises proposal to close Coast Guard stations

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on the Marine, Martin Ferris TD, has strongly criticised a proposal to decommission the Coast Guard stations at Valentia Island, Malin Head and Dublin. This will lead to the loss of 17 jobs in Valentia and further losses in both Donegal and Dublin. Deputy Ferris raised… Read more

Equality at the heart of Government - McGuinness

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA opened the Equality Commission Annual Conference in Belfast today. Read more

As Sinn Féin predicted, no room for tax cuts – Morgan

Sinn Féin’s Economic Affairs spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has said that it is time for the Government to admit that they got it wrong in proposing tax cuts in the face of an economic slowdown. Morgan was responding this morning following warnings from the ESRI that taxes may have to… Read more

Education Chief must enact Student Support Bill - Doherty

Speaking this morning at a demonstration outside Leinster House in support of the Union of Students of Ireland (USI) call for the Student Support Bill to be immediately enacted, Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has criticised Minister Hanifin for reneging on her commitment to introduce new legislation ensuring the timely… Read more

Lenihan must back up CAB pledge with actions – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed the pledge from Justice Minister Brian Lenihan that the Criminal Assets Bureau is to work more closely with Gardaí in order to target all levels of drug dealers. However Deputy Ó Snodaigh said Minister Lenihan must back up his pledge… Read more

Good Friday Agreement Committee welcome – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has welcomed the establishment of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and has noted his party's intention to build on this initial step towards 32 county representation in the Oireachtas. Read more

Sinn Féin exclusion from Dáil Committees undemocratic – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil Group Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has described the attempt to exclude Sinn Féin from all Dáil Committees with the exception of the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement committee, as totally undemocratic and a slap in the face to the constituents who vote for the party.… Read more

Constituency Commission fail to address changing demographics of the state

Sinn Féin Environment spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has described this afternoons report from the Constituency Commission as a missed opportunity. Deputy Ferris said ‘The Commission didn’t address the changing demographics of the state, they didn’t address the problems created as a result of the breaking down of county boundaries and… Read more

Sinn Féin MEPs vote to 'toughen up' EU position on Climate Change

Sinn Féin's all-Ireland team has been working together on the issue of Climate Change in the European Parliament in Strasbourg. Both Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald and northern MEP Bairbre de Brún voted together in the parliament's influential Climate Change Committee to toughen the EU's position on climate change in… Read more

Ferris calls for stringent food labelling

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has called for a much stricter system of food labelling to be introduced to protect the interests of Irish farmers and consumers. The Kerry North TD was speaking in the Dáil this evening in support of a Private Members Motion on… Read more

Kelly opens anti-racism conference

Promoting greater understanding between communities is the key to a successful society. That was the message from Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MP MLA today as he opened the ‘Stepping into Diversity’ Conference at the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast. Read more

Gildernew welomes local food promotion campaign

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has welcomed a new campaign to promote local food. Read more

Boylan urges Minister to introduce zero tolerance regarding alcohol and drug driving

Vice Chairperson of the Assembly's Road Safety Committee Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has once again called for a zero alcohol and drug driving limit throughout the island. Read more

Constituency Commission Report missed opportunity - Ferris

Sinn Féin Environment spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has reiterated that yesterdays report from the Constituency Commission can only be described as a missed opportunity. Deputy Ferris said 'The Commission has not addressed the changing demographics of the state, they have not addressed the problems created as a result of the… Read more

Government must think outside the box to cut CO2 emissions - McDonald

Speaking after this mornings European Parliamentary vote on CO2 emissions Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has highlighted the need for member state governments to think outside the box when it comes to taking cars off the roads. Read more

New threats issued to Sinn Féin councillors

Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast Gerry Kelly said that threats delivered to five party Councillors in the area overnight were unacceptable and would not prevent or prohibit the Councillors continuing to serve the community who elect them. Read more

Culture Minister to be challenged over blasé attitute to Irish language legislation

Speaking before tomorrow's Culture Committee meeting, where the Culture Minister Edwin Poots shall address the Committee members, Sinn Féin Irish language spokesperson Francie Brolly MLA has said that his party shall fervently challenge the Minister over his lack of provisions for the rights of Irish speakers. Read more

Sinn Féin to contact FIFA over clear Good Friday Agreement breach- Maskey MLA

West Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Paul Maskey has reacted with anger over the news that FIFA, the International Football Body has ruled that the FAI will no longer allow six county footballers to play for Ireland. Read more

Minister Hanifan needs to consult with students on grant review - Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad this afternoon Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has criticised Minister Hanifin for reneging on her commitment to deliver on the Student Support Bill. The Senator also highlighted the need for the need for the Department of Education to consult with students to look at increasing grant… Read more

Environment Minister and DUP must lay bare facts over Visitor Centre- Mc Kay MLA

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that the Minister for the Environment Arlene Foster and the DUP must lay bare all the facts regarding the proposed application for a visitors centre at the Giants Causeway. Read more

Smoking kills 650,000 people every year in Europe - de Brún

Sinn Féin's MEP and former Health Minister Bairbre de Brún has supported proposals in the European Parliament in Strasbourg today on moving to a Europe free from tobacco smoke and providing practical help for smokers who want to quit smoking. Read more

Morgan welcomes positive response from Minister to proposal for penalty points system for rogue employers

Sinn Féin Economic Affairs and Employment spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has welcomed the comments by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mícheál Martin in the Dail today that the proposals from Sinn Féin for the introduction of a penalty points system was a “useful suggestion”. Read more

Doherty outlines Sinn Féin key proposals for tackling suicide in Seanad debate

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has said his party has identified suicide as a distinct priority area requiring concerted co-operation between Government, the health services, the voluntary sector and communities. Speaking during a Seanad debate on the Government’s current Suicide Prevention Strategy Senator Doherty criticised the government for not doing… Read more

Minister wrong to long finger new blood alcohol limit for motorists – Doherty

Sinn Féin Transport and Road Safety Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has said a zero drug and alcohol limit should be included in the Road Safety Strategy which is to be published by Transport Minister Noel Dempsey and An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern tomorrow. Senator Doherty criticised the Minister for referring the… Read more

E-Border must not be imposed on Irish people - McDonald

Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has called on An Taoiseach Bertie Ahern to seek a cast iron commitment from British Prime Minister Gordon Brown that he does not intend to impose an E-Border on the Irish people. Speaking today, after it was announced that the British Government is… Read more

Time for Minister to act on Garda civilianisation

Responding to the latest official crime figures which show a 50% increase in murders in the last three months Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said Justice Minister Brian Lenihan must implement Sinn Féin’s proposal to free up approximately 4,000 fully trained Gardaí from administrative duties and re-deploy… Read more

Government cannot afford to cut taxation - Morgan

Speaking during the debate on the Pre Budget outlook this evening Sinn Féin spokesperson on Finance Arthur Morgan TD has said government cannot continue to lower taxes and deliver equitable and accessible public services and social protections. Morgan slammed Government proposals to cut PRSI contribution and to further reduce the… Read more

18 new bills presented to the Assembly

Measures to improve the State Pension, restructure education bodies and overhaul the regulation of charities are among the 18 Bills the Executive has identified for the 2007/2008 assembly Session. Read more

No place for Le Pen in Ireland's EU Reform Treaty Campaign - McDonald

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP and National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald has strongly rejected far right French National Front leader Jean-Marie Le Pen's offer to come to Ireland to support the No Vote on the forthcoming EU Reform Treaty Campaign. Read more

Ó Snodaigh welcomes Coolock drugs seizure

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has congratulated Gardaí on the seizure of €750,000 worth of heroin in Coolock last night. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said while all drug seizures are welcome they are a mere drop in the ocean when compared to the amount of drugs entering the… Read more

Doherty calls on North South Ministerial Council progress Foras na Gaeilge jobs in Gaoth Dobhair

Speaking ahead of a meeting of the North South Ministerial Council tomorrow Donegal Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty called on the Council to push ahead with a proposal to locate 30 jobs for Foras na Gaeilge in Goath Dobhair in Donegal. Senator Doherty said the proposal was made in 2003… Read more

Sinn Féin commitment to Equality reflected in the Budget, PfG and Investment Strategy

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA speaking about the draft Budget, Programme for Government (PfG) and Investment Strategy has said that they reflect Sinn Féin’s commitment to equality and eradicating poverty. Read more

Sinn Féin give firm arguments to Culture Minister over need for language legislation

Sinn Féin Irish language spokesperson Francie Brolly has today directly challenged the Culture Minister over his failure to enact Irish language legislation. Read more

de Brún calls for advanced direct payments for livestock farmers

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has today supported calls in the European Parliament for advanced direct payments for livestock farmers as the price of food and feed continues to rise at an alarming rate. She has also joined fellow MEPs in calling on the Commission to investigate the effects… Read more

Minister holds round-table talks with children and young people's sector

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly held round-table talks with key players from the children and young people’s sector today. Read more

Community Childcare Subvention Scheme must be suspended – Ó Caoláin

Speaking from the Dáil this morning Sinn Fein TD and Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin called on the Minister of State Brendan Smith for Children to immediately suspend the introduction of the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme. Read more

Regional cancer centres must be retained in the west – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has expressed his support for a protest march taking place in Sligo this afternoon and another taking place in Mayo at the weekend to demand the retention of the cancer network in the west of Ireland. Speaking today Deputy Ó Caoláin said… Read more

Sinn Féin calls for national 'literacy crusade' - Doherty

Speaking from the Seanad last night Sinn Fein Donegal Senator called on the Fianna Fáil led government to stop congratulating themselves on their aspirations regarding lifelong learning, and to instead act on them. Read more

McGuinness – new jobs and investment in infrastructure

Thousands of new jobs and billions of pounds of investment in infrastructure are at the centre of plans announced in the Assembly by the First Minister and deputy First Minister. Read more

Warning of planning chaos

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Planning, Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has called for a clear plan of action to ensure that there is no crisis in planning system after Environment Minister Arlene Foster re-introduced PPS 14 on the same day that the decision of British direct rule Regional Development Minister… Read more

Doherty calls for urgent Seanad debate on Community Childcare Subvention Scheme

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has again raised the serious implications of the impending Community Childcare Subvention Scheme in the Seanad today and has demanded that the Minister of State Brendan Smith withdraw his threat to withhold funding from centres. Read more

Plight of Polish Moneypoint workers shows problems associated with sub contracting

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers Rights Arthur Morgan TD has said that the plight of Polish workers the ESB plant in Moneypoint demonstrated the problems associated with sub contracting. Morgan welcomed the fact that there were indications that progress was being made at the Labour Relations Commission. Read more

Waiting list figures illustrate housing crisis in south Down

Sinn Féin Assembly Member Cllr Willie Clarke has described as ‘unacceptable and scandalous’ the number of people currently waiting to be re-housed throughout south Down after Margaret Ritchie revealed that there are 2,449 people on the waiting list in the South Down area. Read more

Ó Snodaigh identifies gap in Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Bill 2007

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has said Sinn Féin has identified a gap in the Criminal Law (Human Trafficking) Bill 2007. Speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Ó Snodaigh welcomed the publishing of the Bill but said while it makes it an offence to traffic children or adults… Read more

Response to Mourne National Park Working Party Report

Commenting on the recent publication of the Mourne National Park Working Party’s Report to the Environment Minister Arleen Foster, South Down Sinn Féin Assembly Member Caitríona Ruane has said that it is essential that the park can benefit ordinary people from both rural and urban areas. Read more

Disappointment as Road Safety Strategy fails to deal with blood alcohol levels

Sinn Féin Transport and Road Safety Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has described the new Road Safety Strategy published today as a missed opportunity as it failed to introduce a new blood alcohol level for motorists. Senator Doherty said he had urged the Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey to ensure that… Read more

Martin Ferris appointment to Agriculture Committee - Victory says Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin TD and Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has this afternoon described Deputy Martin Ferris appointment to the Agriculture and Food Oireachtas Committee as a victory for democracy. Government Chief Whip Tom Kitt reversed his decision to exclude Deputy Ferris from Dáil committee membership following an angry and impassioned… Read more

Sellafield should close

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay moving the debate on Sellafield at the Assembly today has said that there is an opportunity to send a clear message to the British Government that all the major political institutions on this island want to see the Sellafield nuclear plant… Read more

Massive pay increases for government unacceptable - Morgan

Sinn Féin TD and party spokesperson on Finance Arthur Morgan has described the announcement of significant pay rises for 1,600 senior public servants including the Taoiseach, Tanaiste and government Ministers as totally unacceptable. Read more

Sinn Féin councillor target of ‘aborted’ attack

Sinn Féin Glengormley Councillor Briege Meehan has said that the PSNI informed her tonight, Thursday 25th October that she was the target of an ‘aborted’ attack earlier today. Read more

Sinn Féin to discuss border strategy

This weekend, Sinn Féin activists from Ireland’s border counties, and beyond, will come together in South Armagh to discuss the party’s strategy for the border region, and to be briefed on the ongoing work the party is involved in to tackle the many issues which affect the people who live… Read more

Gildernew meets farming Unions

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has met with a joint delegation from the UFU and NIAPA to discuss a range of issues. Read more

Regional Development Minister welcomes draft budget allocations

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, MP, MLA has welcomed the draft Budget 2007 announced by Peter Robinson, Minister for Finance and Personnel. Read more

Creative Industries breathe new life into disused factory

Sinn Féin Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has officially opened the Creative Industries Workspace Facilities at Manderwood Park in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh. Read more

McGuinness opens Sperrin Integrated College

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, who approved the initial funding for Sperrin Integrated College when he was Education Minister, returned there today to officially open the school’s new £11.55million premises in Magherafelt. Read more

Gildernew welcomes draft budget increases for DARD

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has welcomed the announcement of the draft budget which increases DARD’s budget by an average of 2.6% per year. Read more

Housing stress hiding the reality of being Homeless

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed the publication of the Housing Executives annual report but said she is disappointed that the need for provision of new social housing in Derry is missing from the report and warned that that using the term ‘Housing stress’ is hiding the reality… Read more

New regulations for learner drivers harsh – Doherty

Sinn Féin Transport and Road Safety Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has said there is an onus on the Government to speed up waiting times for driving tests if they are to introduce fines for learner drivers who are caught driving without a fully qualified driver in their car. Senator Doherty… Read more

Integration across the border region is a key strand of overall All Ireland Agenda - Ó Caoláin

Delivering Sinn Féin's All-Ireland Department seminar opening addresses at Tí Chulainn in South Armagh yesterday Sinn Féin TD and party Dáil leader Caoimhghán Ó Caoláin said it was the party's job to turn All-Ireland aspirations into realities. Read more

Seagate expected to announce major job losses for Limavady - Brolly

Sinn Féin MLA for East Derry, Francie Brolly has expressed serious concern for the local economy if Seagate confirms rumours of major job losses or plant closure tomorrow. Read more

All-Ireland co-operation on Older People Issues

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady speaking ahead of attending the Positive Ageing cross-border Advocacy conference in The Hilgrove Hotel in Monaghan on Thursday has said that advocacy a key way to bring older people back into society. Read more

SDLP and UUP living in political denial

Sinn Féin Assembly member John O’Dowd has accused the SDLP and UUP of living in an arrogant fantasy world of political denial. Mr O’Dowd’s remarks come after recent whinging in the media from both parties about their status in the Executive. Read more

Massive Health inequalities demand ‘total’ response from Executive

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Carál Ní Chuilín MLA has said that the Health Inequalities statistics published today by the Department of Health requires a response from the Executive collectively and from each and every minister. Read more

McKay expresses condolences after Glenshane Pass tragedy

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that people in Rasharkin are in shock after the sudden death of a young man in a car accident over the weekend. Rory Duncan was just 18 years old. Read more

"Concerns over British Government handling of Pat Finucane inquiry"- de Brún MEP

Today, a Sinn Féin delegation, including Gerry Adams MP MLA, Martin Mc Guinness MP MLA and Bairbre de Brún MEP, met the British Secretary of State Shaun Woodward. Speaking after the meeting Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún said, "Today afforded us with an opportunity to meet with the British… Read more

'Proper remuneration packages must be given to Seagate workers' - Brolly MLA

Sinn Féin MLA for East Derry, Francie Brolly has expressed sincere disappointment at the loss of Seagate jobs and has demanded proper remuneration packages to the affected Seagate workers. Read more

Government inaction leaves North West barren of economic prospects - Doherty

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty has today stated that Seagate Technology's announcement of over 900 job losses further evidences the unemployment crisis of the North West. Read more

Failure to capture killers tantamount to collusion - O'Dowd

Upper Bann Sinn Féin MLA John O Dowd has said that the Police Ombudsman Investigation into the killing of Gerard and Rory Cairns highlights the complete failure of the RUC to attempt to apprehend their killers and once again shows the Special Branch as a force within a force. Read more

Gerry Adams to speak at London peace event

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP will be in London tomorrow. He is speaking at a special event organised in aid of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Read more

"Urgent meeting needed between DETI Minister, Invest NI and Enterprise committee"- Maskey SF

Sinn Féin MLA and Enterprise Committee Vice Chair Paul Maskey has requested a meeting between the DETI Minister Nigel Dodds, Invest NI and the assembly Enterprise, Trade and Investment committee to request answers over the devastating job losses in Co Derry. Read more

Solar powered public lighting to be piloted in Donegal – Doherty

Donegal Sinn Féin Senator and Transport Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has announced that solar powered public lighting is to be introduced on a pilot basis on the N56 at Meenacuing and on a section of the N13 Derry to Letterkenny route. Read more

Role of Parents in Our Society needs greater recognition - McGuinness

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA today called for greater recognition of the work and role of parents in our society. Read more

Witness protection programme must be part of larger plan to tackle crime

Speaking ahead of a Debate on a Labour Party Bill which calls for clear guidelines for witness protection programmes Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said Sinn Féin would have no problem with the Bill itself but stressed that The Labour Party are being very naïve if they… Read more

Concern over police involvement in deportation cases- Maskey MLA

Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board Member Alex Maskey has expressed grave concern over the deportation of East Belfast resident Aderonke Falode to a draconian and controversial detention centre; Dungavel in South Lanarkshire, Scotland and shall raise the issue of PSNI involvement in deportation cases with the Chief Constable. Read more

Removing obstacles to cross border mobility a Sinn Féin priority

West Tyrone MLA Barry McElduff says that Sinn Fein is determined that progress continues apace in removing obstacles to cross border mobility after the party ensured that the issue was to the fore of the agenda of the second meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) held in the Ballymascanlon… Read more

Exploring different routes to peace - Gerry Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams will this evening make a keynote address at a special event organised in aid of the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Mr. Adams said 'The Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace is an optimistic example of how people, who have been grievously… Read more

McLaughlin calls for radical rethink on job creation

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin has called for a radical rethink on our approach to job creation. Read more

Welcome for Older People and Domiciliary Care report-Ó Dowd

Sinn Féin MLA and chair of the Public Accounts Committee John O Dowd has welcomed the publication of the Audit Office report "Older People and Domiciliary Care"; Read more

Ferris slams EU bullying on GM

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on the Environment Martin Ferris TD has described the process whereby the EU Commission gets to have the final decision on member state’s regulations on GM as bullying. Read more

Stand up for Derry

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has announced a ‘Stand Up For Derry’ campaign initiative that will demand major new investment for the north west. Read more

Racism challenges are very real and urgent – Gerry Kelly

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA today described the challenges facing us in the battle to stamp out racism here, as very real and urgent. Read more

Sinn Fein call for Review of Blue Badge disability parking

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Disability, Mid Ulster MLA Michelle O’Neill has called for a review of how the Blue Badge disability parking scheme operates across the north. Read more

FÁS Director General agrees need for cross border training strategy

Sinn Féin Economic Affairs Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD and Regional Development Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty today met with FÁS Director General Rody Molloy to outline the party's demands on the organisations role in retraining and upskilling workers in vulnerable sectors. Read more

Enshrine right to housing in Constitution – Doherty

Donegal Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty ahs called for the right to housing to be enshrined in the Constitution. Speaking during a Seanad debate on Developments in the Housing Market Senator Doherty said housing policy in Ireland is fundamentally inequitable and unbalanced. Read more

Health Minister must review Childcare Subvention Scheme – Ó Caoláin

Speaking from the Dáil this evening Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said he had no objection to a Supplementary Estimate for the Department of Health and Children to cover the shortfall in funding for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme. Read more

Witness protection programme must be part of larger plan to tackle crime – Doherty

Speaking during a Seanad Debate on a Labour Party Bill which calls for clear guidelines for witness protection programmes Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty said while Sinn Féin has no problem supporting the Bill itself witness protection must be just one part in a wider plan to tackle serious crime.… Read more

Harney must spell out plans for Crumlin Children’s Hospital – Ó Snodaigh

Dublin South Central Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called on Health Minister Mary Harney spell out exactly what her plans are for Crumlin Children’s Hospital after the HSE published a progress report on the new National Paediatric Hospital which is to replace Crumlin, Tallaght and Temple Street Children’s… Read more

Same sex couples must be allowed marry, raise a family and adopt - Ó Snodaigh

Speaking from the Dáil this evening Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh said he fully supports the right of same sex couples to marry and found a family, including by adoption. Deputy Ó Snodaigh also affirmed the party's support the the right of unmarried and same sex couples to enter… Read more

Morgan questions Dempsey’s ability to oversee Road Safety Policy

Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan has questioned Transport Minister Noel Dempsey’s ability to oversee the new Road Safety Policy. Speaking in the Dáil this evening the Louth TD said the Minister’s humiliating u-turn on the proposals affecting provisional licence holders seems to be just another in a string of farcical… Read more

Sinn Féin meet Human Right Commission

A Sinn Féin delegation today met with the Human Rights Commission to discuss the Irish Language Act. Read more

Cruinniú Sinn Féin le Coimisiún Cearta Daonna

Bhuail toscaireacht de chuid Sinn Féin leis an Choimisiún um Cearta Daonna le ceist Acht Gaeilge a phlé. Read more

October 2007 Archives (Latest News)

October 1, 2007

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