December 2007 Archives (Latest News)

€1.75 billion shortfall in tax take demonstrates proposed tax cuts were never viable

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Economic Affairs, Arthur Morgan TD commenting on the publication of the ‘2008 Estimates of Receipts and Expenditure’ said that its publication further demonstrated the correctness of the Sinn Féin’s opposition to unviable tax cutting proposals made by Fianna Fail and other parties in advance of the… Read more

Keep up pressure on HSE and Government – Ó Caoláin

Speaking at a protest in Navan, Co. Meath Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said that the general public had an important role to play in ensuring better health services. Read more

Road Carnage – Slow Down

Sinn Féin Road Safety Spokesperson, Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan speaking after 5 road deaths over the last 24 hours has said that every driver needs to take responsibility on the roads and slow down. Read more

New Ógra Shinn Féin Derry Cumann launched

The launch of Ógra Shinn Féin Doire took place at a packed Rath Mór Sinn Féin office with young activists from Derry, Donegal and Tyrone present. As well as the launch of the new cumann, activists also vowed to play a leading role in the ‘Stand Up For Derry’ campaign. Read more

Derry ‘must speak with one voice’

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed this week’s public consultation on the Assembly’s draft Programme for Government, Investment Strategy and Budget. Read more

Maskey questions leniency for suspected drug dealers

Sinn Féin South Belfast MLA and Policing Board member Alex Maskey has questioned the decision by the judiciary to grant bail on a number of occassions to suspected drug dealers with, at times, no objection from the PSNI. Read more

Farset Judicial Review

Sinn Féin Assembly group leader John O’Dowd MLA commenting on the announcement that Farset have launched a Judicial Review of decision to withdraw funding for the Community Transformation Initiative (CTI) has said that no-one want to see public money going to the UDA. Read more

Bomb scares at republican homes in North and West Belfast

Sinn Féin North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has confirmed that there were bomb warnings at the homes of Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams and Ardoyne republican Eddie Copeland earlier today. Read more

Drink spiking

Sinn Féin West Belfast Assembly members Sue Ramsey and Jennifer McCann are calling for the Minister of Health to make date rape prevention kits available free of charge in response to the growing problem of drinks being spiked. Read more

Resignation of Gerry McHugh

Sinn Féin Assembly Group Leader John O’Dowd commenting on the resignation from the party of Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA Gerry McHugh has said that he is disappointed and questioned why Mr McHugh failed to raise issues of concern within the party. Read more

Threats to republicans

Sinn Féin North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly speaking after bomb warnings and threats were made against a number of Republicans across Belfast over the weekend has said that these so-called dissidents have nothing to offer. Read more

Sinn Fein Ballymoney Councillor threatened

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA, Policing Board member Daithí McKay has condemned the sick threat against local Sinn Fein councillor Anita Cavlin. Read more

Gildernew launches New Emergency Planning Agreement with Fire Service

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA and the Chief Fire Officer Colin Lammey, have today launched a new emergency planning agreement at Stormont. Read more

Sinn Féin will oppose any increases in stealth taxes in Wednesday’s Budget – Morgan

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s Budget Sinn Féin TD and Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan today said Sinn Féin will oppose any increases in stealth taxes in Wednesday’s Budget. Morgan also said that that government must begin to deliver real value for money when it comes to public spending and any increase… Read more

Concern at threat to community projects funded by EU Peace money

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann has expressed concern that Community Projects funded under Peace II monies may not get further funding after funding ends in June 2008. Read more

de Brún congratulates St Mary's College, Creggan on winning climate change photo competition

Sinn Féin MEP, Bairbre de Brún has congratulated St Mary's College in Creggan, Derry on winning this year's all-Ireland photo competition on climate change which was co-sponsored by the European Parliament and the Departments of Environment, North and South. Read more

Doherty - transfer of Lisanelly and St Lucia MoD sites on agenda for Des Browne meeting

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty is scheduled to meet British Defence Secretary Des Browne in London this Wednesday as pressure builds for the vacated MoD sites at Lisanelly and St Lucia in Omagh to be transferred to the Six County Executive for the development of an educational village… Read more

Future of Kerry’s Cancer Services in Prof. Tom Keane’s hands

The future of Cancer Services at Kerry General Hospital now lies in the hands of the newly appointed Director of the National Cancer Control Programme Professor Tom Keane. According to an email from the General Manager of Kerry General Hospital Margie Lynch to North Kerry TD Martin Ferris, Prof. Keane… Read more

Dublin Sinn Féin motion to support victims of domestic violence passed unanimously - Minhan

Dublin Sinn Féin Councillor Louise Minihan has welcomed last nights unanimous decision by Dublin City Councillors to support the Sinn Féin motion to phase out the use of B&Bs for victims of domestic violence and to instead introduce a sufficient quantity of purpose-built emergency accommodation. Read more

de Brún plays key role at Conference on EU, Turkey and the Kurds

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún MEP will today play a key role at the Fourth International Conference on EU, Turkey and the Kurds. Ms de Brún will act as a moderator at the Brussels conference which is dedicated to the memory of the Kurdish Writer Mehmet Uzun and organised… Read more

Minister Ruane outlines Education reforms

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has outlined her proposals to reform the education system. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome Education Minister's visionary statement

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson, Paul Butler MLA has welcomed today's 'visionary statement on the future of six county education' from Caitríona Ruane. Read more

Dislocation of the ‘United Kingdom’ has been a slow but steady process

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Martina Anderson speaking in the Assembly today has said that the dislocation of the ‘United Kingdom’ has been a slow but steady process and encouraged unionists to begin to debate a new future within the context of Irish Unity. Read more

Aisling an Aire dár gcóras oideachais

Ag fógairt aisling nua dár gcóras oideachais inniu, dúirt an t-Aire Oideachais an Tuaiscirt, Caitríona Ruane; "Tá sé raite agam roimhe sa tionól seo go mbeinn sásta moltaí a thabhairt chun tosaigh atá dírithe ar chinntiú go mbíonn fáil cothrom ag gach páiste ar oideachas iar-bhunscolaíochta is fearr." Read more

Outlining a Vision for our Education system

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane speech on the future of the Education system in full. Read more

Sinn Féin support NWCI demonstration for improved Cancer Care Services

Speaking after attending the National Women’s Council demonstration outside Leinster House held in solidarity with the women affected by the failures in cancer care services Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan said his party will continue to hold the Health Minister and the entire cabinet to account. Read more

Welcome PSNI decision to give Coroner access to Stalker/Sampson Report

Sinn Féin MLA John O’Dowd has welcomed the decision of the PSNI to give the Coroner John Lecky access to the Stalker/Sampson Report into the shoot-to-kill deaths of six unarmed men in the North Armagh area in 1982. Read more

Dublin Sinn Féin motion on Childcare Subvention Scheme supported unanimously by City Council - Ní Dhálaigh

Dublin Sinn Féin Councillor Críona Ní Dhálaigh has welcomed the City Councils decision during last nights meeting to unanimously support her Emergency Motion calling on the Minister for Children to suspend plans to introduce the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme. Read more

Ramsey voices concern at funding for community adult education

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, has expressed concern over the future of the community adult education sector. Read more

Sinn Féin MLA's meet on Undocumented Irish

Sinn Fein MLA's met in Stormont today with Donegal Councillor, Mick McMahon, spokesperson for Family and Friends of the Undocumented Irish in America. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss setting up a working group with the intention of gaining political support for the regularisation of residency qualifications for… Read more

Sinn Féin call for action on Drink Spiking

Sinn Féin West Belfast Assembly members Sue Ramsey and Jennifer McCann are calling for the Minister of Health to make date rape prevention kits available free of charge in response to the growing problem of drinks being spiked. Read more

Ferris Raises Issue of Salmon Compensation Fund

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries, Martin Ferris TD, this evening raised in the Dáil the ongoing issue of the compensation package being offered to drift net salmon fishermen. The Kerry North TD spoke on the matter during a debate on elections to regional fisheries boards. Read more

Government must urgently invest in West in wake of Abbott announcement

Sinn Féin Councillor Padraig MacLochlainn has described the loss of 500 jobs from the Galway plant of Abbott Laboratories as a severe blow for the county and the West of Ireland and called on the government to invest in the West to counter the effects of the job cuts. Read more

Council of Ministers should regularise the position Agency workers

Commenting on the European Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels over the next two days, Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called on the Council to regularise the position Agency workers. Read more

Government must properly resource Gaelscoil Portlaoise - Doherty

Sinn Fein Senator Pearse Doherty has this evening described the lack of facilities in Gaelscoil Portlaoise as a shameful indictment of this government's failed education policy making. Read more

Council wastes €19m on incineration promotion - Doolan

Sinn Féin's Dublin Environment Spokesperson, Councillor Daithí Doolan has today slammed, "City Council officials for wasting €19m of public money on promoting the Poolbeg incinerator." Read more

Sinn Féin Strabane DPP nominations

Sinn Fein West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has said he is disappointed that the Sinn Féin group on Strabane District Council did not to reach agreement on its full compliment of party nominations for Strabane District Policing Partnership at this time. Read more

Sinn Féin demand government support EU Agency Workers Directive

Speaking this morning from Brussels ahead of today's Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has demanded that the Irish government stop shirking its responsibility to temporary workers and agree to support the Agency Workers Directive. Read more

Gildernew visits Fishing Ports

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA is visiting Kilkeel, Ardglass and Portavogie fishing ports ahead of the crucial December Council negotiations in Brussels. Read more

Sinn Féin demand urgent action by government on cocaine crisis – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Fein Justice spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD speaking in the Dáil today in response to the drug related death of Kevin Doyle yesterday called on the Government to reconsider a Sinn Féin motion from last year which called for the resourcing and implementation of an action plan to tackle… Read more

Environmental Information needs to be shared on all-Ireland basis

Sinn Féin Derry City Councillor Billy Page has said that the time is right for the monitoring of Health and Environmental data to be done on an all Ireland basis. Read more

Investing for Health Strategy the key to better health

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the commitment of the Health Minister to public health at an ‘Investing for Health’ conference in Armagh City Hotel today but warned Michael McGimpsey that the to key improving health outcomes and taking pressure of the Health Service is to ensure… Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes Seanad debate on Malin Head and Valentia Rescue Centres

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has today welcomed the Seanad's agreement to hold a debate before Christmas on the relocation of the Marine Rescue Coordination Centres at Malin Head and Valentia and the resulting job losses. Read more

Death threat to a catholic family living in Stoneyford – Butler

Sinn Féin Lagan Valley MLA Paul Butler has said that the threat to a catholic family living in Stoneyford from loyalists is ‘the latest in a series of attacks on this family’. Read more

Gildernew launches Sea Fishing safety initiative

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has launched a new initiative which uses satellite and mapping technology to save the lives of fishermen who fall overboard. Read more

Education has a role in raising awareness about homelessness

Sinn Fein Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has launched a new schools information pack on homelessness. Read more

Recent TASER death provides further evidence of lethal danger

Sinn Féin Policing Board member Martina Anderson has said that the recent death of a man in Canada from the use of TASERs provides further evidence of the lethal nature of these weapons. Read more

Minister announces Equality exercise on Government plans

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, is encouraging rural dwellers to have their say in the government’s plans for spending, investing and delivering Programme for Government. Read more

Hard headed MoD looking their pound of flesh

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty, speaking following a meeting with British Secretary of Defence Des Browne in London today, says it is clear that the MoD are attempting to sell Lisanelly and St Lucia in Omagh and all other vacated military sites across the six counties at full… Read more

Morgan - Disappointing Budget will make little impact

Sinn Féin spokesperson on the economy and public finance Arthur Morgan TD said "For months now the Minister has tried to reduce expectations in relation to the Budget. Even with expectations set so low this was a budget that promised little and delivered little." Read more

Budget a bitter disappointment on healthcare and medical cards

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health and Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said the Budget does nothing to address the crisis in healthcare and reneges on the commitment to extend medical card eligibility. Read more

Sinn Féin Response to Budget 2008

Full address by Sinn Féin Economy and Public Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD Read more

New Entrants Scheme Extended

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has announced an extension to the closing date of the New Entrants Scheme to February 2009. Read more

Spirit of McCreevy lives on in Budget 2008 – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said today that the €64 million allocated in Budget 2008 to the Drugs Initiative and Young Persons Facilities and Services Fund in comparison to the €76 million allocated to the Horse and Greyhound Industry starkly example government spending priorities. Read more

Budget 2008 missed opportunity - Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad today on Budget 2008 Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty described government spending priorities as a disappointment and wasted opportunity. Read more

Young people key to identifying solutions in our communities – Anderson

Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has said that young people need to be part of the process in coming up with solutions to address the effects of poverty and other problems in communities across Derry. Read more

Proposed Amendment to Race Relations Order 1997

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA and the First Minister announced today that they intend to make an amendment to the Race Relations Order 1997. Read more

Academic Selection gone – time to move on

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson, Lagan Valley MLA Paul Butler has said that now that the Education Minister has cleared the decks and ended all uncertainty by saying that there will be no more academic selection and next year will be the last 11+ that it is time for unionists in… Read more

Anderson welcomes Ilex plans

Sinn Féin’s Martina Anderson MLA (Foyle) has welcomed the publication of the proposed plans for the Fort George site in Derry city. Read more

Irish Language celebration for Stormont on Friday

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA will host 'A Celebration of the Irish Language' in the Great Hall in Stormont, Friday 7 December @ 7pm. Read more

Mac Ádhmaidh ag óstáil Ceiliúradh na Gaeilge i Stormont

Beidh Uachtarán Shinn Fein Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh MP MLA ag óstáil Cheiliúradh na Gaeilge i Mór-Halla Stormont ar an Áoine 7 Nollaig @ 7in. Read more

More Empty Homes in Derry than Homeless

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has said that it is unacceptable that there are more empty houses lying vacant in Derry than there people are on the homeless list. Read more

As expected Budget contains hidden cuts and changes – Ó Caoláin

Speaking during this afternoon’s Dáil debate on Budget 2008 Sinn Féin TD and Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: “This Budget will be a bitter disappointment to those who were promised by this Government that more families would be entitled to the medical card. In the Programme for Government they… Read more

Community groups should formulate proposals for £500m Rural Development Programme

Sinn Féin West Tyrone Cllr Barry McElduff MLA has called on local community groups to formulate proposals to shape the rural develop programme. The funding programme, administered by DARD amounts to over £500 million and aims to strengthen social and economic infrastructure of rural areas and conserving and investing in… Read more

Are Sperrins being short changed in terms of tourism investment? - McGill

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Claire McGill is pressing the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) funding to projects in the Sperrins over the last five years because the local community across the region believe they are being short changed in terms of… Read more

Logue welcomes transfer of Crumlin PSNI site

Sinn Féin Councillor Annemarie Logue has welcomed the decision by the Policing Board to agree the transfer of the Crumlin PSNI site to community group, 'Crumlin Together' for local development. Read more

US Department of Commerce to be invited on Business Mission

America’s Department of Commerce will be invited later today to partner the Executive in building a new and vibrant economy in the North. Read more

Sinn Féin to hold major conference in Dublin this weekend

Sinn Féin will hold a major conference ‘Engaging Modern Ireland’ this Sunday December 9th in Griffith College Dublin. Read more

Minister supports Get Home Safe campaign

Sinn Féin Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA met young people from the Clones Erne East Shadow Youth Partnership at the launch of their Get Home Safe campaign. Read more

Reilly welcomes €11m investment in Navan Town Park‏

Sinn Fein Cllr Joe Reilly has welcomed the proposals under the Meath Co. Councils Capital Programme 2008 - 2010 to invest €11m in the development of Navan Public Park. Read more

Sinn Féin open up debate on Commissioner for the Disabled

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has called for the creation of a new Commissioner with responsibility for ensuring the rights of disabled people are protected and promoted. Read more

Committee ‘Prayer of Annulment’ motion to block increase in Student Fees

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, will move a ‘Prayer of Annulment’ motion to block an increase in Student Fees proposed by Reg Empey on Monday, December 10th. Read more

Gildernew announces extension to Fruit and Vegetable consultation

Sinn Féin Farm Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has announced an extension to the closing date of the CAP Reform consultation on fruit and vegetable production. Read more

Republicans prepare for ground-breaking meeting in Dublin this weekend

Sinn Féin Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald has described this weekend's party conference as a ground breaking meeting which will set out the party's future direction and political priorities. Among the key issues being discussed at the conference will be building the economy and community safety and policing. Read more

Youth Wings Unite to Urge Road Safety

A Road Safety Vigil will be held at the GPO, Dublin, on Saturday 15th December at 1pm, Ógra Shinn Féin, Labour Youth and the Young Greens announced today. Read more

Sinn Fein Cllr Joe Reilly has welcomed €15.9m investment programme as a major opportunity for Navan

Sinn Fein Cllr Joe Reilly has welcomed €15.9m investment programme as a major opportunity for Navan. Read more

Sinn Féin call for state car insurance scheme - Senator Doherty

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty has called on government to introduce a state car insurance scheme that does not discriminate drivers on age or gender, instead basing insurance premiums on a person's driving record and the cover required. Read more

Farmers Market set ups must be properly funded and supported by government - Doherty

Speaking during a Seanad debate yesterday Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty said planning law should include the need for farmers' markets in new retail developments. Read more

Education Department decision to boycott discussion on Gaelscoileanna badly judged - Doherty

Speaking yesterday during the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Science Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty described the Education Departments decision to boycott the committee meeting as a missed opportunity to engage in a constructive dialogue. Read more

Adams hosts Irish language celebration event in Stormont-

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA tonight hosted, 'Ceiliúradh na Gaeilge' - 'A Celebration of the Irish Language' in the Great Hall in Stormont. Read more

Ceiliúradh na Gaeilge iontach i gCnoc an Anfa

Bhí Uachtarán Shinn Fein Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh MP MLA ag óstáil Ceiliúradh na Gaeilge i Mór-Halla Stormont anocht Bhí ionadaithe ó chomhlachtaí agus eagraíochtaí Gaeilge as achan chearn den tír i láthair. Bhí an méid seo a leanas le rá ag Mac Ádhaimh fá dtaobh den imeacht: Dúirt sé, Read more

Pearse Doherty opens major Sinn Féin conference in Dublin

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty speaking at the opening of the party Engaging Modern Ireland conference which is taking place in Dublin said: "This weekend Fianna Fáil announced that they have registered as a party in the Six Counties. It will take far more than a bit of paper from… Read more

Building a prosperous and equal economy is at the core of Sinn Féin's vision for Ireland

Speaking today at Sinn Féin's major conference 'Engaging Modern Ireland' Sinn Féin TD and party Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan said building a prosperous and equal economy is at the core of Sinn Féin's vision for Ireland. It is a core part of what we are working for. Read more

Warm Homes Scheme waiting list expected to reach over 8,000 by March

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady, who recently met with representatives from the Warm Home Schemes at Stormont, has expressed serious concerns at the news that the Warm Homes Scheme waiting list is expected to reach over 8,000 by March 2008. Read more

PSNI Performance Targets too low

Sinn Féin Policing Board member Alex Maskey has said that the PSNI must set its targets for clearing up crime much higher. Read more

Assembly to be told of Inter-connector concerns

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan speaking before an Assembly debate about the proposed North/South Electricity Inter-connector route has said that there must be a realisation amongst all concerned that it is imperative that the well being of people and communities “not just at a physical but also… Read more

Ramsey to propose block on Student Fee increase

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, will move a 'Prayer of Annulment' motion to block an increase in Student Fees proposed by Reg Empey on Monday, December 10th. Read more

de Brún - Climate Change is apriority of the highest class for Sinn Féin in Europe and at home

Sinn Féin MEP for the six counties Bairbre de Brún and a member of the European's Parliment's Climate Change Committee speaking at a party conference in Dublin said: "Climate Change the major political challenge of our time." Read more

Sinn Féin Assembly debate - Delivering Choice for the Terminally Ill

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Carál Ní Chuilín is calling on the Minister of Health Michael McGimpsey set up a pilot programme to ensure that cancer patients and their carers get the support they need throughout the palliative care period. Read more

Aengus Ó Snodaigh - Community Safety and Policing

Speaking at Sinn Fein's major conference 'Engaging Modern Ireland' Sinn Fein TD and Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus O Snodaigh said policing and community safety remain hugely important issues for Sinn Fein. Read more

Mary Lou McDonald - New Irish New Communities

"Speaking at Sinn Féin's major conference 'Engaging Modern Ireland' Dublin Sinn Féin MEP and party National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald said "arguably the issues we are dealing with in this session entitled 'New Irish New Communities' are the most challenging of all in engaging modern Ireland. Read more

Engaging Modern Ireland - Gerry Adam's Keynote Address

Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams MP MLA addressing the party's 'Engaging Modern Ireland' conference. Read more

Tackling the Crisis in Healthcare Provision

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin speaking today at Sinn Féin's major conference 'Engaging Modern Ireland' said a government which sponsors the hospital co-location two-tier scheme can never be relied upon to deal with the underlying inequalities which contribute significantly to ill-health in our society. Read more

Martin Ferris TD - Gardaí need full backing in fight against crime

Sinn Féin TD for Kerry North, Martin Ferris, speaking at a special party conference in Dublin today [Sunday], raised the growing problem of crime and drug abuse in small towns across Ireland and called for "full community support for the Gardaí and full government support for communities". Read more

Doolan - Bring the solutions down to the most local level

Sinn Féin Councillor Daithi Doolan speaking during the Environment debate at the party's conference 'Engaging Modern Ireland' said: "We need to climate proof our City & County Development Plans and combat urban sprawl." Read more

Kenny - Supporting Small to Medium Enterprises is the way forward

Cllr Martin Kenny Leitrim speaking during the economy section of the party's conference said "Small to Medium Enterprises are now said by mainstream economists to be the best way to produce new jobs. And certainly the best way forward for the regions, as the corporations has done little for west… Read more

Gildernew meets Coughlan ahead of December Fisheries Council

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has met with Mary Coughlan TD, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries in Dublin to discuss their priorities for this year’s December Fisheries Council. Read more

Ulster Unionists need to be given red card for foul play - Maskey MLA

Commenting before a scheduled Ulster Unionist motion tomorrow on the recent eligibility proposal outlined by FIFA regarding young Irish soccer players Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA and Assembly Culture Committee member, Paul Maskey has said that not only should sport be a non-contraversial issue but also it should be promoted… Read more

Attempts to airbrush collusion from Miami Massacre unacceptable - Brady

Sinn Féin Newry/Armagh MLA, Mickey Brady has said that attempts to airbrush collusion out of the murders of the Miami Showband Members, Tony Geraghty, Fran O’Toole and Brian McCoy is unacceptable. Read more

Derry World Record Breakers

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has congratulated everyone involved in the 10,001 Santa World record attempt which took place in Derry on Sunday. Read more

Lives will be put at risk by Fire Service cuts‏

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has expressed his concern at the effect that the draft Health budget will have on the Fire and Rescue Service across the north. Read more

Domestic Violence Postcard campaign

Sinn Féin MLA’s will launch a Postcard campaign highlighting the issue of Domestic Violence tomorrow, Tuesday 11th December at 12.30pm on the steps of Stormont. Read more

Minister announces Equality consultation on Education plans

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has encouraged people interested in education to give their views on the draft Budget proposals for the department. Read more

Paisley must disclose full extent of relationship with Property developer

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that Junior Minister Ian Paisley Junior must disclose the full extent of his relationship with property developer Seymour Sweeney. Mr McKay who was the first to raise the matter of the North Antrim businessman’s connections with the DUP in the Assembly… Read more

Diversity Resource – a 1st for Primary Schools, North and South

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane MLA and Minister for Integration in 26 Counties, Conor Lenihan TD have jointly launched a Toolkit for Diversity in the Primary School. Read more

Sinn Féin MLAs attend Arts funding protest at Stormont

Sinn Féin MLA and Culture Committee member Francie Brolly has attended a "Keep Our Arts Alive Rally" from those working in the Arts sector demanding that the Culture Minister focus on his spending for the Arts. Read more

UUP u-turn on Student Fees

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey has said that the UUP decision to vote against a Employment and Learning Committee ‘Prayer of Annulment’ motion to block an increase in Student Fees proposed by Reg Empey represents a u-turn. Read more

McKay says higher targets needed to reduce CO2 emissions‏

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA and Environment Spokesperson, Daithí McKay has welcomed the Environment Ministers commitment to ensure that CO2 emissions are reduced in the North. Read more

Attempts to undermine Agreement will be blocked

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Paul Maskey has said that unionists need to recognise that any attempt to undermine the Good Friday Agreement will be blocked. Read more

Kelly welcomes Barroso Taskforce to Belfast

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA and his DUP counterpart Ian Paisley jnr have welcomed the European Commission’s Taskforce fact-finding mission to Belfast today. Read more

Prison at Magilligan would damage massive tourism potential

Sinn Féin East Derry MLA has said that any decision to build a new Prison at Magilligan would have a hugely detrimental impact on the potential to develop tourism in the area. Read more

Health Minister's Budget for North Antrim a 'disaster'

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has slammed the Health Minister Michael McGimpsey for not committing any capital investment for a Health Care Centre in Ballymena. Mr McKay said that this, coupled with Fire Service cutbacks in North Antrim, would have disastrous consequences for the area. Read more

Joint Sinn Féin – UUP anti-drugs initiative

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann has announced detail of a joint seminar on drugs hosted by Ulster Unionist North Belfast MLA Fred Cobain and herself tomorrow, Wednesday 12th December from 11am – 12.30pm in room 375 at Stormont. Read more

Adams to Meet Ó Cuiv on Irish Language Act

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA will lead a party delegation, including Aengus O Snodaig TD and Francie Brolly MLA to meet with the Gaeltacht Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv in Dublin on Thursday morning December 13th. Read more

Doherty writes to encourage take up of £500 Rural Development Programme

Sinn Fein MP Pat Doherty has written to rural community groups throughout West Tyrone encouraging them to avail of the funding opportunities from DARD now existing through the Department’s £500 million Rural Development Programme. Read more

Victims of Domestic Violence encouraged to seek help

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann speaking after the launch of the party’s Domestic Violence Postcard Campaign on the steps of Stormont today has encouraged anyone who is a victim of domestic violence to speak out and seek help. Read more

Drug-related deaths, it's time to get priorities in order - Ó Snodaigh

Responding to reports of the death of a young man in Bray Co. Wicklow may be drug related Sinn Féin TD and Community Safety Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh the spate recent drug deaths has today demanded that government to re-allocate money from the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund into the… Read more

Sinn Féin call on public to support Save St. Lukes Campaign - McDonald

Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has today sent her solidarity to the Save St. Luke's Campaign who are handing in a petition to Leinster House calling on the Health Minister to keep the hospital open and to upgrade and expand the hospital and its services. Read more

Vulnerable Children in Kerry wait up to 18 months to see Psychologists - Ferris

Vulnerable children in Kerry are waiting anything up to 18 months to be seen by a Clinical Psychologist. North Kerry Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris raised the issue with the Minister for Health last week. Responding to Deputy Ferris’ Dáil question Local Health Manager in Kerry Mr. Tom Leonard stated… Read more

Death of 55 homeless people demonstrates that Government is continuing to fail the most vulnerable - Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin housing spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh, speaking following the revelation by the Simon Community that at least 55 homeless people had died in 2006, said that these needless deaths demonstrated in stark terms the impact of the failure of the Government to eliminate homelessness and to address the housing… Read more

Second major loss of personal data demands new transfer procedures

Sinn Féin Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called for new procedures to protect peoples’ personal information when transferring data between government Agencies and Departments following the loss of the personal details of 6,000 people by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. Read more

All Party Road Safety Assembly Group launched today in Stormont

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan, who is the Vice Chairperson of the new All Party Road Safety Assembly Group launched today in Stormont, has welcomed the attendance of the Environment Minister Arlene Foster and Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy. Read more

Electricity Inter-connector concern must be properly addressed

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan, Deputy Chairperson of the Assembly Environment Committee, has said that community health and environmental concern about the proposed North South Electricity Inter-connector need to be properly addressed. Read more

Morgan raises concerns about budget welfare blind spots

Sinn Féin TD and spokesperson Social and Family Affairs Arthur Morgan today raised concerns about the number of welfare areas ignored in last week’s budget, after a meeting of the Social and Family Affairs Committee which he attended. Read more

Ó Snodaigh - Gardaí need to be allowed to inspect US military flights

Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has backed calls from the Irish Human Rights Commission for Garda inspections of US military flights going through Shannon airport. He also repeated his call for the government to stop allowing the US military to use airports and airspace on their way… Read more

Devolution of Policing and Justice

Sinn Féin Policing and Justice Spokesperson, Alex Maskey MLA has said that the British government’s commitment to the devolution of Policing and Justice Powers by May 2008 was central to the decision of republicans and nationalists to engage with the policing structures earlier this year. Read more

Sinn Féin leads call for European action to end homelessness

Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald today launched a major European initiative to end homelessness in all EU member states by 2015. Ms McDonald will be joined by colleagues from France, Britain, Poland and FEANTSA. Read more

NIE could bear costs of putting North South Electricity Inter-connector underground

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Micky Brady has said that while the North South Electricity Inter-connector will bring undoubted benefits to people right across the island but that the concerns are being voiced all along the proposed route. Read more

Cabinet decision to defer Minister pay hikes too little too late - Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has described this afternoon's decision by the cabinet to defer the first part of the pay rise for government ministers by a year as too little, too late. Read more

Major West Belfast Land-use Forum held at Stormont

West Belfast MP Gerry Adams today hosted a major Land-Use Forum at Stormont to discuss the strategic development of the huge piece of west Belfast land bordered by the Glen Road, Hannahstown Hill, the Upper Springfield Road and the Monagh by-pass. Read more

Gildernew announces new £21.5 million Grant Scheme

Sinn Féin Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has announced that the new Agricultural and Forestry Processing and Marketing Grant (PMG) Scheme is now open for applications. Read more

Ferris Raises Scandal of Illegal Fishing

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries, Martin Ferris TD, raised the issue of illegal fishing by non Irish fleets in Irish waters in the Dáil this morning. The Kerry North TD referred to the fact that while a massive amount of fish was being taken from Irish waters that little… Read more

Huge concern at failures of New Deal

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, has expressed concern at the failures of the New Deal scheme to support people into employment. Read more

Allocation to Social Welfare Department fails children, working poor and pensioners – Morgan

Sinn Féin Social and Family Affairs Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD, speaking during a debate on the Social Welfare Bill 2007 in the Dáil today, said the allocation to the Department of Social and Family Affairs has been distributed with little or no imagination, with no foresight and with no tangible… Read more

Informative UUP-Sinn Féin conference on drugs

Sinn Fein MLA Jennifer McCann has described as 'informative' today's jointly sponsored Ulster Unionist Party-Sinn Fein conference on the availability of drugs in working class communities across Belfast. Read more

Maskey expresses serious concern over South Belfast arson attack

Sinn Féin South Belfast MLA and Policing Board member Alex Maskey has expressed serious concern over a potentially lethal arson attack in Ballynafeigh in South Belfast. Read more

Lisbon Treaty is not in Ireland's interests - McDonald

Speaking ahead of tomorrow's signing of the Lisbon Treaty by EU Heads of State Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald said "whilst the need for Ireland to have its place at the EU table is obvious, we must use that place positively. Our international reputation is not so fragile… Read more

Defer flawed childcare scheme - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health & Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called on the Government to defer the introduction of the flawed Community Childcare Subvention Scheme as demanded by childcare providers throughout the State under the umbrella of the Irish Childcare Policy Network. Read more

Lack of broadband hampering small enterprises in Donegal – Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad this afternoon Donegal Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty said he personally knows of three people who have wanted to set up small enterprises in Donegal but have been hampered because of the unavailability broadband access. Senator Doherty said there is a digital divide between Dublin and… Read more

Greater co-operation between PSNI and Gardaí needed to tackle serious crime – Sinn Féin

Sinn Fein’s national policing spokesperson’s Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD and Alex Maskey MLA today met in Leinster House to discuss how greater co-operation between the PSNI and Garda Síochána can be progressed in the interests of targeting serious crime in particular drug-related gangland crime and predatory sex offenders. Read more

Gildernew meets representatives from the Mushroom Industry

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Gildernew MP MLA, met with representatives from the mushroom industry during a visit to a Dungannon mushroom supplier. Read more

Lisbon Treaty is not in Ireland's interests

Speaking ahead of today's signing of the Lisbon Treaty by EU Heads of State Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald said "whilst the need for Ireland to have its place at the EU table is obvious, we must use that place positively. Our international reputation is not so fragile… Read more

Cruinniú ag Adams le Ó Cuív faoi Acht Gaeilge

Buailfidh Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh agus toscaireacht ó Shinn Féin, Francie Brolly MLA agus Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD san áireamh, le hAire na Gaeltachta, Éamon Ó Cuív inniu @10rn Déardaoin, 13 Nollaig. Read more

Dublin drugs seizure welcomed

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has congratulated Gardaí on the seizure of €500,000 of cocaine in Dublin this morning. Read more

Ruane meets Scottish Education Minister

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has met with her Scottish counterpart, Fiona Hyslop MSP, to discuss a range of educational issues. Read more

We must give Young People a greater say in decision making

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay, who is the one of the youngest Assembly members, has said that we need to do much more to involve young people in decision making. He is calling for the voting age to be lowered to 16 and for the establishment of a… Read more

Erne Hospital cleanliness concerns must be fully addressed

Sinn Féin MP MLA for Fermanagh South Tyrone Michelle Gildernew has expressed her concerns over the comments made by the Health Watchdog on the cleanliness of the Erne Hospital in Fermanagh. Read more

Retention of Cancer Screening Services‏

Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed the decision by Health Minister Michael McGimpsey to retain cancer screening services at Altnagelvin Hospital. Read more

Sinn Féin retain seat on Moyle Council‏

Sinn Féin have retained their seat on Moyle Council after candidate Paudie McShane was elected. Mr McShane was elected following the by-election in the Glens area which saw Sinn Féin take 50% of the vote. Read more

Aer Lingus decision 'political correctness gone mad'

Responding to the news that Aer Lingus shall not be using its usual Irish Language greeting on board Belfast flights, Sinn Féin Irish language spokesperson in the Assembly Francie Brolly has said that this is political correctness gone mad. Read more

Gerry Adams to Meet Minister Ó Cuiv on Irish Language Act

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA will lead a party delegation, including Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD and Francie Brolly MLA to meet with the Gaeltacht Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv in Dublin today. Read more

Grandstanding will not derail Long Kesh/Maze development

Sinn Féin Lagan Valley MLA Paul Butler has said that individual unionist grandstanding at the Assembly Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee will not derail the Long Kesh/Maze development. Read more

More Social Housing Needed‏ - Relax Housing Executive restrictions

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has called on Social Development Minister Margaret Richie to relax the restrictions on the Housing Executive so that it can start to build new social housing. Read more

Sinn Féin President calls of voters to oppose Lisbon Treaty

Speaking in Dublin this afternoon Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MLA has called on everyone on this island who will have a vote to come out and oppose the Lisbon Treaty. Read more

Pipe Bomb at Ballela Gaelic Club will not stop GAA from organising in the area

Sinn Féin Representative for Banbridge and District, Cllr. Dessie Ward, has condemned those behind a viable pipe bomb left at the gates of Ballela Gaelic Football Club outside Banbridge and has said that it won’t stop the GAA from organising in the area. Read more

Broad support for Autism Act

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has speaking after the recent information night held by the South Down Branch of PAPA at Ballybot House there is now widespread support for legislation to protect and promote the rights of people with autism. Read more

Ruane opens new Autism unit for Children in Coalisland

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, was in Coalisland to open a purpose-built support unit for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Read more

Sinn Féin will oppose legislation that facilitates co-location - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health and Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that his party will oppose legislation that facilitates the Government plan to 'co-locate' private for-profit hospitals on public hospital sites. Read more

Morgan leads Sinn Féin fact finding delegation to Cobh and Youghal

Sinn Féin TD and Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan will tomorrow lead a party delegation on an enterprise and employment fact finding exercise to Cobh and Youghal for a series of meeting with business representatives, trade unionists and the local community. Read more

Policing Federation should never have disengaged with the Police Ombudsman

Sinn Féin Policing Spokesperson, South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey commenting on reports that the Policing Federation will re-engage with the Police Ombudsman has said that it should never have disengaged in the first place. Read more

Gildernew meets EU Fisheries Commissioner

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has met with EU Fisheries Commissioner Joe Borg in Brussels, ahead of next week’s EU Fisheries Council. Read more

Ritchie could end nightmare of Tax Credit repayments

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has today called for a moratorium on tax credit repayments for low-income families. Read more

Sinn Féin to ask for Ombudsman to investigate latest intimidation in Stoneyford

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Butler has said he is to ask the Police Ombudsman to investigate sectarian attacks on Catholics in Stoneyford and the PSNI’s failure to arrest or charge anyone. Read more

Government can and should Save St Luke's Hospital - McDonald

Speaking at this St. Luke's Hospital Campaign demonstration Dublin Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald said that "it is totally unacceptable that government continues to pull the rug from under cancer patients and their families." Read more

Health warning should be attached to legislation rushed through by government

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health and Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has this weekend questioned Minister Harney's efforts to rush through the Health Bill during the Dáil and Seanad's final sitting next week. Read more

Indigenous business in East Cork must be developed - Morgan

Following an employment and enterprise fact finding mission to Cobh and Youghal Sinn Féin TD and Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan this weekend called on government to get behind the development of indigenous business in East Cork. Read more

Ferris welcomes new regional routes but warns against government complacency

Sinn Féin TD and Spokesperson on Rural Development Martin Ferris has this weekend welcomed the new services to France and Britain which are to operate out of Shannon and Knock Airports but has warned against government complacency following the news. Read more

Competition Authority heavy handed tactics unhelpful - Ó Snodaigh

Responding to the news this weekend that the Competition Authority raided the offices of the Irish Pharmaceutical Union IPU during the week Dublin Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has described the action of the Authority as heavy handed and unhelpful to the ongoing negotiations between the HSE and IPU. Read more

Sinn Féin Condemn Attack on Portadown Orange Hall - John O'Dowd MLA

Upper Bann Sinn Féin Assembly member John O'Dowd has expressed condemnation after an alleged attack on Ballyworkan Orange hall on the Tandragee Road in Portadown. Read more

Did PSNI have pre-knowledge about impending Strabane attack?

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty says that those who carried out the pipe bomb attack on Strabane PSNI station last night have absolutely nothing to offer the community but has also questioned the extent of pre-knowledge the PSNI had about an impending attack in the town last night. Read more

Sinn Féin MEP comments on Bali Climate Conference

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has welcomed the fact that a framework has been set out at the Bali climate Conference in which to reach agreement on a future regime to combat climate change post 2012, but has expressed disappointment that more concrete targets were not agreed at this… Read more

FIFA ruling - guaranteeing rights

Paul Butler has welcomed the clarification provided to the FAI guaranteeing a continuation of the right of northern born Irish citizens to represent the Republic of Ireland at international soccer level. Read more

Combating Drugs Need to be a priority for PSNI‏

Sinn Féin Councillor Maeve McLaughlin has that Sinn Féin demanded for the inclusion of drugs as a priority issue in the forthcoming Policing Plan for the Derry City Council area. Read more

New prison at Magilligan would be detrimental to tourism

Sinn Féin East Derry MLA has said that any decision to build a new Prison at Magilligan would have a hugely detrimental impact on the potential to develop tourism in the area. Read more

Sinn Féin President condemns arson attacks on Orange Halls

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has condemned the recent arson attacks on Orange Halls and has called for them to end now. Read more

Abandon plans to charge schools for water – Doherty

The Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty, has called on Environment Minister John Gormley to abandon his plans to charge schools for water usage. The Donegal Senator said many school’s budgets are already under severe strain and should not have to sustain these unfair costs. Read more

Deportation of East Belfast residents wrong

Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has expressed grave concern over the imminent deportation of East Belfast residents Aderonke Falode and Comfort Adefowoju and their families to Nigeria. Read more

Think of the Elderly this Christmas and New Year

Sinn Féin Human Rights spokesperson, Foyle MLA Martina Anderson, has encouraged people to think of their elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas and New Year. Read more

Social Housing plans for South Down ‘totally inadequate’

Sinn Féin South Down MLA Willie Clarke has said that the 5 year Social Housing Development Programme for South Down is totally inadequate. Mr Clarke questioned Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie over social housing in Warrenpoint, Rostrevor, Kilkeel, Rathfriland, Mayobridge, Hilltown, and Annaclone. Read more

Varney - Economic and social progress can only be delivered in an all-Ireland context

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has said that the Varney Report falls far short of what is required. Read more

Ferris welcomes Coughlan U turn on Brazilian Beef

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture, Martin Ferris TD, has welcomed what he described as a “u turn” by Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan on the issue of the importation of Brazilian beef into the EU. Last night the Minister said that she had requested Health Commissioner Kyprianou to impose restrictions… Read more

Closure of ward at Portiuncula Hospital direct result of Harney’s health cuts

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said the forced closure of a ward at Portiuncula Hospital in Galway due to the HSE recruitment freeze is yet another indictment of Health Minister Mary Harney. Read more

McDonald tells EU leaders - values of Europe best protected by rejecting Lisbon Treaty

Speaking in the European Parliament this afternoon Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary McDonald told fellow parliamentarians that she has one simple message to EU leaders "if you are keen to be involved in a referendum campaign, organise one in your own country and leave us to get on with ours." Read more

MEPs discuss de Brún's report on PEACE Programme

MEPs from across Europe today discuss Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún's report on Ireland's PEACE Programme. Ms de Brún's report sets out the parliament's evaluation of the EU funded programme for Peace and Reconciliation to date as well as mapping out future strategies. Read more

SF anger at Magilligan prison announcement

Sinn Féin East Derry MLA Francie Brolly has reacted angrily at the decision to build a new prison at Magilligan; an "area of outstanding beauty." Read more

SF comment on Equality Commission report on six county workforce

Sinn Fein spokesperson on Equality/Human Rights, Foyle MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed the Equality Commission's 17th Monitoring Report of the North's workforce stating that: Read more

Mc Cartney proposes common sense approach toeards fixed penalty notices

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney is lobbying for a 15 minute flexibility period to be introduced for motorists issued with ‘Fixed Penalty Notices’ when the operation of the NCP Services Ltd contract is reviewed in early 2008. Read more

Doherty welcomes visit by Education Minister to Strabane

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty says tomorrow’s day long visit by Education Minister Caitríona Ruane to schools in Strabane District provides an excellent opportunity for stakeholders in the local education sector to directly relate their views on the education debate and express their needs for the years ahead. Read more

Doherty expresses dismay at inaction over sudden cardiac death in the young

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has expressed dismay that the specialist team announced by Minister Michael Mc Gimpsey in September to examine the issue of sudden cardiac death in the young has still not met 3 months on. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome news of Older Peoples Commissioner appointment

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Older People, Newry Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has welcomed the announcement of a Commissioner for Older People appointment and has said that this post shall create a mechanism to bring the rights of Older People into the heart of Executive decision making. Read more

Tús maith leath na hoibre!! -O' Donnghaile

Sinn Féin's East Belfast Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has stated he believes future developments created within Belfast should be inclusive from the outset and should show respect to the heritage of the areas in which they are to be built. Read more

Hanafin must oppose school water charges – Doherty

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty, speaking at a meeting of the Oireachtas Education Committee today, has called on Minister Mary Hanafin to oppose attempts by Environment Minister John Gormley to impose water charges on schools. Read more

ECJ ruling will advance race to the bottom - McDonald

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has described today's decision by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) as disappointing but not surprising. Read more

Contentious co-location sections must be removed from Health Bill - Ó Caoláin

Speaking tonight in the Dáil on the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2007 Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin stated Sinn Féin cannot support the Bill as it stands unless the Government removes the sections it has inserted which are designed to facilitate its contentious hospital co-location plans. Read more

McDonald welcomes ECJ judgment on Dublin Fire Brigade

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has welcomed the European Court of Justice decision to reject the efforts of a private ambulance operator to force Dublin city's emergency ambulance services to be out to private tender. Read more

Agriculture Minister attends EU Fisheries council negotiations

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA is today in Brussels attending the Fisheries Council annual marathon negotiations for fishing quotas throughout Europe. Read more

McGuinness announces intention to create an Older People’s Commissioner

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and First Minister Ian Paisley and have announced their intention to create a Northern Ireland Commissioner for Older People. Read more

Coleraine votes against power-sharing in new councils after RPA shake up

Coleraine council have voted against a motion to have laws ensuring equality and power-sharing in the new Councils which will come into being under the Review of Public Administration. Read more

Doherty wants 15 minute flexibility period for motorists issued with Fixed Penalty Notices

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty is lobbying for a 15 minute flexibility period to be introduced for motorists issued with ‘Fixed Penalty Notices’ when the operation of the NCP Services Ltd contract is reviewed in early 2008. Read more

Housing is a Right – Not a political football

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has that said Sinn Féin believe that Housing is a right and that the provision of affordable social housing should be a key to that right. Read more

Concern at reports that banks are placing additional pressures on debtors in difficulty

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has expressed his extreme concern at reports that Banks are pressuring customers that have had financial difficulties to take out expensive loans in order to ease their debts. Read more

St. Mary's Park inclusion in City regeneration welcomed

Sinn Féin's Maurice Quinlivan has welcomed the government's announcement that the regeneration of Limerick City is to be expanded to include the St. Mary's Park area. Read more

MLA Appeals on Behalf Of Blue Badge Holders‏

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has appealed to people to make sure they leave Blue Badge Parking spaces free. A number of disabled people and their carers have contacted Mickey Brady about the selfish disregard shown by non-disabled whilst using local car parks and shopping centres in Newry. Read more

McDonald welcomes ECJ judgment on Dublin Fire Brigade

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has welcomed the European Court of Justice decision to reject the efforts of a private ambulance operator to force Dublin city's emergency ambulance services out to private tender. Read more

Gildernew delivers fishing industry Priorities

Sinn Féin Fisheries Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has achieved, in the annual Brussels fisheries negotiation, the key priorities agreed with the fishing industry. Read more

Lack of housing detrimentally affecting thousands this Christmas – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD called on the Government to make required funding available to ensure that everyone has access to appropriate housing as is their right. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said a lack of housing and inappropriate and poor housing will detrimentally… Read more

Tax Credit debt can be scrapped by Ritchie‏

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has today called for Social Development Minister Margaret Richie to give single parents a Christmas present by wiping out any debt accumulated by the discredited Tax Credit system. Read more

Sinn Féin to meet Ombudsman over Stoneyford concerns

Sinn Féin Lagan Valley MLA Paul Butler will lead a party delegation to meet with the Police Ombudsman, Al Hutchinson, tomorrow, Thursday 20th December to discuss concerns about the failure of the PSNI operation in Stoneyford to protect nationalists from Loyalist attack and intimidation. Read more

Sinn Féin MEP comments on EU Fisheries Summit

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has described the deal secured by Michelle Gildernew at the Fisheries Summit in Brussels as the best that could be achieved in the circumstances. Read more

Belfast residents must be allowed home

Sinn Féin Assembly Group Leader MLA John O'Dowd has expressed grave concern over the imminent deportation of East Belfast residents Aderonke Falode and Comfort Adefowoju and their families to Nigeria. Read more

Lisbon Treaty not in Irelands interests – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking during a Dáil debate on the Lisbon Treaty today Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh told Minster Ahern that “The Lisbon Treaty is not in Ireland’s interests. It involves a massive transfer of power to the EU. It significantly accelerates the militarization of the EU, and advances an economic… Read more

de Brún lambasts European Commission

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has called on the European Commission to explain why they have been unable to come forward today with the planned announcement on cross-border healthcare. Read more

Spending on anti-drugs initiatives must match priority required – Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad today Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty called on the Government to introduce a Supplementary Estimate to ensure that spending on anti-drugs initiatives matches the priority and urgency required. Read more

Government changes to childcare an admission of failure – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health & Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that the changes to the Communuity Childcare Subvention Scheme announced by Minister for Children Brendan Smith TD are an admission that the scheme as originally framed would fail and has had to be changed significantly. Read more

Anger at attack on Fermanagh GAA club

Sinn Féin Fermanagh South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew has condemned the attack on the St Mary’s GAC club in Maguiresbridge, County Fermanagh. Read more

Shock at Tragic North Belfast death

Sinn Féin North Belfast councillor Tierna Cunningham has said that local people are shocked at the tragic death of a local man following a bar room fight last night in North Belfast. Read more

Gildernew consults on CAP Health Check

Sinn Fein Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has today announced consultation arrangements on the preliminary Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Health Check proposals. Read more

Electronic Identification of Sheep and Goats – date agreed

The EU Council of Ministers has agreed 31 December 2009 as the obligatory implementation date for the introduction of electronic identification (EID) of sheep and goats. Read more

Ógra Shinn Féin launch Ireland National Road Safety Film

Ógra Shinn Féin have produced a short film following the weekend's road safety vigil in Dublin. The road safety film includes shocking statistics on the number of deaths so far this year on Irish roads and includes interviews from activists representing Ógra Shinn Féin, Labour Youth and Young Greens. Read more

Sinn Féin MEP comments on new tighter restrictions on Brazilian Beef

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has welcomed the new tighter restrictions the European Commission is to impose on Brazilian beef but has said it does not go far enough. Read more

Morgan slams FÁS attack on minimum wage

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has criticised a call by FÁS to re-look at the minimum wage with a view to reducing it to enhance competitiveness saying the comments would cause huge concern to those earning the minimum wage. Deputy Morgan said Ireland’s competitiveness could not be… Read more

Police Ombudsman given detailed account of sectarian attacks in Stonetford

Sinn Féin MLA for Lagan Valley Paul Butler has given the Police Ombudsman Al Hutchinson a detailed account of the loyalist campaign of intimidation against the Catholic people of Stonyeford stretching back fifteen years. Read more

Gildernew welcomes EU scrutiny of Brazilian Beef

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew, MP, MLA has welcomed the latest EU report on the Brazilian beef industry. Read more

Sinn Féin back Omagh Inquiry after damming judgement of police failures

Sinn Féin Policing and Justice Spokesperson, South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey has supported the call for a public inquiry which can get to the truth about Omagh after the damning indictment of the police handling of the investigation in the verdict delivered by Justice Weir today. Read more

Judicial double standards for Castlederg nationalists - Doherty

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty says that the impartiality of the judicial system is once again in the dock after events at Strabane Courthouse this morning. Read more

Gerry Kelly welcomes Help the Aged impact report

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has acknowledged Help the Aged’s continued effort to defeat ageism, reduce isolation and challenge neglect of Northern Ireland’s older population. Read more

Irish immigration reform for Irish in America must be a priority for 2008 – Ó Snodáigh

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has today described the thousands of Irish in America facing yet another Christmas unable to visit friends and families at home as simply wrong. Read more

Disappointment at Supreme Court ruling

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has expressed his disappointment at the ruling in the Supreme Court yesterday that ruled the foreign parents of five Irish born children do not have the right to stay in the country. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said it would be hypocritical for the… Read more

Government attitude to drugs crisis in Limerick negligent - Quinlivan

Sinn Féin's Maurice Quinlivan has described the ongoing failure of the government to support the immediate establishment of a local drugs task force in Limerick as "deeply negligent". Read more

Omagh public inquiry with cross-border remit needed - Doherty MP MLA

West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty MLA has today highlighted the catalogue of serious failings by the police service into the Omagh investigation and said that a public inquiry with cross border remit is now needed. Read more

Maskey raises concerns with Ballynafeigh PSNI

Following an arson attack and other related incidents in the Ballynafeigh area, Alex Maskey today met with a PSNI delegation to raise his concerns. Read more

Slow down this Christmas - Doherty

Sinn Féin Transport Spokeperson Senator Pearse Doherty has called on all motorists to play their part to ensure a safe Christmas on Ireland's roads. Read more

Irish immigration reform for Irish in America must be a priority for 2008 - Boylan

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has today described the thousands of Irish in America facing yet another Christmas unable to visit friends and families at home as simply wrong. Read more

Child’s death in Road Traffic Accident – ‘tragic’

Sinn Féin Road Safety spokesperson, Cathal Boylan, MLA for Newry and South Armagh, has spoken of his shock at the death of a six year old boy in a road traffic accident near Loughgall. Read more

Adults with Learning Difficulties face poor quality of future

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has said that adults with learning difficulties in the local Southern Area Trust, face a poor quality future because of the major changes proposed in the provision of day care for them. Read more

Christmas and New Year message from Gerry Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA in his Christmas and New Year message has said that we faces enormous challenges around jobs, housing, poverty, suicide, the environment, health, education and he identified the Bill of Rights and the transfer of power on policing and justice as key challenges for… Read more

Margaret Ritchie has power to scrap Tax Credit debt

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has said that the Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has the power to stop the misery of thousands of people who are unable to afford repayments to the Tax Credit system. Read more

Shock and anger after Newry sex attack

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP Conor Murphy has said that local people are shocked and angry after a late night sex attack on a 70 year-old woman in Newry last night. Read more

Double resources for Garda Drugs Squads - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has congratulated Gardaí on the major seizure of drugs in Monaghan yesterday and repeated his call for resources for Garda Drugs Squads to be doubled. Read more

Tragic South Armagh Road Death

Sinn Féin Slieve Gullion Councillor Terry Hearty, who knows the family of the young man who died following a road traffic accident in South Armagh this morning, has said that the young man’s death had deeply saddened the whole community. Read more

Sinn Féin demands release of Ballymurphy man

Sinn Féin Councillor Marie Cush has demanded the immediate release of a local Ballymurphy man who was arrested at his home this morning by the PSNI. Read more

Complaints made to Ombudsman’s Office following Ballymurphy Arrest

Sinn Féin Councillor Marie Cush, who is a member of the DPP, has today said that she intends making a formal complaint to the Ombudsman about the PSNI arrest and detention for several hours yesterday of a Ballymurphy man. Read more

Government political cowardice on extraordinary renditions must end - Ferris

Responding to revelations that Sean Lemass authorised the searching of aircrafts passing through Shannon during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962 Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris has today said government must now acknowledge it can no longer seriously justify its refusal to search suspected extraordinary rendition flights passing through Irish… Read more

2007 – Devolution Delivers - Gildernew

Sinn Féin Six County Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA in a Christmas and New Year message has highlighted the benefits of the restoration of the Good Friday Agreement Institutions. Read more

Career opportunities in Irish must be grasped – de Brún

After one full year of Irish being an official and a working language of the EU, the demand for Irish translation is much higher than the EU institutions anticipated said Bairbre de Brún MEP today. Read more

Sinn Féin demand answers from Social Development Minister

Sinn Féin MLA Fra Mc Cann has called on the Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie to explain to people the proposed changes to the way housing benefit will be paid for future claimants and those who change tenancies from the end of March this year, Read more

Attacks on West Belfast visitors

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Paul Maskey has said that those behind the attacks on two visitors to West Belfast last night should be ashamed of their actions because the area gives a huge welcome to the many thousands of visitors to the area every year. Read more

Taoiseach misleading Irish people on European Tax Proposals - McDonald

Responding to Bertie Ahern's comments this morning that plans for a European common tax base were 'stupid' Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has slammed the Taoiseach for misleading the Irish people and the Oireachtas on this issue. Read more

Sinn Féin condemn early morning Short Strand prank

East Belfast Sinn Féin Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has slammed those responsible for an early morning prank in the Short Strand area and has called on the PSNI to make CCTV footage from Mountpottinger PSNI Barracks available in order to identify those responsible. Read more

December 2007 Archives (Latest News)

December 1, 2007

December 2, 2007

December 3, 2007

December 4, 2007

December 5, 2007

December 6, 2007

December 7, 2007

December 9, 2007

December 10, 2007

December 11, 2007

December 12, 2007