June 2008 Archives (Latest News)

Government failing to engage in real debate on Lisbon issues – Ó Snodaigh

Dublin Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh, speaking after canvassing for a no vote in Crumlin today, accused the Government of failing to engage in a real debate on the content of the Lisbon Treaty. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said it is obvious from talking to the public that there are… Read more

Boylan asks for Interconnector opposition groups to be heard by DoE Committee

The Stormont Environment Committee is to meet in the Market Place theatre, Armagh City on the 19th June. Local Sinn Féin MLA, Cathal Boylan has successfully requested that representatives of local opposition groups to the proposed North – South Electricity Interconnector be allowed to give evidence to the Committee when… Read more

Sinn Fein propose co-option of Michaela Boyle for vacancy left by death of Ivan Barr

Cllr Brian McMahon, Sinn Féin group leader on Strabane District Council, has announced that long standing party activist Michaela Boyle has been selected by local party members as the proposed co-option to fill the vacancy left on the local government body as a result of the death of esteemed party… Read more

Sinn Féin response to ICMSA decision on Lisbon

Following the announcement by the ICMSA that it will be advising its members to vote Yes to the Lisbon Treaty Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson Martin Ferris Kerry TD described the decision as disappointing. Deputy Ferris acknowledged that there has been much debate within the organisation on Lisbon particularly regarding the… Read more

No to EURATOM No to Lisbon

Sinn Féin Louth Cllr. Tómas Sharkey today took part in a street theatre protest organised by Ógra Shinn Féin outside the EU parliament building on Dawson Street to highlight the commitment made to EURATOM in the Lisbon Treaty. Read more

Post Office consultation ‘a sham’

Sinn Féin South Down MLA Willie Clarke, who was the Vice Chairperson on the Assembly Ad Hoc Committee looking at proposed Post Office closures has said that the consultation process was a sham. Read more

Emphasis must be put on prevention, reduction, re-use and recycling during Waste Week - de Brún

Speaking at the start of the annual waste week organised by Belfast City Council, Bairbre de Brún MEP has said the Assembly and local councils must put the emphasis firmly on prevention, reduction, re-use and recycling. Read more

Adams: Outstanding St. Andrews issues need to be resolved

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams today said that there was a need to resolve the outstanding St. Andrews Agreement issues including the transfer of powers on policing and justice and an Irish Language Act. Read more

Minister announces review of Community Relations

Sinn Féin Education Minister for Education Caitríona Ruane today announced a review of the community relations policy in the Department of Education. Read more

End exploitation of vulnerable home owners

Sinn Féin Social Development Spokesperson, North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has said that vulnerable home owners are being exploited by private companies offering mortgage rescue schemes. Read more

Sinn Féin raise concerns regarding Chicken Waste incinerator plant at Glenavy

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Butler has raised concerns over the location of a chicken waste incinerator power plant on the shores of Lough Neagh close to Glenavy. This incinerator will be a blight on the landscape in an area which is regarded as one of Ireland's best areas of outstanding… Read more

Hartley elected Mayor of Belfast

Sinn Féin stalwart Cllr Tom Hartley has tonight been elected Mayor of Belfast. Read more

£5.1 million to be invested in Down

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £5.1million investment for the Down area this year. Read more

Funding for Gaelscoil na Daroige

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has commented on her previous decsions on funding for the Irish Medium Education Sector. Read more

£2.3 million to be invested in Ballymoney

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £2.3million investment for the Ballymoney Council area this year. Read more

Anger at ‘sinister’ loyalist BNP leaflet drop

Sinn Féin councillor Billy Leonard has said there is great anger in Portballintrae at loyalists, allegedly including a known paramilitary leader, who distributed British National Party leaflets against immigration. Read more

Armagh Council ‘shenanigans’ will not silence Sinn Féin

Armagh City and District Sinn Féin Councillor Mary Doyle has said that the attempt by the SDLP and Unionists to exclude any councillor from the Councils decision-making process, will fail. Read more

By voting NO farmers can strengthen Irelands hand in Europe

As the IFA prepares to decide its stance on the referendum Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has this morning urged farmers to vote No to the Lisbon Treaty. Read more

Sinn Féin hit out at IFA over misleading comments

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Butler has criticised the Irish Football Association Chief Executive, Howard Wells, for claiming that FIFA's latest statements over player eligibility will prevent Irish citizens living in the North from representing, the Republic of Ireland, at international level. Read more

Education Skills Authority delay will be an expensive mistake

Sinn Féin Education spokesperson John O Dowd has said narrow party politics should not stand in the way of the introduction of the Education and Skills Authority (ESA), the most radical and progressive shake up of how education administered in 35 years. Read more

Sinn Féin and UNITE Demand Government Accept Bill on Collective Bargaining

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers Rights, Arthur Morgan TD and UNITE’s Regional Secretary for Ireland, Jimmy Kelly today jointly launched a Sinn Féin bill to provide for the right to collective bargaining and mandatory trade union recognition. Speaking at the launch Arthur Morgan called on the Government to accept the… Read more

C-difficle Health Minister must do more to restore public confidence

Sinn Féin MLA Michelle O'Neill, who is deputy Chairperson of the Assembly Health Committee, has said that Health Minister Michael McGimpsey must do all in his power to restore public confidence in hospitals following the C-difficle outbreak. Read more

Budget underspend must be reprioritised - Mitchel McLaughlin MLA

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson and Assembly Finance Scrutiny Committee Chair, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has said that the Executive, through the End of Year Flexibility and in-year monitoring rounds, needs to reprioritise the money under spent by the Executive departments to those areas most in need. Read more

McGill keeps focus on Strabane Further Education deficit issue

West Tyrone Sinn Féin MLA Claire McGill accompanied by Pat Doherty MP met with Department for Employment & Learning (DEL) Permanent Secretary Dr Aideen McGinley at Stormont last Tuesday as part of a continued lobby to have the glaring deficit in Further Education investment and provision in Strabane District addressed. Read more

Ógra deliver ASIST programme in Omagh

Ógra Shinn Féin hosted their second ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) programme in Omagh at the weekend. The programme was delivered to a cross section of people including youth and community activists in Strathroy Community Centre and the two day course was funded by Omagh District Council. Read more

Education expenditure over £1.8 billion in 2007-08 says Ruane

The Sinn Féin Minister for Education, Caitríona Ruane, today announced that expenditure on education in 2007-08 was some £1.87billion – the highest level ever. Read more

“Where are Durkan’s tactics now on detention laws” Raymond McCartney MLA

Sinn Féin spokesperson, Raymond McCartney MLA (Foyle) has called on SDLP Leader, Mark Durkan to explain his claim that voting in support of an increase in the time a person can be held in custody without charge from 7 to 28 days was a good tactic to prevent even longer… Read more

Doherty organises major Rural Development Programme Seminar

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has organised a major seminar in the Mellon Country Hotel next Thursday 12th June in preparation for the roll out of the £500 million Rural Development Programme and has invited Michelle Gildernew MP, Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development to meet with rural… Read more

Call for DfP investigation of 73 million Euro under spend

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Women, Jennifer McCann MLA is calling on the Department of Finance & Personnel to investigate an underspend of 73 million Euro’s in the Peace II and the Peace II extension funds. Read more

Establishment of Victims and Survivors Commission

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness has the establishment of the Commission for Victims and Survivors as a "major step" towards addressing the pain and suffering which still exists. Read more

Rapid Transit System must benefit West Belfast

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann has welcomed the debate on a Rapid Transit System for Belfast and particularly the decision of Regional Development Minster to ensure that West Belfast is not excluded from the proposals. Read more

Good news for Strathroy Post Office overshadowed by rural closures

Sinn Féin has welcomed the decision that Strathroy Post Office in Omagh has secured a reprieve but says that this good news has been overshadowed by the news that none of the rural branches throughout Tyrone that were identified for closure have received a similar reprieve. Read more

Sinn Féin Response to IFA Decision on Lisbon

Speaking following the announcement by the IFA that it would recommend support for the Lisbon Treaty to its members Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD said that the government, despite its last minute capitulation, will not be able to fulfil its commitment to Irish farmers as the veto… Read more

Sinn Féin Response to IFA Decision on Lisbon

Speaking following the announcement by the IFA that it would recommend support for the Lisbon Treaty to its members Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD said that the government, despite its last minute capitulation, will not be able to fulfil its commitment to Irish farmers as the veto… Read more

Minister's comments on NI Events Company ludicrous - Paul Maskey

Sinn Féin Spokesperson and Chair of the Assembly Public Accounts Committee, Paul Maskey MLA has described Minister Edwin Poots comments on the NI Events Company as 'ludicrous'. Read more

Réiteach ar ceisteanna Chill Rímhinn de dhíth- Adams

Dúirt Uachtarán Sinn Féin Gerry Adams inne go bhfuil réiteach ar ceisteanna Chill Rímhinn de dhíth, go háirithe cúraimí póilíneachta agus cirt agus Acht na Gaeilge, Read more

McDonald - A better deal is possible

Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald was canvassing today on Grafton Street with MEP Bairbre de Brún and Education Minister Caitríona Ruane. Ms. McDonald said 'A no vote on June 12th will give the Irish government a strong mandate to negotiate a better deal for Ireland, the EU and the… Read more

Super-prison should not be developed – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking today as the Oireachtas Justice Committee prepared to meet to discuss a motion that would give the go ahead for the development of a super-prison at Thornton Hall Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said the committee should not be acting as a planning authority. Read more

Referendum Commission Confirms Sinn Féin Position on Trade Veto

Speaking after the Referendum Commission Clarification statement today Sinn Féin spokesperson on agriculture Martin Ferris TD said that "The Referendum Commission clarification confirms Sinn Féin's position on loss of veto on international trade agreements." Read more

Sinn Féin right on reduction in voting strength at Council of Ministers

Speaking after today's referendum commission clarification statement Sinn Fein Senator Pearse Doherty said, "The proposed changes to qualified majority voting at the Council of Ministers will result in a 50% reduction in Ireland's voting strength. When taken with the loss of a permanent EU Commissioner this is a serious loss… Read more

A&E crisis has not gone away – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said new figures show the failure of the Government and the HSE, one year on from the publication of the Emergency Department Task Force Report, to reduce the numbers of patients waiting on trolleys in A&E departments in some… Read more

Charter of Fundamental Rights does not advance workers' rights or human rights - Doherty

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty speaking during a Seanad debate on the Charter of Fundamental rights and the Lisbon Treaty said: Read more

Protocol on Member State Parliaments cosmetic window dressing – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking in the Dáil this evening Sinn Féin International Affairs Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD described the Protocol on Member State Parliaments contained in the Lisbon Treaty as nothing more than cosmetic window dressing designed to take the bad look off the treaty. Read more

Sinn Féin to nominate Martin McGuinness as Deputy First Minister

Speaking in Stormont this evening Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams confirmed that progress had been made in recent discussions between his party the two governments and the DUP about resolving outstanding issues and that Martin McGuinness would be nominated tomorrow as Deputy First Minister. Read more

Gildernew calls for Bird Keepers to be vigilant in response top confirmed Avian Flu outbreak in England

In response to confirmation of an outbreak of High Pathogenic Avian Flu at a poultry farm in Oxfordshire, Sinn Féin Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has asked all bird keepers to be alert for signs of the disease. Read more

Education Minister announces nine new Specialist Schools

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane today announced that a further nine schools will be designated as Specialist Schools from September 2008 bringing the total number of Specialist Schools to 34. Read more

Gildernew announces opening dates for agri-environment schemes

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has launched the new Countryside Management Scheme in Newcastle, County Down. Read more

Ferris pledges support for Fishermen

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries Martin Ferris TD has pledged his support for today’s actions by fishermen around the country highlighting the current crisis facing the sector. Read more

Sinn Féin to nominate Martin Mc Guinness

Speaking in Stormont this evening Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams confirmed that progress had been made in recent discussions between his party the two governments and the DUP about resolving outstanding issues and that Martin McGuinness would be nominated tomorrow as Deputy First Minister. Read more

Safety concerns of women

Sinn Féin MLA and Party Spokesperson on Women Jennifer McCann expressed concern about the recent findings contained in a new survey which claim that women today feel less safe than they did during the conflict years. Read more

Precautionary measures in response to Avian Influenza outbreak in England announced

In response to the confirmation of an outbreak of highly pathogenic H7 Avian Flu in a commercial layer flock in England, DARD has taken precautionary measures to minimise any risk here. All existing licences relating to the importation of poultry and poultry products - including meat, table eggs and captive… Read more

Newry Armagh MP congratulates local school

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MP Conor Murphy has congratulated St Paul’s High School on being nominated as a regional finalist for the Young Direct Marketing Awards, an award scheme for school children organised by the Direct Marketing Association. Read more

Staggering £1.4 billion overcharges in Payment Protection Insurance market each year

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called for greater transparency in the Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) market after the Competition Commission found that consumers are being overcharged by £1.4 billion each year. Read more

McDonald - it is possible to get a better deal for Ireland in Europe

Speaking at a press conference in Dublin today, Sinn Féin MEP for Dublin Mary Lou McDonald has said that, "It is possible to get a better deal for Ireland in Europe if the Irish people vote no on June 12th and send the government back to the negotiations with a… Read more

Sinn Féin to step up campaign in the final days

Sinn Féin's Director of the Lisbon Treaty referendum campaign Padraig MacLochlainn has said that Sinn Fein's focus in the final days of the campaign will move to what the Irish government can deliver in a re-negotiated Treaty. Read more

Gerry Adams speech after Ian Paisley Snr steps down as First Minister

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP has spoken in the Assembly about Ian Paisley Snr after he stepped down as First Minster today. Read more

Martin McGuinness Speech - Nomination as Deputy First Minister

Sinn Féin deputy First Minster Martin McGuinness has spoken in the Assembly following the nomination of Peter Robinson and himself and First and deputy First Minister. Read more

CAP Reform fruit and vegetables – allocation of SFP entitlements

Sinn Fein Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has announced her decision on the fruit and vegetable CAP reforms. Read more

Welcome for new Specialist Schools

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP Conor Murphy has welcomed the announcement that St Paul’s School in Newry has been awarded Specialist School status in Science. Read more

Education Minister must ensure equal rights for school secretaries and caretakers - Doherty

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has described the treatment of school secretaries and caretakers by the Department of Education as akin to the treatment of agency workers by private companies. Read more

SDLP should stop telling lies about water

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP and Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has said that no-one should be fooled by the lies being peddled by various SDLP spokespersons in recent press statements. Read more

Gildernew to consult stakeholders on Animal Health and Welfare decision-making

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has confirmed that she is proposing to consult stakeholders on animal health and welfare policy decision-making. Read more

SDLP challenged to set out how Lisbon Treaty good for Irish Agriculture

Speaking from Buswell's Hotel at the launch of the final phase of Sinn Féin No to Lisbon Treaty campaign Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún challenged the SDLP to explain how the Treaty could be good for Irish agriculture. Read more

Ritchie’s Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy becoming a shambles

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Fra McCann has called on the Minister of Social Development to tell the truth about her commitment to the long term delivery of the Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy as the department’s main weapon in dealing with social deprivation. Read more

No Vote would create a huge opportunity for the government to secure a better deal

Speaking today at the unveiling of a building wrap banner at the party's Parnell Square offices, Sinn Féin MEP for Dublin Mary Lou McDonald said: "A strong no vote on June 12th would create a huge opportunity for the Irish government to address those issues which are clearly of concern… Read more

Concern at possible cut to Housing Association funding

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson, West Belfast MLA Fra McCann has called on the Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie to tell the truth about the intention to cut the Housing Association Block Grant by 10%. Read more

Resistance to innovative Long Kesh/Maze project exposed

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Barry McElduff, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee, has said that the comments of the Culture Minister Edwin Poots highlighting resistance to the Long Kesh/Maze project from the civil service confirm what republicans have been saying for some time. Read more

Sinn Féin set up new working group on ‘Cost of Living’ increases

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has said that the party have established a working group to look at the increases in the Cost of Living. Read more

Maskey Slams IFA Decision to Reject Donegal Celtic Appeal

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Maskey has slammed the decision of the IFA to reject west Belfast soccer club Donegal Celtics appeal against their exclusion from the newly formed 12 team invitational league. Read more

Robinson outburst outrageous - Martina Anderson MLA

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Equality and Human Rights, Martina Anderson MLA has described comments by DUP, MLA Iris Robinson as 'outrageous' and said that the DUP MLA should reflect on the hurt and inflammatory nature of her comments. Read more

Deep concern at ex-cop bribery case

Sinn Féin Policing Spokesperson Alex Maskey MLA has said that he will be seeking the full details about the case of a former police officer working as a private investigator who pleaded guilty to bribing two other police officers for access to information held on the police computer network. Read more

Adams - No Vote would create a huge opportunity to secure a better deal

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams speaking following a meeting of the party’s leadership in Dublin this morning said ‘In this country there is vast experience when it comes to negotiations. The Irish people know that it is possible to secure a better deal but it will only happen if the… Read more

Brian Cowen's refusal to support the right to collective bargaining is not surprising

Sinn Féin spokesperson on workers rights Arthur Morgan TD has said that he is “disappointed but not surprised by Brian Cowan’s refusal to respond positively to SIPTUs request for legislation guaranteeing the right to collective bargaining.” Read more

Sinn Féin response to Red C Poll

Responding tonight to the latest Sunday Business Post Red C poll on the Lisbon Treaty Sinn Féin MEP for Dublin Mary Lou McDonald said "Tomorrows poll confirms what I am hearing on the doors, that the contest remains tight and that all is to play for. Read more

Is féidir le hÉirinn margadh i bhfad níos fearr a fháil san Eorap ar son an phobail-Mc Donald

Dúirt Mary Lou Mc Donald FPE inniu ag caint ag Preasagallamh i mBÁC in éadan an Conradh Liospóin– Read more

North West Rural Funds doubled

An allocation of funding for rural development in the North West has been more than doubled following the intervention of West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty MLA along with Sinn Féin MLA’s Martina Anderson and Francie Brolly. Read more

Politicians have a responsibility to exercise judgment

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Equality and Human Rights, Martina Anderson MLA has said that with the right to free speech comes the responsibility, particularly from politicians, to act with due care and consideration. Read more

Tá a fhios againn gur féidir margadh níos fearr a bhaint amach ar son na hÉireannaigh -

I ndiaidh cruinniú cinnirí an pháirtí ar maidin, dúirt Uachtarán Gearóid Mac Ádhaimh: Read more

Ruane launches Review of Youth Services

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has called on all those with an interest in the youth sector to contribute their views on the future shape of youth provision. Read more

Gildernew opens Nuffield Farming Trust’s Irish tour at Stormont gathering

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA, has addressed Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust delegates at a gala dinner held in Parliament Buildings, Stormont. Read more

Na Socraithe ar féidir leis an rialtas a shaorú sa Chonradh

D'ardaigh an Seanadóir Pearse Doherty sé fáthanna ar féidir leis an rialtas Conradh le sorcaithe nua a shaoradh. Dúirt sé go raibh sé chun a bheith deacair ar an rialtas margadh dona a dhíol le pobal nah Éireann díreach mar a bhí sé dodhéanta i 2005 an margadh céanna a… Read more

What the government can deliver in a renegotiated Treaty

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty today set out six key issues which the Irish government could deliver in a renegotiated Treaty. He said that the reason the government is falling back on scare tactics is because it has proved impossible for them to sell a bad deal to the Irish… Read more

de Brún to debate the Lisbon Treaty in Belfast

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún will take part in a panel debate on the Lisbon Treaty, tonight, Conway Mill, Belfast @7pm. Read more

Child DNA Retention‏

Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has welcomed the decision by the Children’s Commissioner Patricia Lewsley to raise the issue of the retention of children’s DNA by the PSNI at the United Nations. Read more

Impact of Crossnacreevy re-valuation - PJ Bradley gets it wrong (again)

Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson, West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has said that despite the revaluation on the Crossnacreevy site that farmers will not have to foot the expense. Read more

Invest NI squander £500K renting empty building at Campsie

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has reiterated her demand for a full public inquiry into Invest NI after uncovering startling new evidence about the investment body’s conduct towards the North West. Read more

Statement on the Review of the Regional Development Strategy

In a statement to the Assembly today, the Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy MP MLA announced details of his Review of the Regional Development Strategy (RDS). Read more

Extension of New Entrants Scheme confirmed

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has confirmed the extension of the closing date of the New Entrant Scheme to February 2009. Read more

£5.8 million to be invested in Armagh

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £5.8million investment for the Armagh area this year. Read more

Clough arson attack condemned

South Down Assembly Member Willie Clarke has condemned the people responsible for an arson attack on the home of a mother of two young children in Clough, County Down. Read more

Sinn Féin celebrate triple Hat Trick

Sinn Féin supporters have celebrated an historic third term as mayor on Limavady borough council. After the election of Cllr Brenda Chivers a celebration traditional Irish music night was attended by 150 supporters in Limavady town centre last Friday. Read more

Social economy has crucial role in economic success and tackling disadvantage

West Belfast Sinn Féin MLA and Deputy Chair of Enterprise, Trade & Investment Committee Jennifer McCann welcomed today’s Social Enterprise Event at St Georges Market in Belfast. Read more

Sinn Féin’s Colman Burns becomes Mayor of Newry and Mourne

Ar agaidh le chéile (Moving Forward Together) - New Mayor asks all to unite to face challenges of change. Read more

Sinn Fein MLAs part of Dublin fact finding team

Sinn Féin MLAs Fra McCann (West Belfast) and Micky Brady (Newry Armagh) will visit several parts of Dublin this week (Wednesday 11th June) to view affordable housing and mixed tenure sites at first hand. Read more

Serious Quad bike accident in Armagh

Sinn Féin Deputy Mayor of Armagh, Councillor Noel Sheridan has said that there is a deep sense of shock at the news of an incident involving a Quad bike in which a young boy has been seriously injured. Read more

Is gá béim a chur ar chosc, laghdú, athúsáid agus athchúrsáil - de Brún

Agus í ag caint i ndiaidh seachtain dramhaíola bhliantúil eagraithe ag Comhairle Cathrach Bhéal Feirste, dúirt Bairbre de Brún FPE go gcaithfidh an Tionól agus comhairlí áitiúla béim láidir a chur ar chosc, laghdú, athúsáid agus athchúrsáil. Read more

Sinn Féin call for ‘social tariff’ on energy prices

West Belfast Sinn Fein MLA Jennifer McCann has called on the Executive to work together with energy companies (including NIE and Phoenix Gas) to introduce a social tariff scheme to help alleviate fuel poverty. Read more

‘End tax credit nightmare’ - Anderson

The Assembly must take tangible steps to end the tax credit ‘nightmare’, Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has said. Read more

Domestic legislation would end agency worker exploitation faster – Morgan

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD, commenting on the fact that the EU Council of Ministers has agreed a deal on the treatment of agency workers, said that while this was welcome domestic legislation would end the exploitation of agency workers faster. Read more

Department of Health u-turn on Play Board funding welcomed

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Mid Ulster MLA Michelle O’Neill has welcomed the Department of Health announcement that funding for all Health and Social Care projects supported by the Children and Young People’s package will continue for another year and particularly the u-turn on funding for Play Board which will allow… Read more

SF Councillor condemns vicious sectarian assault on Downpatrick resident

Down Sinn Féin Councillor Éamon Mac Con Midhe has condemned the brutal sectarian attack on a man in Downpatrick at the weekend. Read more

Anger at rejection of Local Area Committees initiative

Down District Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke has criticised SDLP councillors who, with the support of Jim Wells, voted to block the formation of structured Local Area Committees during the sitting of a special Council meeting on June 2nd. Read more

Supermarket giants need to develop social conscience - McCann MLA

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann has stated that supermarket giants need to develop a social conscience after Tesco announced another growth in the sales of food. Read more

Slán go fóill Edwin

Speaking following the announcement of Gregory Campbell as the new Six County Culture Minister, Sinn Féin Culture spokesperson Francie Brolly MLA has said that Irish speakers will shed no tears at Edwin Poot's departure. Read more

New Minister an 'Environmental Dinosaur'‏

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has said that the DUP decision to appoint Sammy Wilson as Environment Minister as ‘grossly irresponsible’ and that the Environment would suffer because of it. Read more

Gildernew meets Grain Trade Association representatives

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA, has met with the Six County Grain Trade Association (NIGTA). Read more

PSNI must do more to tackle sectarian hate crime‏

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board member Daithí McKay has said that the PSNI must do more to tackle sectarian hate crime. Read more

Policing Board to discuss ‘catalogue of serious allegations’ against a number of PSNI officers

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board member Martina Anderson said that the Policing Board’s Human Rights Committee will meet on Wednesday to consider what can only be described as a catalogue of serious allegations against a number of police officers. Read more

Junior Minister welcome after schools funding

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has welcomed Health Minister Michael McGimpsey’s decision to continue to fund 54 after schools projects for a further six months. Read more

McGuinness condemns Iris Robinson’s comments

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA has said that politicians have a responsibility to promote equality for all citizens in the north. Read more

de Brún speaks at Lisbon Treaty debate in Belfast

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún last night spoke at a debate on the Lisbon Treaty in Belfast. Read more

Ritchie’s misinformation unworthy of Ministerial Office - Brady‏

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has accused SDLP Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie of deliberately attempting to misinform people about Sinn Fein’s position on the Child maintenance Bill. Read more

Vótáil Níl ar Meitheamh 12 agus tabhair sainordú láidir don rialtas conradh níos fearr a bhaint amach.

Ag caint ag preas agallamh dheireannach Shinn Féin ar Chonradh Liospóin maidin d’iarr Gerry Adams orthu siúd atá buartha faoi Chonradh Liospóin vótáil Níl ar an Déardaoin agus sainordú láidir a thabhairt don rialtas le conradh níos fearr a fháil do mhuintir na hÉireann. Read more

Over 60s urged to apply for free travel on public transport over summer months - McGill‏

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Claire Mc Gill is encouraging everyone over 60 to ensure that they secure their entitlement to free travel on public transport, which is scheduled to be introduced as and from October, by applying for their free travel Smartpasses over the summer months. Read more

Ruane commends commitment of Irish Medium sector

Sinn Féin Minister for Education Caitríona Ruane today officially opened Gaelscoil Éanna in Glengormley Read more

Minister urged to intervene in ambulance dispute

Sinn Féin Regional development Spokesperson, Raymond McCartney MLA (Foyle) has called on the Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey to intervene in a dispute over wages and conditions for ambulance staff in Derry. Read more

McGill challenges Department of Health on Home-Help cuts in Strabane

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Claire McGill is challenging Department of Health denials that there has been a reduction in the allocation for home help services for the elderly in Strabane District saying that all evidence is pointing to a clear pattern of sweeping cuts being imposed on essential services… Read more

Empey must act to improve take-up of apprenticeships

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA and Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee has said that Minster Reg Empey must take on board the committee recommendations to address the serious failures of the Training for Success scheme. Read more

SDLP vote against money for departments ‘daft and dangerous’

Sinn Féin Chief Whip, North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has described the decision of the SDLP to vote against the ‘Supply Resolution’ in the Assembly today as both daft and dangerous. Read more

£2.4 million to be invested in Cookstown area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £2.4million investment for the Cookstown area this year. Read more

Sinn Féin MLA’s visit Scottish Parliament

A delegation of Sinn Fein MLA's from the Assembly are today visiting the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. The group includes John O'Dowd MLA, Assembly group leader and Education spokesperson, Sue Ramsey MLA, vice-chair of the Employment & Learning Committee, and Sean Oliver, Sinn Fein organiser for Scotland, England and Wales. Read more

Education Village Campus focus of double Sinn Féin Ministerial visit to Omagh

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP MLA Pat Doherty has welcomed confirmation that deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness and Education Minister Caitríona Ruane will be in Omagh on Friday for a series of engagements primarily concerned with continuing efforts to secure lands at the vacated Lisanelly/St Lucia military bases in the… Read more

deputy First Minister visits historic West Belfast Mill

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today visited the historic Conway Mill in West Belfast, to recognise the important contribution the complex has made to the economic and cultural regeneration of the area and to hear about plans to redevelop the complex. Read more

McLaughlin congradulates Gaelscoil Éanna

Sinn Féin South Antrim MLA, Mitchel McLaughlin has congratulated the Staff and Pupils of Gaelscoil Éanna in Glengormley on its official opening by Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane. Read more

Ferris calls on Minister to meet fishermen

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries, Martin Ferris TD has called on the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries Brendan Smith to meet directly with the Federation of Irish Fishermen to discuss the crisis facing the sector. Read more

Ó Caoláin backs IMPACT protest against health cuts

Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has expressed his support and that of his party for the protest today (Wednesday) by healthcare workers in the IMPACT trade union against cutbacks in the health services being imposed by the Government and the HSE. Read more

Sinn Féin calls for massive turnout in Lisbon Treaty referendum

Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald speaking on the eve of poll on the Lisbon Treaty referendum called on people to come out and vote in massive numbers to give the government a strong mandate to re-negotiate the Treaty and get a better deal for Ireland. Ms. McDonald was on… Read more

Sinn Féin calls for massive turnout in Lisbon Treaty referendum

Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald speaking on the eve of poll on the Lisbon Treaty referendum called on people to come out and vote in massive numbers to give the government a strong mandate to re-negotiate the Treaty and get a better deal for Ireland. Ms. McDonald was on… Read more

Over £1 billion transport investment planned for North West

There is now a commitment to infrastructure investment in the city of Derry and the North West that can reassure all the people in the region. That was the message that Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy delivered when he visited the city today. Read more

Pensioners living on the breadline

“It is vitally important that people are fully informed of their entitlements through public awareness campaigns delivered with the same vigour as those being followed to eliminate benefit fraud. There is clearly something wrong when huge numbers of our citizens are missing out on their entitlements.” Mickey Brady MLA Read more

Door-to-Door Transport services for Derry and Belfast

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy today announced new Door-to-Door transport services for Derry and Belfast which will improve transport accessibility for older people and people with disabilities. Read more

Cut backs starting to bite in Crumlin Children’s Hospital

Dublin South Central Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has revealed that staff cuts are beginning to bite at Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Speaking today health workers held protests against hospital cuts, Deputy Ó Snodaigh revealed that staff have been let go from Urology, Neurology, Dieticians and Pastoral Care while porters… Read more

SELB criticised after decision to axe South Armagh School bus transport

Sinn Féin Slieve Gullion area Sinn Féin Councillor Terry Hearty has said that the announcement by the Southern Education and Library Board that they are withdrawing School Bus Services to some Schools in the south Armagh area has come as a shock to all. Read more

Government must take joint approach to tackle unemployment

Sinn Féin TD and Enterprise, Trade and Employment Spokesperson Arthur Morgan, responding to the latest unemployment figures which show the largest annual increase in unemployment ever recorded, has called on the Government to start taking action to counter the increase. Morgan said the Government's response to date had been inadequate… Read more

Adams condemns attack on Cars in Black's Road estate

Sinn Féin West Belfast MP Gerry Adams has condemned an attack this morning in which a number of parked cars were attacked and damaged in the Oranmore Drive area of Black's Road. Read more

Maskey welcomes launch of new information pack for asylum seekers

Sinn Féin South Belfast MLA Alex Maskey has welcomed the new information pack produced by the Refugee Action Group. Read more

Sinn Féin women take top County Derry council posts

Sinn Féin councillor, Kate McEldowney has been elected chairperson of Magherafelt Council. She is the second republican woman to take a top council post in County Derry in recent days following her party colleague Brenda Chivers's election as mayor of Limavady. Cllr McEldowney said: 'It is a great honour for… Read more

Gildernew celebrates Loughry Food centre success story

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has visited the Food Business Incubation Centre (FBIC) at Loughry Campus of CAFRE (College of Agriculture, Food & Rural Enterprise) in Cookstown to mark the centre’s 10th anniversary celebrations. Read more

Residents unhappy at PSNI response to spate of car crimes

Sinn Féin Councillor Billy Page has raised concerns about PSNI response times to reported crimes after a number of incidents in the Ballymagroarty area over the weekend. Read more

Minister meets Irish language group

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy today met with several Irish language organisations, Conradh na Gaeilge, Pobal and Comhaltas Uladh to discuss the potential to develop an Irish scheme for the department. Read more

Launch of Sexual Violence Strategy

Sinn Féin MLA and Party Spokesperson on Women Jennifer McCann has welcomed the launch of today’s strategy aimed at tackling sexual violence and abuse. Read more

Tour of the North dialogue welcomed

North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has welcomed the news that this year’s Tour of the North parade will not pass by Ardoyne. Read more

Report on Women Prisoners – Sinn Féin reiterates call for separate Women’s Prison

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Women, West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann has said that while the Chief Inspector of Prisons and the Criminal Justice Inspection report published today highlights progress made since their last inspection in November 2004, that there was still a need for progress on delivering a separate women… Read more

Ruane officially opens Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane today cut the ribbon to officially open Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach in Crumlin. Read more

Gildernew sets £100 million challenge for farmers and builders

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has called for farmers and the building industry to work in partnership to ensure the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS) is delivered. Read more

42 days detention a monumental mistake - Raymond McCartney MLA

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has said that the British government has made a monumental mistake in introducing 42 day detention. Read more

Incinerators not a solution to the climate problem

Speaking prior to a vote on a report on waste management next Tuesday in Strasbourg, Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that incinerators are not a solution to the climate problem. Read more

Call for Sammy Wilson to rule out community cash for nuclear waste trade-off

Sinn Fein Environment Spokesperson, North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has called on the new Environment Minister Sammy Wilson to rule out the jobs and money to councils ‘volunteering’ to host radioactive waste being suggested by the British Government. Read more

Peace Process Central to US President's Visit

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will take the opportunity presented by next weeks visit by US President George Bush to raise a number of issues including the undocumented Irish. Read more

Second Hoax Device in 48 Hours

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Martina Anderson speaking following the intervention by local community workers in the Bogside which prevented the placing of yet another hoax type device in the Joseph Place area in Derry. Read more

Sexual attack in Lenamore‏

Sinn Féin Councillor Elisha McLaughlin has warned women not to walking alone in the Lenamore area after a mother pushing a pram was the victim of a sexual attack. Read more

McLaughlin welcomes official opening of Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach

Sinn Féin representative Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has welcomed the Official opening by Education Minister, Cáitriona Ruane today of Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach in Crumlin. Read more

Specialist schools help education reform - Ruane

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has told post-primary principals that specialist schools can help deliver important education reforms. Read more

Peace Process Central to US President's Visit

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness will take the opportunity presented by next weeks visit by US President George Bush to raise a number of issues including the undocumented Irish. Read more

McCann condemns attack on Polish Household

West Belfast MLA and Party spokesperson on Ethnic Minorities Jennifer McCann condemned yesterdays attack on a house in which members of the Polish Community lived. Read more

Ógra Shinn Féin to take part in Protest at Bush Visit

Ógra Shinn Féin will participate in the protests against George Bush and US lead War in Iraq when he is expected in Belfast next Monday 16th June. Read more

Mayor demands action on Limavady Fire attacks

Sinn Féin Mayor of Limavady, Cllr Brenda Chivers has called for an urgent meeting with the PSNI, Limavady DPP and the NI Fire and Rescue Service to address the ongoing spate of arson attacks which she described as “a campaign of attempted murder”. Read more

Government has a clear and strong mandate to renegotiate the Lisbon Treaty

Speaking from Dublin Castle following the announcement of a No vote in the Lisbon Treaty referendum Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald said: “The people have spoken. They share our concerns about the Lisbon Treaty and believe that a better deal is possible. They also share our view that Ireland’s… Read more

Gildernew consults on Evidence and Innovation Plan

Sinn Féin Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has launched a consultation on the Department of Agriculture and Rural development (DARD) Evidence and Innovation Strategy 2008-13. Read more

McGuinness joins in celebrations at St Patrick's Primary School

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of St Patrick’s Primary School in Creggan, Carrickmore, Co Tyrone when he cut the ribbon to officially open the school’s new library. Read more

Deputy First Minister visits former Lisanelly army base

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA has paid a visit to the former Lisanelly Army base in Omagh to receive a briefing on the potential the 160 acre site might hold for future development. Read more

Sinn Féin to seek a meeting with An Taoiseach

Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald speaking following the defeat of the Lisbon Treaty referendum said that the party is to seek a meeting with the Taoiseach Brian Cowen. This follows his comments that he is to consult widely at home and abroad. Read more

Gildernew announces RDP funding allocations

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has announced the initial allocations of funding from the Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2007-2013. Read more

Praise for Fire Service following Newry city Fire

Newry and Mourne Sinn Féin Councillor Charlie Casey has praised Fire-fighters who tackled a massive blaze in the Monaghan Street area of Newry on Sunday. Read more

More can be done regarding EU waste management - de Brún

Speaking prior to a vote on a report on waste management on Tuesday in Strasbourg, Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that new EU waste management legislation still leaves a lot to be desired. Read more

Leonard concerned at medical charges in DLA cases

Sinn Féin Cllr Billy Leonard has expressed ‘great concern’ at what he sees as an increasing trend by GPs and medical centres to charge DLA claimants who need their medical notes for DLA appeal hearings. Read more

Parents take to the streets over cuts to school bus service

Concerned parents will bring their protest against the decision of the Southern Education Library Board (SELB) to cut the school bus service in South Armagh onto tomorrow, Tuesday 17th June. Read more

Sinn Féin preparing detailed proposals for government

Sinn Féin MEP Mary Lou McDonald speaking at a press conference in Dublin this morning said: "The Irish government has a strong hand to play. For any Treaty to proceed it requires the support of all 27 member states including Ireland. Brian Cowen has been presented with a real opportunity… Read more

Adams to meet Empey on future of St. Mary's

West Belfast MP Gerry Adams MLA, will be meeting Reg Empey, the Minister for Employment and Learning tomorrow - Tuesday - to discuss the future funding of St. Mary's University College on the Falls Road. Read more

Assembly ‘must act to end child poverty scandal’

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson speaking ahead of the publication of a major report into child poverty has said that the report findings have the potential to eradicate the ‘scandal’ of child poverty here. Read more

North West Gateway officials commit to meet with Strabane District Council - Doherty

Sinn Féin says that a meeting it held with top officials from North West Gateway Initiative to discuss progress on specific projects in the Strabane-Lifford and Derg-Finn Valley cross-border corridors as part of the North/South Intergovernmental body’s wider remit of taking a strategic approach to issues of economic and infrastructural… Read more

SDLP comments about Garvaghy Road ‘foolish and dangerous’

Sinn Féin MLA John O'Dowd has said that the latest statement from Dolores Kelly’s about the Drumcree march is as foolish as it is dangerous and is unbecoming to someone who claims to represent the best interest of the community in the Garvaghy Road and indeed the wider community. Read more

Attack on Emergency Services attending Newry fire wrong

Newry and Mourne Sinn Féin Councillor Brendan Curran has said that he shared the anger and disappointment of many at the most recent stone throwing attack on Fire and Emergency Services in the Newry area. Read more

Limavady Mayor appeal for support for ‘Keep Baby Katie Awake’ camapign

The Sinn Féin Mayor of Limavady Brenda Chivers has called for support for the “Keep Baby Katie Awake” campaign to raise funds to send a sick baby from Magherafelt for treatment at the Chicago Memorial Children's Hospital, the foremost epilepsy neuro-imaging and treatment centre in the world. Read more

£5.3 million to be invested in Dungannon and South Tyrone

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has announced a £5.3million investment for the Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council area this year. Read more

Sinn Féin’s Noel Sheridan set to become Mayor of Armagh City and District Council

Armagh City and District Councillor Noel Sheridan has been nominated to be next Mayor of Armagh City and District Council. Read more

Maoiniú mór faighte don Chiste Craoltóireachta Gaeilge – Adams

Tá sé nochta ag Uachtarán Shinn Féin Gerry Adams MP MLA gur gheall Priomh-Aire na Breataine Gordon Brown go gcinnteoidh sé go mbeidh an maoiniú nua ar fáil chun leanúint leis an mhaoiniú don Chiste Craoltóireachta Gaeilge nuair a théann sé as feidhm i Márta 2009. Seo i ndiaidh tréan-ionadaíochta… Read more

Major Funding Secured for Irish language Broadcast Fund - Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has revealed that following intense representations by Sinn Féin to the British government that the British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has committed to ensuring that 'new finance will be available to continue funding of the Irish Language Broadcast Fund when it expires in… Read more

More still needs to be done on waste prevention - de Brún

Speaking in Strasbourg on a debate on waste prevention and prior to a vote on a report on waste management on Tuesday, Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that proposals on waste prevention have weakened to the point where they will not help in stabilising and reducing waste. Read more

Deputy First Minster committed to building a diverse and equal society

The Sinn Féin deputy First Minister today joined PSNI Chief Constable Hugh Orde and An Garda Síochána Commissioner Fachtna Murphy at a conference exploring key issues surrounding living and working in a diverse society. Read more

Lisbon Referendum - SDLP should apologise for ‘head bangers’ slur

Sinn Féin Assembly group leader John O’Dowd MLA has said that the SDLP should apologise for their labelling of those who voted No against the Lisbon Treaty Referendum as ‘head bangers’. Read more

Sinn Féin set up new working group on ‘Cost of Living’ increases

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has said that the party have established a working group to look at the increases in the Cost of Living. Read more

de Brún joins French and Dutch colleagues for press conference on Lisbon Treaty

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún today joined French and Dutch colleagues from the European United Left/Nordic Green Party EU parliamentary group of which Sinn Féin is a member at a press conference hosted by the group in Strasburg on the outcome of the Irish Lisbon Treaty referendum. Read more

Sinn Féin call for controlled burning of gorse

South Down Sinn Féin Assembly Member Willie Clarke has said that he believes the Department of the Environment should allocate additional resources to the controlled burning of gorse in sensitive natural habitats across the North. Read more

Assembly to debate new report on Child Poverty

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson speaking ahead of the publication of a major report into child poverty has said that the report findings have the potential to eradicate the 'scandal' of child poverty here. Read more

Government must intervene in school secretaries and caretakers dispute - Doherty

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has called on the Government to intervene in the dispute with school secretaries and caretakers and address the unacceptable situation which sees these workers across the state receive disparate rates of pay and conditions. Read more

Morgan calls for fuel allowance increase

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Social and Family Affairs Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD called on the Government to increase fuel allowance in light of the fact that fuel prices now adds up to 10% of many peoples weekly income. Read more

Sinn Féin will not support any rural planning policy that repackages PPS14

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Spokesperson, West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has warned the new Environment Minster Sammy Wilson that Sinn Fein will not support rural planning proposals that fall short of delivering a sustainable future for our rural communities or resembles the failed PPS14 policy of British Direct… Read more

If Durkan wants progress on regulation of landlords he should speak to Margaret Ritchie

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson, Fra McCann MLA has ridiculed SDLP leader Mark Durkan’s position on housing regulation. Read more

Sinn Féin Meet Strategic Review of Parades Body

Sinn Féin MLA’s Carál Ní Chuilín and John O’Dowd met with the Strategic Review of Parades Body (SRPB) today, Tuesday 17th June, to outline Sinn Féin’s initial response to the SRPB Interim Report published earlier in the year. Read more

Anti-Bush Anti Imperialism Raised Loud and Clear in Belfast

Ogra Shinn Fein mobilized activists from across Ireland for yesterday's protest against US Imperialism at Belfast City Hall. The protest was called in response to George Bush visiting the city. Read more

Minister opens Bunscoil an Traonaigh in Fermanagh

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, opened the latest Irish medium school, Bunscoil an Traonaigh in Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh today. Read more

Time to galvanise political support for Irish ‘undocumented’ – Cathal Boylan

Newry and Armagh Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan welcoming the raising of the “undocumented Irish” issue by his colleague, deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness with US President George Bush, has said that there is a now a great opportunity to galvanise political support in the campaign for comprehensive immigration reform… Read more

Alliance party using EPA issue to score political points

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has slammed the Alliance party for using the issue of an Independent Environmental Protection Agency to score political points and divide political parties who are in support of an EPA. Read more

Ó Snodaigh ridicules planning procedure for Thornton Hall Super Prison

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has described the process by which the Super-Prison at Thornton Hall is to receive its planning permission as farcical. Read more

Sinn Féin says alarming rise in jobless must be addressed

Sinn Féin Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has supported a Private Members’ Motion in the Dáil this evening which calls for shorter summer recesses for the Dáil. Read more

Gildernew discusses Beef prices with NIMEA

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has met with representatives of NIMEA on the issue of beef price differentials across Britain and Ireland. Read more

Sinn Féin attend 24th Anniversary Event of Dunnes Stores Workers' Anti-Apartheid Boycott

Sinn Féin TD for Cavan-Monaghan and Dáil group leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin this morning attended the 24th anniversary event marking the beginning of the anti-apartheid boycott by Dunnes Stores workers in 1984. The event included the unveiling of a plaque. Read more

Hundreds cycle on Bike to Work Day

Sinn Féin Transport Minister Conor Murphy and Sinn Féin Mayor of Belfast Tom Hartley hosted a cycle event for hundreds of commuters in Belfast this morning in the Bike2Work Day event which is part of Travelwise Bike Week 2008. Read more

Empey lobbied over future of St. Mary’s

West Belfast MP Gerry Adams MLA, and Sue Ramsay MLA, along with Peter Finn, Principal of St. Mary’s and Brian McFall, Bursar of the University College, have met with Reg Empey, the Minister for Employment and Learning to discuss the future funding and enrolment numbers for St. Mary’s University College… Read more

Statement on Land Registers: The LandWeb Project

Sinn Féin Public Accounts Committee Chair Person Paul Maskey MLA has welcomed the report on Transforming Land Registers: The Land Web Report. Read more

McCartney welcomes new Birmingham /London Luton air link

Sinn Féin Party spokesperson on Transport and Regional Development, Raymond McCartney has welcomed the announcement by Ryanair of new services from the City of Derry Airport to Birmingham International and London Luton Airports. Read more

We now have an enormous opportunity to re-open the debate about the future of Europe

Speaking in the European Parliament on the outcome of the Lisbon Treaty, Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has highlighted the momentous opportunity available to re-open the debate about the future of Europe. Read more

Doherty calls for Seanad debate on unemployment

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has called for a Seanad debate on the jobs crisis in the State. Speaking in the Seanad today Senator Doherty asked the leader of the house Senator Donie Cassidy to invite the Tánaiste Mary Coughlan to come into the Seanad to set out the Government's… Read more

Government can and must secure a better deal

Speaking during today’s Dáil debate on the Lisbon Treaty Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD described Thursday June 12th 2008 as a day that “deserves to be remembered as a great day for democracy in Ireland and in Europe. It was a positive assertion by the Irish electorate of their power to… Read more

Mary Lou McDonald article in the Irish Times

THE PEOPLE have spoken. The Lisbon Treaty is dead. Now it's time for Plan B. While some advocates of the treaty have attempted to castigate the electorate for rejecting it, more reasonable voices have called it right. There is no crisis. Ireland will not be thrown out of the European… Read more

Sinn Féin slam government phone line ‘rip-off’'

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has hit out after it emerged that low-income families are forced to pay to use government help lines. Read more

Tá deis againn anois chun an díospóireacht faoin bhealach chun tosaigh san Eoraip a athoscailt

Ag caint sa pharlaimint i Strasbourg inniu, dúirt an FPE Bairbre de Brún,"Labhair daoine in Éireann." Read more

Morgan calls for enhanced all Ireland co-operation on agriculture issues

Speaking at a meeting of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee which was attended by Six County Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew Gildernew MP, in Leinster House today Sinn Féin TD Arthur Morgan called for enhanced All Ireland co-operation on all areas vital to agriculture and fishing. Read more

Association for Quality Education plans offer nothing but confusion

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson, Upper Bann MLA John O’Dowd has dismissed the Association for Quality Education plans for their own version of the 11+ test as more about maintaining the status of their own schools than responding to the need for change across the entire education system. Read more

Sinn Féin Submission to the Irish government - A Better Deal

Download Sinn Féin's Submission to the Irish government - A Better Deal. This was presented to the Irish government on Wednesday June 18th. Read more

Deputy First Minister attends launch of Centre of Excellence

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today attended the launch of the Centre of Excellence for Public Health Research in the North of Ireland. Read more

Trillick primary school to close

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has approved a proposal from the Western Education and Library Board to close Trillick Primary School in County Tyrone from 31 August 2008. Read more

Brian Cowen must now argue for renegotiation of Lisbon

Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald was in Leinster House today to brief the media on Sinn Fein's submission to An Taoiseach on what a renegotiated Treaty must contain. The detailed document has been delivered to Brian Cowen in advance of tomorrow's Council of Ministers meeting in Brussels. Read more

Report on Road Deaths gives no help in reducing accidents – Boylan

A report carried out by the Criminal Justice Inspectorate highlighting the unacceptable death toll on our roads gives no real answers to the causes or prevention of road traffic accidents states Sinn Féin Road Safety spokesperson, Cathal Boylan. Read more

New National Drugs Strategy must resource frontline services - Doherty

Speaking in the Seanad today on the development of a new National Drugs Strategy from 2009 - 2016 Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty said the HSE recruitment ban is preventing the introduction of much needed drug treatment services even where funding has already been approved. Read more

Gildernew meets with joint OÄºreachtas committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, has today met with members of the Dáil Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in Dublin. Read more

Environment Committee hears electricity pylon concerns

Newry and Armagh Sinn Féin MLA, Cathal Boylan, has said that he is pleased that the Assembly Environment Committee is sitting in the Market Place theatre, Armagh City and had the opportunity to hear from two groups opposed to the present plans for a cross border electricity Interconnector. Read more

PSNI must be ‘beyond reproach’

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board member Martina Anderson said that the since Sinn Fein joined the Policing Board there is now a much greater focus on ensuring police officers who break the law are dealt with properly. Read more

Health cuts are hitting services for disabled people – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on cuts in disability services, Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

Morgan calls for paid paternity leave

Sinn Féin TD and Spokesperson on Workers’ Rights Arthur Morgan, responding to the ESRI and Equality Authority report published today, said that the Government must introduce paid paternity leave to redress the imbalance in family life. Read more

A new deal for Europe must be negotiated

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP today hosted a joint press conference with senior politicians from the Netherlands and France in Brussels. Joining the MEP were French Socialist Senator and President of Pour la Republique Sociale Jean-Luc Mélenchon, Francis Wurtz MEP and President of the GUE/NGL group in the European parliament and… Read more

Gormley must halt incineration of deadly hydrogen cyanide - Sinn Féin

Wicklow Sinn Féin Councillor John Brady has called on the Minister for the Environment John Gormley to intervene and halt a plan to dispose highly toxic chemicals in the Wicklow Mountains. Read more

Ó Snodaigh opposes continuation of Offences Against the State Acts

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh has opposed a Government motion in the Dáil today which gives effect to the continuation of draconian measures contained in sections of the Offences Against the State Act. Deputy Ó Snodaigh has moved the Offences Against the State Act Repeal Bill. Read more

Ferris condemns betrayal of Irish Fisheries

Speaking during a special Dáil debate on fisheries this afternoon the Sinn Féin Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD condemned what he claimed was decades of betrayal of the Irish fisheries dating back to the negotiations for EU entry in the early 1970s. Read more

Belfast Mayor Outlines Approach to Somme Commemoration

Sinn Féin Mayor of Belfast Tom Hartley today announced his intention to lay a laurel wreath on July 1st at the City Hall in remembrance of those killed at the Somme. Cllr. Hartley also called for the City Council to take the lead in creating an act of civic remembrance… Read more

Stormont Security measures cost £650,000

Sinn Féin South Down MLA, Willie Clarke has questioned the value for money after it was disclosed that the recent added security measures around Parliament Buildings cost an estimated £650,000. Read more

Tackling poverty and exclusion requires partnership: Junior Minister Gerry Kelly

Addressing poverty, disadvantage and exclusion requires co-ordinated action to support the most vulnerable. Read more

deputy First Minister praises work of learning together initiative

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was in Ballymena today at an event to showcase the work of a group set up by nine local schools to combat sectarianism. Read more

Lisbon Treaty rejection : Interview with Mary Lou McDonald MEP

IN the aftermath of a resounding ‘No’ vote in the Lisbon Treaty referendum, the Sinn Féin MEP for Dublin, MARY LOU McDONALD speaks to An Phoblacht’s ELLA O’DWYER about the result and what Sinn Féin believes should happen now. Read more

Lisbon Treaty rejection : How the campaigns played out

Writing in An Phoblacht Sinn Féin Policy Director, Lisbon Treaty Referendum CampaignEoin Ó Broin said "We won but the hard work is just beginning" Read more

College lecturer’s dispute requires dialogue not threats

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey, who is the Chairperson of the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, has said that threats to suspend college lecturers are not the way to resolve the long running dispute over pay and she called for intensive dialogue to break the impasse. Read more

de Brún to take part in EU climate change committee meeting with Ken Livingstone

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that reducing CO2 emissions by 80% by 2050 is a step in the right direction. Read more

Sinn Féin dismiss Irish Mirror claims

Sinn Féin Assembly Group Leader John O’Dowd MLA has dismissed claims in the Irish Mirror that the party is considering a ministerial reshuffle as ‘nonsense’. Read more

Brady meeting with Trust for update on Daisy Hill investigation

Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has confirmed that he will be meeting with senior Officials from the Southern Health and Social Care Trust on Monday to discuss the investigation into the treatment of more than 300 gynaecology patients at Daisy Hill Hospital. Read more

Gildernew urges farmers to grasp FNMS funding opportunity

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has congratulated the organisers of a joint seminar to encourage more builders to take on slurry tank work. Read more

Bring Credit Unions ability to offer wider Financial Services into line with England and 26-counties now

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson Mitchel Mc Laughlin MLA has called on DETI Minister, Arlene Foster to respond positively to the appeal from the Credit Union Movement to remove the barriers that prevent them offering similar Financial Services to their counterparts in England and the South of Ireland. Read more

McLaughlin calls for action on major fish kill

Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called on the Environmental and Heritage Services (EHS) to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to identify the source of the pollution of the 6 mile river. Read more

Sinn Féin hit out at PSNI and Parades Commission over Orange March in Dunmurry

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Butler has criticised the PSNI and the Parades Commission for not informing local community representatives about an Orange March in Dunmurry village on Friday night, 20th June. Read more

Councillors appointed to Rural Development Programme Body

Sinn Féin Down District Councillors Mickey Coogan and Willie Clarke MLA have been appointed to sit on the Joint Committee and the Local Action Group (LAG) that will administer the £500 million Rural Development Programme. Read more

Adams welcomes EU decision to lift sanctions against Cuba

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has welcomed the decision by the EU that it will lift sanctions it imposed on Cuba in 2003. Read more

Republicans are facing forward with confidence - Mary Lou McDonald MEP

Speaking at the Annual Wolfe Tone commemoration in Bodenstown Mary Lou McDonald said, "This time last year who would have predicted the political landscape we find ourselves in today. Both Ian Paisley and Bertie Ahern have gone. The people have rejected the Lisbon Treaty. Our own party has undergone a… Read more

Warm Homes Scheme - Audit report highlights lack of progress in tackling fuel poverty

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Maskey, who is Chair of the Assembly Public Accounts Committee has welcomed the Audit Office report on the Warm Homes: Tackling Fuel Poverty. Read more

Fears remain over future of tax office jobs – Leonard

Sinn Féin’s Billy Leonard has said that there is still a “major job of work” to do on the issue of the Revenue and Custom jobs. He is still fearful that the consultation will not necessarily save 39 jobs still directly under threat. Read more

Welcome for EU common sense approach on Cuba

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has given a tentative welcome to the EU lifting of sanctions on Cuba. Read more

Women’s Groups to protest over funding uncertainty

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Women Jennifer McCann MLA will join with protesters at Stormont today to raise her concern about the lack of funding for women’s organisations involved in delivering Training and Education and other frontline services for women. Read more

de Brún to take part in EU climate change committee meeting with Ken Livingstone

Speaking prior to the Thematic Session of European Parliament Temporary Committee on Climate Change, today, Monday 23rd June 15.00 - 18.30, Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that a target of reducing CO2 emissions by 80% by 2050 is a step in the right direction. Read more

‘Say no to Cocaine’ Poster launch

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann has welcomed the launch of a new a ‘Say no to Cocaine’ poster launch in the Long Gallery at Stormont today. Read more

Doherty calls on Health Minister to announce McGinley Inquiry

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has called on Health Minister Michael McGimpsey to reverse his decision to refuse a full Inquiry into the circumstances by which deceased Strabane woman Maureen McGinley was found to have sustained 32 rib fractures following her death in January 2007. Read more

Anderson calls for support for fuel co-ops

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson is calling on local communities, businesses and the Executive to support a number of measures to help alleviate the fuel poverty crisis. Read more

Stormont to open doors to Rainbow project

Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has said that Stormont must be a welcoming place to everyone regardless of sexual orientation. She was speaking ahead of a Long gallery event tomorrow, organised on behalf of the Rainbow project. Read more

Brady meets Health CEO to discuss Daisy Hill safety

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has meet with Colm Donaghy, Chief Executive of the Southern Health Trust and Paddy Loughran, Director of Acute Service at daisy Hill Hospital in Newry to discuss the ongoing investigation into a senior consultant who had worked in the Gynecology department. Read more

Analysis of Long Kesh/Maze site must go beyond monetary benefits

Sinn Fein MLA Barry McElduff, who is Chairperson of the Assembly Culture Arts and Leisure Committee, has said that when Gregory Campbell and the Executive consider the case for the redevelopment of the Long Kesh/maze site that there must be a full analysis of the non monetary benefits including the… Read more

Adams welcomes Empey commitment on Conversion Fund for St. Mary’s

West Belfast MP Gerry Adams MLA, has welcomed the announcement in the Assembly today, by the Minister for Employment and Learning Reg Empey, that he is to extend the conversion fund for St. Mary’s University College for an additional year. Read more

Junior Ministers praise youth for efforts to end interface violence in north Belfast

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA met with a group of young people at Stormont today to hear first hand of their campaign to end interface violence in north Belfast. Read more

Minister launches Every school a good school: A strategy for raising achievement in literacy and numeracy

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, today outlined her new strategy for improving literacy and numeracy skills. Read more

Minister announces free travel for over 60-64s

Sinn Féin Transport Minister Conor Murphy announced today that people aged 60-64 will be able to travel on public transport for free for the first time in the North. Read more

Fatal Creggan shooting

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson condemned last night’s fatal shooting of a young man in the Creggan area of Derry. Read more

Moyle Councillor Oliver McMullan elected Chair of local District Policing Partnership

Sinn Féin Moyle Councillor Oliver McMullan was elected as Chairperson of the local District Policing Partnership at a meeting on Monday 23rd June, 2008, effective from December. Read more

Old Boy network 'alive and well' in Lisburn Council - Butler

Sinn Féin Councillor and MLA Paul Butler has today said that his party sees no change in Unionist mindsets in Lisburn Council following yesterday's council AGM and prior to tonight’s Council meeting, Read more

Time for DUP to stop being childish about Irish medium education

Speaking prior to a DUP motion on the status of Gaelscoil na Daróige in Derry, Sinn Féin Irish language spokesperson Francie Brolly MLA has said that todays debate is another attack on the Irish language and another attack on the Education Minister Caitríona Ruane. Read more

Time for Government to Outline its Economic Strategy – Morgan

Responding to the gloomy forecast contained in the ESRI’s latest Quarterly Economic Commentary, Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Economic Affairs Arthur Morgan TD, demanded that the Government outline how it intends to manage the current economic decline and ensure an early recovery. Read more

Boylan raises fuel cost for commuters and need for public sector relocation

Sinn Féin MLA, Cathal Boylan, has raised the issue of fuel mileage allowances available to civil servants who travel each day to work with the Minister for Finance and Personnel, asking if he would consider raising the amount which can be claimed in light of the spiralling cost of diesel… Read more

Gerry Adams to undertake a number of London engagements

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams will travel to London tomorrow for a series of engagements. Mr Adams will host a Sinn Féin reception along with MEP Mary Lou McDonald and address a public meeting in the Irish Centre, Camden Square tomorrow evening at 7.30pm. Read more

SDLP signed up to Water Panel Report

Sinn Féin Regional Development Spokesperson Raymond McCartney has questioned why the SDLP are now raising the issue of churches paying for the water and sewerage when SDLP members of the Regional Development Committee sat through the evidence session on the Water Panel Report and even enthusiastically said that the ‘review… Read more

Food costs increase by 21% as supermarket profits spiral

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has called on the major food suppliers to exercise restraint in passing on fuel increases to the consumers after it was revealed that average family food costs have increased by over £60 per week. Read more

Sinn Féin back call for North West Sexual Assault Referral Centre

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has backed the call for a Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) to be built in Derry. Read more

Positive Decisions on Regional Women's and Children's Hospital needed now - Adams

The west Belfast MP Gerry Adams MLA, Sue Ramsay MLA and Jennifer McCann MLA, and the new Belfast Mayor Cllr. Tom Hartley today visited the Royal Hospital to be briefed on plans for the new Regional Women's and Children's Hospital, and the very real worries that now exist about the… Read more

de Brún welcomes Ken Livingstone comments on incineration

Monday, the 23rd of July, saw Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún as theme leader for a thematic session on climate change in the European Parliament in Brussels, with former London Mayor Ken Livingstone as the key speaker. Read more

McShane takes up Vice Chair in Moyle Council‏

Sinn Féin Councillor, Cara McShane, has been appointed the new Vice-Chair to Moyle District Council, at Monday’s night’s Annual General Meeting. Read more

Adams praises work of Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta

Sinn Féin West Belfast MP Gerry Adams this morning formally unveiled a new banner which now sits around the new proposed premises for Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta / The Trust Fund for Irish Medium Education. Read more

British Army lie on murder of Aidan McAnespie exposed – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Cavan-Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that the findings of the Historical Enquiry Team (HET) on the fatal shooting of Aidan McAnespie at Aughnacloy on the Monaghan/Tyrone border in 1988 have exposed the lie told by the British Army about the killing. Read more

Increase in work place deaths highlights need for Corporate Manslaughter Legislation – Morgan

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has said the report published today by the Health and Safety Authority which shows an increase in work place deaths highlights the need to legislate for corporate manslaughter. Read more

Ó Snodaigh condemns Drimnagh shooting

Dublin South Central Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has condemned the shooting of a woman in his constituency this afternoon. Deputy Ó Snodaigh was speaking following the shooting of a woman in Drimnagh today. Read more

Unionists accused of trying block informed education debate

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson, John O’Dowd MLA has accused unionists of trying to block an informed debate on the future of post-primary transfer. Read more

Super-prison should not be developed – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking in the Dáil today on the Prison Development Bill 2008 Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD raised serious concerns about the development of super-prisons in which he said gangs will flourish. Read more

Government must do better than Civil Partnership Bill

Speaking following the Government’s proposal to legislate for Civil Partnerships for same sex couples Sinn Féin Equality Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said the Government must do better to ensure equality for gay and lesbian people. Read more

Ó Snodaigh welcomes Victims Rights Bill 2008

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed the introduction of the Victims’ Rights Bill 2008 in the Dáil this evening. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said the first priority must be crime prevention and community safety in all its aspects. Read more

Kelly committed to equality of opportunity for all

The Office of the First and Deputy First Minister is committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all. That was the message from Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly as he opened a shared and better future an event hosted by the Rainbow Project at Parliament Buildings. Read more

McGuinness condemns murder

Sinn Fein deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness have condemned the murder of a young man last night. Read more

Gildernew meets new Southern Counterpart in Luxembourg

Sinn Féin Farming Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has met with Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (DAFF) Minister Brendan Smith TD in Luxembourg at the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council. Read more

Rights of Irish - medium schools should be respected and supported - Ruane

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has strongly defended the rights of the Irish–medium education sector to receive government support. Read more

Minister confirms route for £57million Armagh link road

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has confirmed the preferred route for the proposed £57million A3 Armagh North and West Link road scheme. Read more

Harney and Lenihan holding up services for disabled people – Ó Caoláin

The Department of Health & Children and the Department of Finance are holding up the provision of residential, respite and day services for disabled people. This has been confirmed by the Health Service Executive in a reply to a Dáil Question from Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó… Read more

Unionists 'Making a huge mistake' - Adams

Speaking on last night's motion on Irish Medium Education the Sinn Féin west Belfast MP MLA Gerry Adams has sharply criticised some unionists of 'irrational hostility' to the 'Irish language, to Irish language speakers, and to children who are being taught through the medium of the Irish language.' Read more

de Brún welcomes Ken Livingstone comments on incineration

Monday, the 23rd of July, saw Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún as theme leader for a thematic session on climate change in the European Parliament in Brussels, with former London Mayor Ken Livingstone as the key speaker. Read more

Funding for Eleventh Night Festival is reward for bigotry

Sinn Féin MLA Paul Butler has accused Lisburn Council of supporting the activities of loyalists, who are determined to intimidate Catholics in Stoneyford, by granting money for an Eleventh night festival in the village. Read more

"Tá sé thar am don DUP éirí as an bpáistiúlacht" - Brolly MLA

Ag caint i ndiaidh rún eile i gcoinne Gaeloideachas agus aitheantas do Gaelscoil na Daróige os comhar an tionól inné dúirt urlabhraí Gaeilge an pháirtí, Francie Brolly. Read more

McLaughlin supports community campaign against Glenavy incinerator proposals

Speaking following a meeting in Crumlin last night (Tuesday 24th June) organised by the Committee against the Rose Energy proposals for a chicken litter waste incinerator in Glenavy Sinn Féin Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has backed the community camaopign. Read more

Thomas O’Reilly elected chairperson of Fermanagh District Council

Sinn Féin councillor, Thomas O' Reilly has spoken of his ‘great pleasure’ after he was elected chairperson of Fermanagh District Council at its monthly meeting on Monday night. Read more

Unionists accused of running scared of rationale debate on education

Sinn Féin Education spokesperson John O’Dowd MLA has accused the DUP of being scared of having a rational debate on the future of post primary education. Mr O’Dowd’s comments come after the continuing refusal of the DUP to discuss education at the Executive and attempts by Nigel Dodds to block… Read more

O'Neill in health fact finding trip to Scotland

Sinn Féin MLA Michelle O'Neill, who is deputy Chairperson of the Assembly Health Committee, is today in Glasgow on a fact finding trip looking at the Mother and Baby Mental Health Unit to see what lessons can be applied to services throughout Ireland. Read more

No need for Garvaghey Road parade

Sinn Féin Upper Bann MLA John O’Dowd speaking after meeting with the Parades Commission has reiterated Sinn Fein view that there is no need for an Orange Order parade down the Garvaghey Road. Read more

Ó Snodaigh calls for extra resource to fight Inner City feud

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has sought a meeting with the Garda Superintendent at Crumlin Garda Station to discuss the escalating feud in the Inner City which resulted in a number of shootings yesterday. Read more

McCann – DSD must work to create new homes

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Fra McCann MLA has expressed concern at the Department for Social Development dependence on buying private ‘off-the-shelf’ housing at full market value as opposed to building new homes that would be significantly cheaper. Read more

Sinn Féin condemn loyalist attack on Catholic home in Stoneyford

Sinn Féin’s Paul Butler has condemned an attack on a Catholic home in Stoneyford, which occurred in the early hours of last Friday morning. He said that this is yet another innocent Catholic family who have been forced to flee their home because of loyalist intimidation. Read more

Towards a United Ireland Campaign in Britain

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA, Party Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald MEP, and Conor Murphy MP MLA, Minister for the Department of Regional Development, are in London today for a series of meetings, including a public meeting tonight in the London Irish Centre in Camden. Read more

Harney playing Pontius Pilate with waiting list figures – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on new figures from the National Treatment Purchase Fund showing over 16,000 adults and children waiting more than three months for surgery and over 2,000 waiting for longer than a year, Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

Taoiseach has failed to walk the walk of Democracy

Speaking during today’s Dáil debate on the recent EU Council of Ministers meeting attended Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh charged the Taoiseach with having “talked the talk of democracy but has failed to walk the walk. He has not accepted the Irish people’s verdict on Lisbon, nor have his… Read more

Government forfeiting of debate on PNR disgraceful

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has described today’s rushing through with no debate of a motion which will instate an Agreement between the European Union and Australia on the processing and transfer of EU-sourced passenger name record (PNR) data as “disgraceful.” Read more

Sinn Féin support Mental Health Bill 2008

Speaking during the Seanad tonight on the Mental Health (Involuntary Procedures) (Amendment) Bill 2008 Sinn Fein Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty gave his support to the Mental Health Bill 2008 Read more

SENO decisions adversely affecting special education needs

Sinn Féin Donegal Senator Pearse Doherty this evening called on the Minister for Education and Science to review a decision made by a Special Education Needs Organiser (SENO) to reduce access to Special Needs Assistants for pupils in schools in Inishowen, Co. Donegal. In addition the Senator demanded that the… Read more

Disbelief at Omagh arson attack

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA Barry Mc Elduff says that there is widespread disbelief and anger in the community at last night’s arson attack at the adult Care Centre at Arvalee in Omagh which caters for people with learning disabilities. Read more

McGuinness presses for relief from oil duty hike

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA will today press the British Government for an assurance that there will be no further increases on fuel excise duty. Read more

Kelly opens seminar on including children and young people in public decision-making

Including children and young people in public decision-making is a vital aspect of the work of government Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly told a seminar in Belfast. Read more

Gildernew presses 'Home Grown' message at M&S meeting

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has met with senior representatives of Marks & Spencer at the new M&S Simply Food store in Cookstown. Read more

Gildernew launches CAP Health Check Consultation

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has launched a consultation on the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Health Check proposals. Read more

Gerry Adams meets Orange Order

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams met with representatives of Portadown Orangemen last week. The meeting came after repeated requests by Mr Adams to meet with the Orange Order to discuss the issue of contentious parades. Read more

Ó Snodaigh gives guarded welcome to Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2008

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2008. However Deputy Ó Snodaigh was critical of the Government’s failure to act on recommendations made by the Strategic Task Force on Alcohol in 2004. Deputy Ó Snodaigh went on to call for the establishment of… Read more

Doherty calls for end to restrictions on Back to Education Allowance

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has called on the Government to end the requirement for people from low and middle income backgrounds to be unemployed for a period of six months before they can avail of the Back to Education Allowance. Read more

Renewable energy must now be put centre stage in Ireland

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that Gordon Brown's comments and the launch of today's announcement on a 'green revolution' consultation should act as a spur for the North of Ireland to put renewable energy centre stage in our economic development plans. Read more

Junior Minister Kelly calls for enhanced role for women in post conflict societies

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has praised the role of women in building peace across the world and stressed the need for them to be empowered to play a full role in building post conflict societies. Read more

Junior Ministers welcome North Belfast MLAs' commitment to interface peace

Sinn Féin Junior Minister Gerry Kelly MLA along with Jeffrey Donaldson has welcomed the statement from North Belfast MLAs calling on young people to ‘Say no to interface violence.’ Read more

Gildernew Announces FNMS early part payment option

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has confirmed the introduction of a part-payment option under the Farm Nutrient Management Scheme (FNMS). Read more

Murphy 'Switches On' electricity supply to Rathlin

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy today officially switched on a new 10.4km subsea electricity cable which extends from Ballycastle to Rathlin Island. Read more

Single Road Safety Strategy for island of Ireland essential

Newry and Armagh Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan, who is vice chair of the Assembly’s Road Safety Committee, has said that whilst news that any driving ban would apply throughout the island of Ireland as well as in England, Scotland and Wales was to be welcomed, it was essential that… Read more

Carna Forest toxic waste dumpers motivated by greed

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has said that those who dumped potentially poisonous toxic waste in the Carna Forest area cared little about the community. Read more

Gildernew hosts Belfast NSMC Meeting

A meeting of the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC), Aquaculture and Marine Sector was held today in the Europa Hotel, Belfast. Read more

LISBON TREATY REJECTION : Papers spin the 'No' vote factors

Article in An Phoblacht by Robbie Smyth analysing recent opinion polls. Read more

Bomb threat against Daithí McKay and North Antrim Sinn Féin activists condemned

A number of telephone threats were made against Sinn Fein’s North Antrim MLA and Policing Board member Daithí McKay, as well as local Sinn Féin Councillor Anita Cavlan and a member of Daithí’s constituency staff. Read more

Moyle Vice Chairperson demands ‘concerted community response’ to racist attack

Vice-Chair of Moyle District Council, Cllr Cara McShane, has demanded “a concerted community response” following the latest blatantly racist attack in the Bushmills area. Read more

Ruane commends schools collaboration on sports facilities

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane today attended the opening of the new state-of the-art sports facility at St Colman’s Primary School in Annaclone, Banbridge. Read more

Rural safe routes to school initiative launched

Every child deserves a safe route to school according to Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA. Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew and Transport Minister Conor Murphy attended the launch of the Rural Safe Routes to School initiative in St Mary’s Primary School, Derrytrasna, County Armagh. Read more

McCann urges residents to be vigilant over stolen PSNI weapon

Sinn Féin west Belfast Assembly member Jennifer McCann has appealed for the people of Poleglass to be 'very vigilant' following the theft of a car, and a handweapon and radio, belonging to a member of the PSNI last night. Read more

Adams congratulates new Bishop

Sinn Féin west Belfast MP Gerry Adams today attended the ordination of Monsignor Noel Treanor in Belfast as the new Bishop of Down and Connor. Read more

Martin McGuinness address to Derry Volunteers Commemoration

Sinn Féin MP and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today addressed the annual Derry Volunteers Commemoration. During the course of his speech Mr McGuinness referred to the brutal murder of Emmett Shields in the city this week and he had a clear message for those small micro groups still involved… Read more

Mary Lou McDonald to meet senior politicians in France as Nicolas Sarkozy takes over EU Presidency

Mary Lou McDonald will attend a press conference at 11.30am tomorrow (Tues 1st July) in the Assemblée Nationale, Bureau No. 1, 3 Rue Aristide Briand, Paris 7°. Among those attending the press conference will be Jean-Luc Mélenchon French Socialist Senator, and President of Pour la République Sociale (PRS), PS member… Read more

McGuinness - Devolution of policing and justice must happen

Sinn Féin Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness today said that the devolution of policing and justice powers to the Assembly had to happen and happen quickly. Mr McGuinness’ remarks came after Peter Robinson spoke on the on the issue this morning. Read more

McLaughlin appeals for information about sexual assault on 13 year-old-girl

South Antrim MLA, Mitchel McLaughlin has appealed for the 17 year old youth being sought in connection with a serious sexual assault on a 13 year old girl in South Antrim to hand himself into the PSNI. Read more

Loyalist Flags in Armagh Mall undermines good community relations

Sinn Féin Mayor of Armagh City and District Council Noel Sheridan has said the flying of Loyalist UVF and UDA flags and emblems on the Mall in Armagh City has disgusted and angered many. Read more

Sinn Féin meet PSNI regarding Parade and Anti-Social problems in Keady

Local Sinn Féin representatives, Cathal Boylan, MLA and Councillor Darren McNally have met with the Parades Commission and the PSNI in recent weeks in an effort to resolve a contentious annual parade in Keady. Read more

Credit Unions should be allowed to offer greater Financial Services – McLaughlin

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has called on Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster to respond to the ongoing financial crisis by removing the barriers that prevent them Credit Union from offering a greater range of Financial Services. Read more

Maskey critical of flawed appointments process at Hospitality Association

A highly critical Public Accounts Committee report on the Hospitality Association NI (HANI), published today, condemns the way that two departments – Employment and Learning and Culture, Arts and Leisure – managed both the financial control and public appointments processes. Read more

Sinn Féin to nominate Ní Dhálaigh for Mayor of Dublin

Sinn Féin announced today that they will be proposing Councillor Críona Ní Dhálaigh for Mayor of Dublin at the City Council meeting tonight. Read more

June 2008 Archives (Latest News)

June 1, 2008

June 2, 2008

June 3, 2008

June 4, 2008

June 5, 2008

June 6, 2008

June 7, 2008

June 8, 2008

June 9, 2008

June 10, 2008

June 11, 2008