December 2008 Archives (Latest News)

Brolly condemns attacks on cars in Limavady.

Sinn Féin's Francie Brolly MLA (East Derry) has condemned a series of attacks on cars in the Limavady area at the weekend. Read more

World Aids Day reminds us all of the need to act - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson and vice-chair of the Assembly’s Health Committee, Michele O’Neil MLA speaking today, World Aids Day, has called on the Executive and Assembly to play their part in increasing awareness and assisting those sufferers of HIV/Aids. Read more

O’Dowd calls for speedy re-opening of Portadown Primary School

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson John O’Dowd has called for a speedy reopening of Presentation Primary School in Thomas Street, Portadown, following a suspicious fire in the early hours of Sunday morning. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome increase in younger people getting on the register

Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay, the youngest MLA, has welcomed news today indicating an increase in the number of 17 years olds getting on the electoral register and said that this is a sign of young people’s increasing desire to effect change within society. Read more

Anger at SDLP move to weaken nationalist representation on new Council body

Sinn Féin Councillor Padraig McShane has accused the SDLP of attacking the rights of nationalists to fair representation on the new body set up to oversee the transition to the new Causeway Coast Council that incorporates Coleraine, Ballymoney, Limavady and Moyle councils. Read more

Students are working together in a world class establishment - Ruane

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitríona Ruane today attended the official opening of Holy Cross College in Strabane. Read more

75% of nursing staff at St. Luke’s under threat - Boylan

Sinn Féin Armagh MLA Cathal Boylan has said that 75% of nursing staff at St Luke’s Hospital are under threat and he has called on all local stake holders, family members and the general public to fully participate in the 12 week consultation period which starts on the 10th of… Read more

Sinn Féin meeting with PSNI in Armagh ‘constructive’

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP Conor Murphy and Cathal Boylan MLA have met with Assistant Chief Constable Judith Gillespie and Chief Inspector Mawhinney, local police commander in Armagh City and District. Read more

RTÉ facilitates British Army recruitment in Ireland – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin spokesperson on International Affairs Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has said that Irish neutrality and sovereignty are being violated by the active recruitment of young Irishmen into the British Army. He said it was disgraceful that this was being facilitated by some media outlets, including RTÉ, The Irish Times… Read more

RTÉ facilitates British Army recruitment in Ireland – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin spokesperson on International Affairs Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has said that Irish neutrality and sovereignty are being violated by the active recruitment of young Irishmen into the British Army. He said it was disgraceful that this was being facilitated by some media outlets, including RTÉ, The Irish Times… Read more

Sinn Féin back Student Fee protest‏

Sinn Féin Derry City Councillor Gerry MacLochlainn has called on people to support the protest by students against rising student fees tomorrow, Tuesday 2nd December, at the Ulster University Magee Campus Student Union. Read more

Invest NI Review welcomed but it must address fundamental failures

Sinn Féin MLA and Deputy Chair of the Assembly Committee for Enterprise, Trade & Investment Jennifer McCann has welcomed ETI Minister Arlene Foster’s announcement of an Independent review of economic development Policy of both DETI and Invest NI. Read more

Save the Children event highlights impact of fuel poverty – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MLA and the party’s spokesperson on poverty Clare McGill has welcomed the report from Save the Children which was launched in the Long Gallery Stormont today, highlighting the very real impact that fuel poverty is having on children and young people. Read more

Scale of pensions crisis of the Government’s own making – Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has said the scale of the crisis arising out of the devaluation of private pension funds is of the Government’s making. Read more

Border businesses need action by government on VAT differential

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson's Arthur Morgan TD and Mitchel McLaughlin MLA have again today called for the harmonisation of VAT across the island of Ireland. Responding to the north's VAT drop to 15% which comes into effect from today Deputy Morgan said "if Brian Lenihan and his Fianna Fáil colleagues… Read more

Belfast Hosts Bus Rapid Transit Conference

Just days after Transport Minister Conor Murphy and the Executive gave Rapid Transit the go ahead, transport specialists from Europe have gathered in Belfast. Read more

Call for health Minister to abolish hospital parking charges – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Mid Ulster MLA and Deputy Chair of the Assembly Health Committee Michelle O’Neil has called for the Minister for Health, Michael McGimpsey to act on abolishing car parking charges within hospitals in the North. Read more

Waiting times for work in patients homes must be tackled – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin west Belfast MLA and member of the Assembly Health Committee Sue Ramsey has called on the Assembly to support and motion from Sinn Féin scheduled for tomorrow (Tuesday 2nd) calling on the Minister for health to, Read more

Special Branch Securocrats attempting to assassinate Rosemary Nelson’s character

Sinn Féin Assembly member for Upper Bann John O’Dowd has branded attempts by a faceless British securocrat to slander the memory of murdered Lurgan solicitor Rosemary Nelson as ‘outrageous’. Mr O’Dowd’s comments came after a former RUC man hiding behind the cloak of anonymity alleged without a shred of evidence… Read more

Developers owe €1/2m to Dublin City Council - Doolan

Sinn Fein's Dublin Spokesperson on the Environment & Local Government, Councillor Daithí Doolan, has slammed, "developers who still owe Dublin City Council over €500,000 in Development Levies." Read more

Progress on £5.5 million investment in Dungannon area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed progress on investment totalling £5.5Million for maintenance and local transport and safety measures in the Dungannon area this year. Read more

Progress on £5.8 million investment in Armagh area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy, has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £5.8million in the Armagh City and District Council area this year. Read more

Progress on £7.2 million investment in Lisburn area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £7.2million in the Lisburn City Council area this year. Read more

Progress on £4.2 million investment in Banbridge area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £4.2million in the Banbridge District Council area this year. Read more

Progress on £2.3 million investment in Larne area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £2.3million in the Larne Council area this year. Read more

EPA granting of incinerator licence a "travesty" says local councillor

Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Daithí Doolan has described the Environmental Protection Agency's decision to grant a licence for the building of an incinerator at Ringsend as a "travesty" which, he said, "would not be accepted by the local community". He went on call on the Minister for the Environment… Read more

Independent Broadway underpass flooding report published

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, today welcomed an initial independent report into the flooding incident on 16 August 2008 at the Broadway Underpass. Read more

Young Children denied free swimming by ‘selfish councillors’

Sinn Féin Newry and Mourne Councillor Brendan Curran has said that many people will be angry that Councillors, who get free use of both Newry and Kilkeel swimming pools, have denied that same facility to children. Read more

Minister warned of attempted murder plot

Sinn Féin MP for Newry and Armagh Conor Murphy has revealed that the PSNI have advised him that a unionist paramilitary gang attempted to murder him over the weekend. Read more

Policing Budget

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA and Policing Board member Daithí McKay has welcomed the resolution to the funding shortfall facing policing in the current financial year. Read more

50 minutes to respond to Emergency call out unacceptable - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Strabane Councillor Kieran McGuire says that continuing gaps in emergency ambulance cover in the Western Board Area were exposed once again yesterday when it took 50 minutes for an ambulance crew to get to the scene of emergency call out in the Aghyaran area outside Castlederg. Read more

"Selling Alcohol Cheaper than Bottled Water Is Irresponsible" Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Michelle O'Neill MLA (Mid-Ulster has described research findings that some supermarkets are selling alcohol 'cheaper than water' as 'totally irresponsible'. Read more

Selling Alcohol cheaper than bottled water is irresponsible

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Michelle O'Neill MLA (Mid-Ulster) has described research findings that some supermarkets are selling alcohol 'cheaper than water' as 'totally irresponsible'. Read more

de Brún welcomes EU funding move on energy and houses

Sinn Féin's Regional Development MEP Bairbre de Brún has welcomed moves by the European Commission to allow EU funds be used for energy-efficiency projects in low-income housing. Read more

Conor Murphy and Mickey Brady to join the Simon Community for Charity Sleep out

Local Sinn Féin Assembly Members, Conor Murphy and Mickey Brady have called for support for Thursday’s sleep out in aid of the Simon community. This follows an announcement on Monday by the Department of Social Development that the number of homeless people in the North has risen to 9500. Read more

Lough Neagh death - Molloy offers condolences

Mid Ulster MLA Francie Molloy has extended his deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of the man whose body was recovered today in the Lough Neagh. Read more

John Gormley turns his back on the people of Dublin

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has today slammed Environment Minister John Gormley for nonchalantly overseeing government incineration policy that the people of the city have said time and time again they do not want. Read more

Shock at PSNI stop and search statistics – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin North Antrim MLA and Policing Board member Daithí McKay has expressed his deep shock at figures obtained from the Board’s Human Right’s committee which indicates that Irish Travellers and members of the Black community are 5 and 6 times more likely to be stopped than, what the reports… Read more

Challenges and opportunities in identifying new team to lead PSNI reform

Commenting on the news that PSNI Chief Constable Hugh Orde has applied to become the new Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sinn Féin Policing Board member Alex Maskey has said that changes at the top management level of the PSNI bring challenges and opportunities in identifying the new team who will drive… Read more

Government should mark Traveller Focus Week by recognising their distinct ethnicity – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Human Rights Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD called on the Government to mark Traveller Focus Week by reversing its policy of non recognition of travellers as a distinct ethnic group. Read more

Gormley must seek reversal of EPA’s decision on Poolbeg Incinerator – Ferris

Speaking in the Dáil this afternoon Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson Martin Ferris called on the Minister for the Environment John Gormley to explain how the decision of the Environmental Protection Agency to grant a license for the building of an incinerator on the Poolbeg Peninsula could possibly contribute to the… Read more

Aer Lingus Early Retirement Package will join employees to troubled defined benefit pension scheme – Morgan

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has called on the Minister for Transport to review Aer Lingus’ decision to implement an early retirement package, which will join more employees to their defined benefit pension scheme at a time when it is reported that thousands of these schemes are… Read more

de Brún says Executive must take advantage of Commissioner's "Recovery Plan"

The Executive must grasp the new opportunities for early access to EU funding announced today by Commissioner Huebner according to Sinn Féin Regional Development MEP Bairbre de Brún. Read more

Finance Minister gets tax take projections wrong, again!

Responding to Exchequer figures released this afternoon which show a further decline in tax take showing an €7.5 billion deficit and a €1 billion shortfall to date in the government’s projected figures for 2008 Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has described the governments management of the economy as… Read more

All agriculture related budget cutbacks should be reversed – Ferris

Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has called for all budget cuts related to agriculture to be reversed during a debate in the Dáil this evening. Deputy Ferris was debating a private members’ motion for the reintroduction of the Installation Aid Grant for young farmers and the Early Retirement… Read more

Progress on £5.2 million investment in Derry area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £5.2million in the Derry City Council area this year. Read more

'Don't suffer in silence over debt' - Martina Anderson MLA

Foyle Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has urged people experiencing debt problems not to ‘suffer in silence’. Read more

Junior Minister Gerry Kelly calls for dignity and human rights for persons with disabilities

Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has called for a greater understanding of disability issues during a keynote address to mark this year's International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Read more

Still no job creation strategy from Government as unemployment rate increases to 7.8% - Morgan

Speaking today as the latest live register figures showed that a further 16,900 people have signed on in the past month bringing the unemployment rate to 7.8% Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson said the Government is continuing to sleep walk through an economic crisis. Read more

De Brún to vote against EU- Israel Association Agreement

Sinn Fein MEP Bairbre de Brún has stated that she will be voting against the EU- Israel Association Agreement proposal which will be placed in front of the European Parliament tomorrow. The agreement would see the strengthening of ties between Israel and the EU despite Israel’s denial of basic human… Read more

Sinn Féin MLAs to attend European Affairs Committee meeting

Sinn Féin MLAs Martina Anderson, Barry McElduff and Francie Molloy and TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh will attend today’s meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs and a Committee for the Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister in the Northern Assembly. Read more

Gildernew expresses sympathy to fisherman's family

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA, has extended her deepest sympathy and condolences to the family of Martin Wylie who drowned in Lough Neagh. Read more

Lisburn Council accused of squandering ratepayer’s money

Lagan Valley MLA and Lisburn councillor Paul Butler, accusing the council of “squandering” up to a million pounds of rate payers money to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Lisburn’s existence. Read more

Greater emphasis must be placed on rights for the disabled - Sinn Fein

Sinn Fein MLA Michelle O Neill has called for greater emphasis to be placed upon the provision of rights and entitlements of people with disabilities. Speaking to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities Ms O Neill said: Read more

Proposals to further downgrade Strabane Social Security Office services must be vigorously opposed - Doherty

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP MLA Pat Doherty says that proposals in the Social Security Agency’s Strategic Review Consultation in regards to Strabane’s Social Security Office would have far reaching and detrimental consequences not only for staff at the Urney Road office but for benefit claimants throughout the entire District. Read more

Job losses feared at Derry DHSS Office

The people of Derry should be informed how a proposed review of the benefits system will affect not just claimants but jobs here, local Sinn Féin MLA Martina Anderson has insisted. Read more

Government has serious questions to answer on their failure to deliver quality, high speed and affordable broadband

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty has described today's report on broadband speeds by Epitiro Internet monitoring firm as only the tip of the iceberg in terms of the poor delivery of broadband across the state. He said 'It is totally unacceptable that companies are not providing the broadband speeds that… Read more

International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has called for greater emphasis to be placed upon the provision of rights and entitlements of people with disabilities. Read more

Government preparing the ground for the re-running of the Lisbon Treaty referendum

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has challenged Taoiseach Brian Cowen in advance of today's meetings with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Prime Minister of Luxembourg Jean-Claude Juncker over the Irish government's failure to properly address the concerns of the Irish electorate over the Lisbon Treaty. Read more

Progress on £3.8 million investment in Coleraine area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £3.8million in the Coleraine Council area this year. Read more

European Parliament will not vote to upgrade relations with Israel

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has hailed the decision of the European Parliament today to postpone the vote for the foreseeable future on the EU proposal to upgrade relations between the EU and Israel. Read more

Assembly and Oireachtas should work together on EU Scrutiny – Anderson

Sinn Féin MLAs Martina Anderson, Barry McElduff and Francie Molloy and Dublin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh today took part in a meeting of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs and the Assembly Committee of the Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister. Read more

Government attacking the vulnerable not protecting them

Speaking in the Dáil today on the Social Welfare Bill Arthur Morgan argued that despite the Government’s repeated claims of protecting the vulnerable, the government is in reality targeting them with penny pinching cuts that are unfair and damaging to wider Irish society. Read more

Leonard slams Ulster Unionist U-turn on Ringsend dumps

Sinn Féin councillor Billy Leonard has heavily criticised the Ulster Unionists for attempting to go back on a May 2008 decision that Council land at Letterloan Road should not be used for a waste management site. Read more

Dissolution of Combat Poverty – more unfair Fianna Fáil/Green Party decision making

Speaking during a Dáil debate today on the Social Welfare Bill Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Social and Family Affairs Arthur Morgan TD described the dissolution of the Combat Poverty Agency by government as “a dishonest and cowardly move, which will silence an independent voice on the causes of poverty at… Read more

PSNI need to state very clearly who is responsible for pipe bombs finds

Sinn Féin MLA for South Belfast Alex Maskey has stated that the PSNI need to state very clearly who is behind the manufacturing and use of the pipe bombs that were found beside a play park in south Belfast today. This is the latest in a series of bomb discoveries… Read more

Sinn Féin to host health sector consultation exercise at Stormont

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Michelle O'Neill MLA (Mid-Ulster) has announced that Sinn Féin will host a major health sector consultation in Stormont tomorrow, Thursday the 4th of November at 9.30- 1.00pm. Major providers of care and frontline services along with unions will be attending the event. Read more

"Caithfidh muid beartas éifeachtach a fháil ón Aire Chultúir" – Mac Giolla Duibh

Dúirt an BTR Barra Mac Giolla Duibh inniu go 'beartas éifeachtach' de dhíth ó Gregory Campbell i dtaca leis an Ghaeilge agus an Straitéis Teanga do na Sé Chontae. Read more

“We must receive an effective policy from the Culture Minister” – McElduff

Sinn Féin MLA Barry McElduff has today called for an ‘effective policy’ from Gregory Campbell in relation to the Irish Language and a language strategy for the Six Counties. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome All Ireland operation against human trafficking.

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry Mickey Brady has welcomed the moves by the PSNI and An Garda Siochana in an operation targeting a human trafficking gang operating on the island of Ireland. Read more

A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR ST CECILIA’S AND ST MARY’S IN DERRY CITY – RUANE

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has welcomed the signing of a £38 million capital contract to provide two new girls’ colleges in Derry City. Read more

Boylan warns of mail / phone scam

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh, Cathal Boylan, has been made aware of a ‘mail scam’ being perpetrated by fraudsters and wishes to high light it to the general public. Read more

Cowen colluding with EU to push Lisbon re-run

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has today charged Taoiseach Brian Cowen with colluding with EU leaders to push a re-run of the Lisbon Treaty next year. The Dublin MEP was responding to comments made by German Chancellor Angela Merkel in the German lower house of Parliament following her… Read more

Maskey slams those responsible for dumping grenade near family homes in Andersonstown

Sinn Féin MLA for West Belfast, Paul Maskey, has slammed those responsible for leaving a grenade at Tullymore Walk in the Andersonstown area. Read more

Government must ensure moratorium on mortgage repayments for duration of Guarantee Scheme – Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD today called on the Government to ensure that no foreclosures take place on properties of people who get into financial difficulties as a result of the economic downturn for the duration of the Guarantee Scheme with the banks which is two years. Read more

Sinn Féin health sector consultation exercise at Stormont a massive success.

Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson, Michelle O'Neill MLA (Mid-Ulster) hosted Sinn Féin a major health sector consultation in Stormont today, Thursday the 4th of November at 9.30- 1.00pm. Major providers of care and frontline services along with unions will be attended the event. Read more

McLaughlin calls for public inquiry into Belfast City extension

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called for a public inquiry into the proposed runway extension at Belfast City Airport. Read more

Caithfidh an AE coinnigh lena coimitmintí ar athrú aeráid: de Brún

Ag caint di inniu sa mBrúisiél le linn díospoireacht ar athrú aeráide, dúirt an BPE Bairbre de Brún nár chóir don tAE géilleadh ar gealtanais s'acu. Read more

EU must keep climate commitments: de Brún

Sinn Féin Climate Change MEP Bairbre de Brún speaking in Brussels today during a debate on EU Climate Change Policy has stated that the EU must not back down on it climate commitments. Read more

ECB interest rate cut must be passed onto mortgage holders immediately

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has called on the Government to ensure that banks and local authorities immediately pass on the full benefit of the cut in the European Central Bank interest rate to mortgage holders throughout the state. Read more

Mary Lou outlines five key demands to tackle domestic violence

As part of Sinn Féin's ongoing campaign against Domestic Violence and in support of the International 16-Day Campaign on Violence against Women Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald and a group of party activists distributed postcards at St. Stephen's Green today which outline the party's five demands for tackling domestic violence. Read more

British government need to deal with loyalist arms - Ní Chuilín

Speaking today as the British government extended the deadline for the IICD remit for another year, Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast, Carál Ní Chuilín said that dealing with the issue of loyalist weaponry is a legacy issue for the British government to tackle. Read more

Where is Europe going?

Sinn Féin EU East Candidate Cllr. Tómas Sharkey this afternoon took part in an international panel discussion entitled 'Where is Europe going?' hosted by Europe Direct. Read more

Sinn Féin meet with Phoenix gas

Sinn Fein MLA’s, including Mitchell McLaughlin, Jennifer McCann, Fra McCann and Claire Magill have met with representatives of Phoenix gas to raise a number of concerns surrounding the current energy price crisis. On the agenda were numerous ways to help the Phoenix Gas customers with the current economic difficulties many… Read more

Electricity price must drop following review of 33.3% price hike - Sinn Féin

Sinn Fein MLA and Deputy Chair of the Committee for Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Jennifer McCann has called on the Utility Regulator to lower electricity prices immediately following the outcome of today’s review into the recent severe price hikes. Read more

Spotlight on UN Climate Change Conference

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún will speak at the ‘Ring the changes on climate - countdown to Copenhagen’ event organised by Friends of the Earth at St Anne’s Cathedral tomorrow, Saturday 6th December, before travelling to Poland to participate in the UN Climate Change Conference in PoznaÅ„, Poland. Read more

O'Keeffe must reverse all education cuts - Doherty

Speaking today on the decision by the Minister for Education and Science to reverse his budget decision to cut all substitute cover in secondary schools, Sinn Féin Senator and education spokesperson Pearse Doherty has said that it is time for Minister O'Keeffe to go back to his books and do… Read more

Health Bill will be opposed

Reiterating Sinn Féin's opposition to the legislation published today (Friday) abolishing the automatic medical entitlement of over 70s, the party's Health Spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

“Ní mór do Gregory Campbell a thuiscint gur Aire é do lucht labhartha na Gaeilge fosta” – McElduff

Tá díomá curtha in iúl ag Barry McElduff, Comhalta Tionóil de chuid Sinn Féin agus Cathaoirleach Choiste Cultúir, Ealaíon agus Fóillíochta sa Tionól maidir leis an pháipéar a d’ullmhaigh an tAire Cultúir, Gregory Campbell, ar ‘straitéis mhionteangacha agus teangacha réigiúnacha’ don Tuaisceart. Read more

"Gregory Campbell must realise he is a Minister for all, that includes Irish speakers" – McElduff

"Sinn Féin MLA and Chair of the Assembly Culture Arts and Leisure Committee Barry McElduff has expressed his disappointment at the paper brought forward by Culture Minister Gregory Campbell on a 'regional and minorities language strategy' for the North. Read more

Lenihan must ensure that all banks pass on mortgage rate cut – Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has called on Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan to ensure that all banks to pass on to customers the full interest rate cut announced by the European Central Bank yesterday. Read more

It's time to invest in education - reverse the cuts

Speaking at today's INTO rally against the education cuts imposed by the government in Budget 2009 Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald called on Education Minister Batt O'Keeffe to have the humility and common sense to reverse the cuts and put in place a programme of investment into Ireland's… Read more

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams address Ógra Shinn Féin National Congress held today in Cork

For several weeks now the Taoiseach has been meeting with EU leaders to outline to them the government's roadmap in relation to the Lisbon Treaty. It is worth nothing that the discussions have been about their plans to overturn the peoples' verdict on the Lisbon Treaty at the behest of… Read more

de Brún speaks at Friends of the Earth ‘Ring the changes on climate - countdown to Copenhagen’ event

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún speaking at the ‘Ring the changes on climate - countdown to Copenhagen’ event organised by Friends of the Earth at St Anne’s Cathedral today, Saturday 6th December, has said that the Executive integrated strategy on adapting to Climate Change and to set out how… Read more

Ferris Questions Haulbowline Report

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on the Environment, Martin Ferris TD has questioned whether the report on the level of threat posed by buried waste at Haulbowline has fully explored all aspects of the issue. And whether all the relevant previous reports, including one showing high levels of cancer in the area… Read more

“Ritchie must work to lift ban on ‘supporting people’ programme” – McCann

Sinn Féin MLA for west Belfast, Fra Mc Cann, has written to the Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie, asking her to lift the inflationary freeze imposed by her department on groups delivering the Supporting People programme. Read more

Ferris: Government needs to protect pig sector jobs

Speaking in reaction to the withdrawal of pig meat from retail outlets the Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has said that the priority now must be to ensure that the sector is not damaged in such a manner as to threaten the many farm livelihoods and jobs… Read more

East Wall murder an outrageous crime against the community

Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Christy Burke has described the murder of a man in East Wall last night as an "outrageous crime against the community." While expressing his sympathy to the family of Aidan Kane Cllr. Burke went on to say that local residents had been crying out for… Read more

Supermarkets must do more to tackle alcohol abuse - Ramsey

Sinn Féin MLA’s Sue Ramsey, Jennifer McCann and Fra McCann today met with representatives of the Federation of the Retail Licensing Trade in order to examine ways in which to curtail underage drinking and the increased availability of cheap alcohol in our local communities. Read more

Sinn Féin invite all to Cost of Living public meeting

A public meeting aimed at providing advice and guidance to those who are facing financial difficulties or have worries about the current economic climate will take place in An Chulturlann on Tuesday 9 December at 7pm. The event, organised by West Belfast Sinn Fein, will feature contributions from Eleanor Gill… Read more

Statement from Minister Gildernew on contaminated pig feed

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew has confirmed that to date nine farms in the north have been identified as having used the dioxin contaminated pig feed. Read more

McLaughlin supports residents demand for public inquiry into Belfast City extension

Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has stated his support for East and South Belfast residents demand for a public inquiry into the proposed runway extension at Belfast City Airport. Read more

Government needs to rebuild consumer confidence in pork products

Sinn Féin North West EU Candidate Cllr. Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has this afternoon called on Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith to minimise the damaging affect to livelihoods and jobs dependent on the pig-farming sector following the weekend's recall of all Irish pork products. The Donegal Councillor also called on the Minister… Read more

Educational Skill Authority an important step in modernising our education system

Sinn Féin Education spokesperson John O’ Dowd MLA has said the Educational Skill Authority is an important step in modernising our education system. Read more

Sinn Fein welcomes Community Platform Report – A Better Ireland is Possible

Speaking after the launch of a report by the Community Platform entitled, 'A Better Ireland is Possible, towards an alternative vision for Ireland' today, Sinn Fein spokesperson on the economy Arthur Morgan welcomed the publication saying that, “faced with the ongoing failure of government economic policy to meet the needs… Read more

Ó Snodaigh publishes legislation to protect Human Rights Commission

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Human Rights Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has published a Bill entitled Human Rights Commission (Amendment) Bill 2008 which seeks to protect the Human Rights Commission from budgetary assaults and to ensure that its status reflects the overwhelming public endorsement of it articulated by… Read more

Margaret Ritchie must give clear and definitive timescale for social housing delivery in South Down.

Sinn Féin MLA Willie Clarke has called on the Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie to give a clear and definitive timescale for new build social housing projects in the South Down Area. Read more

Assembly supports new Education Authority

The establishment of the Education and Skills Authority (ESA) has moved a step closer with the second stage of the Education Bill receiving Assembly support. Read more

Progress on £5.1 million investment in Down area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £5.1million in the Down District Council area this year. Read more

Event honouring Oireachtas women members an important reminder of the vision and hope of 1918

Speaking in advance of today's special Oireachtas lunch honouring the women elected to the Dáil and Seanad since 1918 Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has commended Senator Ivana Bacik on the initiative. Read more

Sinn Féin calls for public inquiry into proposed City Airport extension

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey and the Party's East Belfast representative Niall Ó Donnghaile have expressed their support for the call by the 'Belfast City Airport Watch' group for a public inquiry into the proposed runway extension at Belfast City Airport. Read more

Those responsible for pipe bomb show no regard for local community

Sinn Féin Councillor for West Belfast Gerard O Neill has stated today that those responsible for leaving a pipe bomb at a home in Lenadoon need to realise that the community does not want these type of attacks to occur and that they need to stop. Read more

Sinn Fein in London for Westminster briefings

Sinn Fein MP and Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy will be in London today and Wednesday, for a series of engagements in Westminster. Read more

de Brún at UN Climate Change Conference

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún, who is a member of the European Parliament Environment Committee and the Temporary Committee on Climate Change, will participate all week in the UN Climate Change Conference in Poznan, Poland, as part of the European Parliament delegation. Read more

Ó Snodaigh launches Bill to protect Human Rights Commission from Budgetary assaults

Sinn Féin Justice and Human Rights Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD today launched and called for all party support for the Human Rights Commission (Amendment) Bill 2008. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said he drafted the Bill to protect the status of the commission and called on the Government to adopt it… Read more

Gildernew sets course for way ahead in TB fight

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has today made a statement to the Assembly outlining a new strategic approach to deal with TB in cattle in the North. Read more

Gregory Campbell needs to focus on acting as a Minister – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA and chairperson of the Culture, Arts and Leisure Committee Barry McElduff has criticised Minister Gregory Campbell for continually focusing on issues with little relevance or significance for people living here. Read more

Finance Bill will only make matters worse – Morgan

Speaking at a meeting of the Oireachtas Finance and Public Services Committee today Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD described the Finance Bill as short sighted and said it will do nothing to address our catastrophic public finances. Read more

Government should bow to public pressure and reverse savage education cuts – Ó Caoláin

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin called for the immediate reversal of the savage cuts in education after the massive public support of up to 60,000 people at the rally against the cuts on Saturday. Read more

Over 1,200 licensed firearms stolen by criminals in last five years – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has called for legislation to be introduced to tighten gun control laws in the state. Speaking in the Dáil today about the shooting dead of Aidan Kane on Sunday night Deputy Ó Snodaigh revealed that over 1,200 legally held firearms have fallen… Read more

Support for carbon neutral motion – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA and Environment spokesperson Daithí McKay has today welcomed a motion in the Assembly today calling for all buildings used by the assembly to become carbon neutral by the year 2015. Read more

Cuirtear fáilte roimh chothú na Gaeilge ag an Aire Forbartha Reigiúnaí Conor Murphy

Chuir Paul Butler, ball de chuid Sinn Féin, fáilte roimh chothú na Gaeilge atá ar bun ag Conor Murphy ar fud a roinne trí Chairt Eorpach ar Mhionteangacha nó Teangacha Reigiúnacha a chur i ngníomh. Is ionann seo agus aithint a thabhairt do chearta lucht labhartha na Gaeilge sa Tuaisceart.… Read more

Welcome for promotion of Irish Language by DRD Minister Conor Murphy

Sinn Fein's Paul Butler has welcomed Conor Murphy's promotion of the Irish language throughout his department by implementing the European Charter on Regional or Miniority Languages. Read more

Spotlight must be kept on abuses of foreign workers following Filipino fishers abuse revelations.

Sinn Fein MLA and member of the Policing Board Alex Maskey has slammed the treatment on Filipino Fishermen calling it archaic and indentured labour in many cases. He has further called for a spotlight to be kept upon the treatment of foreign workers who face exploitation. Read more

Ferris questions Government reaction to discovery of contamination of pig feed

Speaking in the Dáil today on the recall of Irish pork and bacon products Sinn Féin Agriculture Martin Ferris TD questioned whether the Government over-reacted to the discovery of the contamination. Read more

Sinn Féin to meet Electoral Office over registration concerns

Sinn Féin Vice President Pat Doherty MP MLA will meet the Electoral Office and its’ Chief Executive Douglas Bain tomorrow, Wednesday 10th December 2008, at 10.30am to raise concerns about barriers that are stopping people coming onto the live electoral register. Read more

Sinn Féin Slam bomb hoax at Cookstown office

Sinn Fein MLA for Mid Ulster Francie Molloy has slammed the bomb hoax at the Sinn Féin Cookstown constituency office. A call was received this morning informing staff of a bomb being left out the back of the office. Read more

Lisbon No Vote will make its voice heard at next years European elections

Speaking during tonight’s Dáil debate on the Report of the Oireachtas Committee on Ireland’s future in the European Union Deputy Ó Snodaigh said “The Irish people voted for a better deal and that deal should have been delivered by this government. I believe that the almost one million people who… Read more

Ó Caoláin calls for compensation for producers and processors of pork and bacon products

Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Cavan/Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called for full compensation for producers and processors of pork and bacon products who are facing financial ruin due to the current pig meat crisis. Speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Ó Caoláin said the crisis has already had… Read more

Morgan supports Dáil motion on inflation and calls on Government to develop all island economy

Speaking in the Dáil this evening on a private members’ motion on inflation Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD said increases in heating, fuel costs and daily living expenses have had a severe effect on working families on low and middle incomes. Read more

Gildernew updates Assembly on contaminated feed issue

In answer to a Priority Notice question in the Assembly today, Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew has said that the FSA has advised that there is no risk from pork or pork products containing only pork from the North and processing has now resumed at our pork factories. Read more

Progress on £3.5 million investment in Magherafelt

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed progress on investment totalling £3.5million for maintenance and local transport and safety measures in the Magherafelt area this year and has also taken the opportunity to provide an update on the A6 dualling project and Magherafelt Bypass. Read more

Concern at Ritchie plan to give NIE £13 million

Sinn Féin Social Development Spokesperson, North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has expressed concern at reports that the Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie is proposing to give NIE £13 million as part of her response to the fuel poverty crisis. Read more

Processors Must Resume Production Immediately

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has called on pig processors to resume production. He said that there was no reason why the factories should not immediately take back on workers who have been temporarily laid off or for their refusal to process the animals being delivered to… Read more

“Questions must be asked of FSA response” – Pat Doherty

Sinn Féin MP and Agricultural spokesperson Pat Doherty has expressed concern about the co-ordination of communication from the Food Standards Agency to the relevant Government departments following news of potential contamination to farm produce in the North. Read more

Rural Planning - PPS 21Consultation - Make Your Voice Heard

Joint Chairperson of the Sinn Féin National Councillors Forum (NCF), Magherafelt Sinn Féin councillor Sean McPeake has called on everyone living in rural communities to make their voices heard in relation to new proposals on Rural Planning. Read more

Sinn Féin challenge government on plans to re-run Lisbon

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald this morning challenged the Taoiseach in advance of this weeks EU Council meeting during which it is expected that he will announce his intention to re-run the Lisbon Treaty. Ms McDonald has accused the Taoiseach of sitting on his hands for the last… Read more

Kelly welcomes energy producing use for North Belfast landfill

Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast Gerry Kelly has welcomed the fact that electricity is be produced from a former landfill site on the North Foreshore in North Belfast. The plan to develop a network of pipes to gather methane from the site to produce electricity will see a reduction… Read more

UN Climate Change update - Climate package and financial crisis feature high during Poznan talks

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún (Ireland) and GUE/NGL colleague Roberto Musacchio (Italy) have been participating in discussions at the UN climate change conference in Poznan since the beginning of this week with representatives from NGOs, political movements, the European Commission and the United Nations. Read more

Environment Minister doctors housing list figures – reality much worse

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has today charged Environment Minister John Gormley of doctoring housing figures released by his department in an effort to hide the depth of the country’s housing crisis. The Deputy was responding to figures released under the Department’s three-yearly ‘real needs’ estimated housing… Read more

Cowen must push for establishment of All-Ireland Consultative Forum – Ó Caoláin

Speaking in the Dáil this morning Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD called on the Taoiseach Brian Cowen to use every urgency in bringing forward the establishment of the All-Ireland Consultative Forum agreed as part of the Good Friday Agreement and endorsed by the popular vote of the… Read more

Ministers step up pressure for action on Export Refunds

Pressure was stepped up today on Defra Minister Mr Hilary Benn MP to be pro-active with the European Commission by requesting the re-introduction of export refunds for dairy products. Read more

Sinn Féin comments on Bill of Rights advice

Foyle Sinn Féin, MLA, Martina Anderson, has welcomed the next stage of the Bill of Rights process as the Human Rights Commission finally made its recommendations on what the new legislation should contain. The HRC advice was handed over to the British secretary of state, on International Human Rights Day… Read more

Tackling underachievement is a priority – Ruane

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has said that tackling educational underachievement is a key priority for the North South Ministerial Council. Read more

Proposed benefit changes are not a ‘fair deal’ for vulnerable people.

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh and party spokesperson on welfare issues, Mickey Brady, has slammed the current proposals that the British Government are attempting to bring forward with regards to benefit changes. Read more

Cause of botulism cluster must be investigated – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has expressed concern at a significant increase in the number of people presenting at hospital with the potentially fatal desease botulism this year. A response from the Minister for Health to a Dáil question from Deputy Ó Snodaigh has shown that since January 2004… Read more

Rethink needed on senior civil service bonuses

The Finance and Personel Committee Chairperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has explained today that explained the Committee for Finance and Personnel is calling for an urgent rethink on senior civil service pay. That is the message following an investigation into the award of over £1m in bonuses which over 75% of… Read more

60th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights should refocus efforts to deliver such rights in Ireland.

Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has stated that the 60th Anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights should refocus efforts to deliver these rights to the people of Ireland and those who come to our shores. Read more

CSO figures highlight Government's broadband failure - Doherty

Commenting on today's figures from the Central Statistics Office on broadband connection, Senator Pearse Doherty has said that the latest CSO data only serves to highlight the continued failure of the Government broadband strategy. Read more

Health Bill regressive and unpatriotic – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD called on the Dáil to decline a second hearing for the Health Bill 2008. Deputy Ó Caoláin said the Bill seeks to implement one of the most callous, ill-considered and bungled decisions ever made by a Government in this State. Read more

Another Public/Private Partnership housing scheme collapses

Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Christy Burke has learned that another Public/Private Partnership housing scheme has collapsed in the Capital. Councillor Burke learned this afternoon that the private developer associated with the proposed redevelopment of Croke Villas in Ballybough has pulled out of the scheme. Read more

Lisbon re-run package - government selling the people a pup

Speaking from Brussels where EU leaders are attending the December Council meeting Sinn Féin Lisbon Campaign Director and EU candidate for the North West Cllr. Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has described the proposed deal that Brian Cowen is to agree the basis on which to re-run the failed Lisbon Treaty in… Read more

This State among the worst for childcare thanks to Government neglect – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the UNICEF Report published today which finds that the 26 Counties come last in a league table of the 25 OECD countries in terms of provision of early childhood education and care, Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD said it is “a direct result… Read more

Ó Snodaigh calls on all Oireachtas members to sign Traveller petition

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Justice, Equality and Human Rights Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has called on all TDs and Senators to sign a national petition which was launched today to grant ethnic status to travellers. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said the Government to mark Traveller Focus Week by reversing its policy… Read more

No Fixed Abode - MEP launches exhibition on Homelessness

Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald this afternoon launched a multimedia exhibition highlighting the issue of homelessness and the housing crisis in Ireland's capital city. Read more

EU and US need to catch up after disappointing start in Poznan

Developing countries have made great strides in the last year in meeting the climate challenge but the EU and US need to inject new momentum after a disappointing start to the UN Climate Change Conference in Poznan, said Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún. Read more

Minister visits Agricultural Society Winter Fair

Sinn Fein Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA today visited the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) Winter Fair at Balmoral. Read more

Winter gritting at rural schools announcement welcome news - Doherty

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP MLA Pat Doherty, MLA has today welcomed the announcement by Minister for Regional Development, Conor Murphy MP, MLA that he has agreed to examine the Roads Service operational response to areas around schools, which are regularly affected by adverse weather conditions with immediate affect. Read more

Middletown Centre for Autism a valuable resource - Ruane

Sinn Féin Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has said that the Middletown Centre for Autism is already providing a valuable service to children with autistic spectrum disorder. Read more

Sinn Féin praises 'courage' of Equality Authority chief

Sinn Féin Equality and Human Rights Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has branded as "disgraceful" the government’s slashing of the Equality Authority's budget, that has basically forced the Equality Authority's chief Executive Niall Crowley to resign today. Read more

Ireland can retain its Commissioner without Lisbon Treaty

Responding to the government's announcement from Brussels that it has reached agreement with the EU Council to re-run the Lisbon Treaty Sinn Féin Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has described the Lisbon re-run deal as 'an exercise in smoke and mirrors.' Read more

Bill of Rights - Important Milestone

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has welcomed the handing over by the Human Rights Commission of its advice to the British government on a Bill of Rights. Read more

Ferris welcomes meeting of agriculture Ministers

Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has welcomed a meeting between the North’s Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew and the Minister in the South Brendan Smith to discuss the issues arising out of the contaminated animal feed crisis. Read more

Joint Agricultural Ministerial Meeting Welcomed

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture Pat Doherty MP has welcomed today's meeting between the island's Agricultural Ministers Michelle Gildernew and Brendan Smith dealing with the issues arising from the contaminated animal feed problem. Read more

Full substitute cover must be permanently retained in all schools - Doherty

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has welcomed the Minister's decision to roll back on the proposal to cut primary school substitute cover announced in the budget. However Senator Doherty said full cover should be permanently retained for all schools. Read more

Detail of EU Council agreement on Lisbon must be released by government

Responding to the agreement reached in Brussels today on re-running the Lisbon Treaty between the Irish government and EU leaders Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has described the deal as "one that raises more questions than answers." Read more

Anderson demands rigorous probe as cops suspended

Sinn Féin Policing Board member Martina Anderson has called for a rigourous investigation after it emerged that seven PSNI officers have been suspended from duty for alleged ‘joyriding’ offences. Read more

Minister Gildernew meets southern counterpart

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA and her Southern counterpart, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Brendan Smith TD, today met in Co Monaghan to discuss the events of the past week in relation to contaminated animal feedstuff. Read more

de Brún rejects Nicholson and Allister view of Brussels Office

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has rejected the views of the Northern Executive’s Brussels Office as described by fellow MEP’s Jim Nicholson and Jim Allister. Read more

Joint meeting of Agricultural Ministers welcomed

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture Pat Doherty MP has welcomed today’s meeting between the island’s Agricultural Ministers Michelle Gildernew and Brendan Smith dealing with the issues arising from the contaminated animal feed problem. Read more

Bill of Rights – Important Milestone

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has welcomed the handing over by the Human Rights Commission of its advice to the British government on a Bill of Rights. Read more

Fall in energy prices welcome

Sinn Féin MLA and vice chair of the Assembly Committee for Enterprise Trade & Investment Jennifer McCann has welcomed the news that gas prices and electricity prices are set to come down. Read more

Illegal activity of police officers must be dealt with swiftly

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA and Policing Board member Daithí McKay has said that police officers in breach of the PSNI’s Code of Conduct and involved in illegal activity need to be dealt with swiftly and appropriately. Mr McKay was speaking after a number of inquiries were launched into the… Read more

Start made in getting money to developing countries in Poznan - de Brún

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún speaking from the UN Climate Change Conference in Poznan, has said that the agreement reached on the Adaptation Fund will allow much-needed funds to get to the most vulnerable developing countries to help them adapt to the adverse effects of climate change. Read more

Wilson can’t run from responsibilities

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún responding to personal attacks from the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has said that the minister cannot keep running away from his responsibility to provide leadership on the environment. Read more

LABOUR/ SINN FÉIN DAIL MOTION SEEKS ACTION ON GROWING HOUSING CRISIS

The Dail will this week debate a Private Members Motion tabled jointly by Labour and Sinn Féin TDs calling for a moratorium on house repossessions, an expanded programme of social housing, new measures to deal with the problem of homelessness, stronger protection for tenants in rented accommodation and legislation to… Read more

SDLP need to recognise new political realities

Commenting on remarks by SDLP Minister Margaret Ritchie questioning her party’s continuing role in the Executive, Sinn Féin Assembly member John O’Dowd said that her remarks were the latest example of the SDLP being incapable of recognising new political realities. Read more

Ó Caoláin to outline detail of joint Sinn Féin Labour Party motion on social housing and homelessness

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD will tomorrow outline the detail of a joint Sinn Féin Labour Party private members’ motion on homelessness and social housing which will be debated in the Dáil tomorrow evening. Read more

Maskey raises PSNI disciplinary investigation with senior officers

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Policing issues Alex Maskey today said that the PSNI investigation which has resulted in officers being suspended needed to be completed quickly and the results including disciplinary measures made public. Read more

Mickey Brady comments on weekend robbery

Sinn Féin Assembly Member for Newry and Armagh and the party’s spokesperson on older people, Mickey Brady has said that he is appalled at the brutal robbery in Toragh Park at the weekend. Read more

Morgan - Government lurching from crisis to crisis

Sinn Féin Economy spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD commenting on the government's announcement on the recapitalising of the banks said "Any money invested by the state in the banks must be given in return for semi or full nationalisation and there needs to be guarantees about renewed credit for business, measures… Read more

Expansion of Fuel Poverty Scheme welcomed

Sinn Féin Social Development spokesperson, North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the intervention of the Office of the First and deputy First Minister to expand the fuel poverty to ensure that it now includes an additional 36,000 pensioners. Read more

Gildernew provides dioxins update at Stormont breakfast

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has addressed attendees at a joint breakfast organised by DARD and DHSSPS at the Long Gallery in Stormont this morning. Read more

Concern at Ritchie reaction to Executive response to economic hardship

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has accused DSD Minister Margaret Ritchie of sending out confused messages relating to the package of measures announced by the Executive today to help people facing economic hardship. Read more

Cautious welcome for Environment Minister’s HMO plans

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has given a cautious welcome to Environment Minister Sammy Wilson’s plans to limit Houses of Multiple Occupancy but has said that the proposals do not go far enough and do not take into account the fact that many areas are already well above… Read more

Banks recapitalisation must include radical reform - Mitchel McLaughlin MLA

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA commenting of Brian Lenihan's proposed Bank recapitilisation package has said that the rescue package needs to be accompanied by radical reform of banking practices and greater regulation of lending practices. Read more

Time for real change - An all-Ireland economy

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA speaking in today's Assembly debate on the 'Impact of the Global Economic Downturn' commended the 'efforts of the Executive in brining forward measures to strengthen the local economy, to protect the most vulnerable in our society, and to alleviate hardship.' Read more

Gildernew welcomes measures to assist those affected by the credit crunch

Sinn Féin Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA today welcomed the Executive’s announcement of the December monitoring round and measures to assist those affected by the credit crunch and other recent events. Read more

McGuinness announces plans to tackle economic hardship

Sinn Féin deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP MLA and Peter Robinson have this morning announced that the Executive will make a payment of £150 to householders on pension credit and income support. Read more

New multiple occupancy schemes needed for Derry – McCartney

Sinn Féin Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has called for a new scheme that has been announced for multiple occupancy houses in the University areas of Belfast to be extend to Derry. Read more

Look out for the Elderly this Christmas – McLaughlin

Sinn Féin spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has called for people to look out for their elderly relatives and neighbours this Christmas. Read more

McLaughlin welcomes Executive's Economic package

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson, Mitchel McLaughlin MLA has welcomed the package of financial measures being introduced to address the present economic downturn announced by the Executive today. Read more

Welcome for Education announcements – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA and education spokesperson John O’Dowd has broadly welcomed announcements made today in relation to assisting the Education sector here in the North. While welcoming much of the news, Mr O’Dowd expressed his and Sinn Féin’s disappointment that there was no extra money made available by DFP to… Read more

Progress on £4.3 million investment in Craigavon area

Sinn Féin Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy has welcomed Roads Service’s progress on investment totalling £4.3million in the Craigavon Council area this year. Read more

Local Pork and Beef safe to eat - Gildernew

The Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP has given all meat products, from the North, on sale in the shops a clean bill of health and encouraged the public to enjoy them. Read more

Ferris: EU ‘losing plot’ on Fisheries

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries Martin Ferris TD has accused the EU Commission of ‘losing the plot’ on the management of fisheries. He was responding to a decision to establish a quota for recreational anglers and to deduct that quota from the existing commercial quota. Read more

Government Health cuts - a return to the '80s and life-threatening for patients - Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called for the immediate publication of the HSE Service Plan for 2009 as approved by the Minister for Health & Children Mary Harney. Deputy Ó Caoláin said that if the reported cuts in the plan go ahead they would be… Read more

Sinn Féin to meet DETI officials on rural broadband availability

Sinn Fein Councillor and Vice-Chair of Moyle Council, Cara McShane will today (Tuesday) meet with DETI officials on plans for availability of Broadband services within rural areas of North Antrim. Read more

Maskey hits out after Newtownbreda attack

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has hit out at those responsible for attacking a man in his South Belfast home last night. The attack took place in the man’s Newtownbreda Road home and the family have said that they believe that the attack was sectarian. Read more

Ó Caoláin outlines detail of joint Sinn Féin Labour Party motion on housing and homelessness

Speaking at a media event at Leinster House today Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD outlined the detail of a joint Sinn Féin Labour Party motion on social housing and homelessness which will be debated in the Dáil this evening and tomorrow evening. Deputy Ó Caoláin said his… Read more

“Executive statement on Credit Unions welcomed” - McCann

Sinn Fein MLA and Vice Chair of the Committee for Enterprise Trade & Investment Jennifer Mc Cann, has welcomed the statement from the Executive, that they will consider proposals to extend the range of services provided by Credit Unions here in the North. Read more

de Brún comments on "important" Climate Change package with "disappointing elements"

Sinn Féin's MEP on the European Parliament's Climate Change Committee has today spoken on the latest proposed EU plan on Climate Change which will be voted in the European Parliament tomorrow. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome OFMDFM meeting with Banking Sector.

Sinn Féin MLA for South Antrim and economic spokesperson, Mitchell McLaughlin has welcomed the meeting proposed by The First and Deputy First Ministers to lead an Executive meeting with the bosses of the four main banks in the North to discuss the economic downturn. Read more

Banking officials sitting back while SMEs are going to the wall

Speaking at the Finance and Public Services Oireachtas Committee meeting this morning Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD criticised the banking officials who attended the committee for their lack of initiative in dealing with the credit crisis. Read more

De Brún welcomes launch of Autism support DVD across Europe

Sinn Féin MEP for the Six Counties Bairbre de Brún has congratulated those behind the development of a support DVD for parents of children with autism. Read more

Sinn Fein MP welcomes Pilot Project for "Shop and Drop" Free Bus

Sinn Fein MP MLA for Fermanagh South Tyrone Michelle Gildernew welcomes the “Shop and Drop” pilot project free bus service for residents in Caledon. Read more

Parker and Maskey to attend official opening of Finaghy Crossroads Group Office

Balmoral Sinn Féin representative Vincent Parker has complimented the ongoing work of the Finaghy Crossroads Group and said that tonight’s official opening of their new office ensures that the good work will continue in the future. Read more

Morgan highlights exploitation of migrant workers in the Dáil

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has called on the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, An Tánaiste Mary Coughlan, to end the delay in passing the Employment Law Compliance Bill. Speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Morgan said a new report highlights major infringements of the rights… Read more

More evidence that Taser’s should go - Anderson

Sinn Féin Policing Board Member, Martina Anderson MLA has stated that the revelations by Amnesty International at today’s Policing Board meeting with regards Taser’s deaths is yet more evidence that they should be withdrawn. Read more

Ó Snodaigh moves Dáil motion on Social Housing and Homelessness

Sinn Fein Housing Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has this evening moved a Dáil motion on social housing and homelessness. Speaking on the motion, which was jointly sponsored by Sinn Féin and the Labour Party Deputy Ó Snodaigh called for the construction of an additional 10,000 social housing units each… Read more

Sinn Féin makes submission to Limerick's Garda Division Policing Plan

Sinn Féin Limerick City representatives Maurice Quinlivan and Tom Collopy together with the party's Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD today met with Superintendent Frank O'Brien to brief him on their submission to the Limerick Division Garda Policing Plan for 2009. In the submission Sinn Féin has urged the Minister… Read more

Housing list in Kerry has increased by 82% since 2005

Sinn Féin Agriculture spokesperson Martin Ferris speaking during a Dáil debate on a joint Sinn Féin/Labour Party motion on Social Housing and Homelessness said, “The overall waiting list for Kerry is now over 3,300. That represents an increase of 82% since 2005.” Read more

De Brún warns that EU leaders could fuel opposition to the EU

Bairbre de Brún said that "the way the Irish 'No' vote has been dealt with is not creating goodwill" and warned that "it could even fuel opposition to the EU". Speaking in the European Parliament Ms de Brún said that "the gap between EU leaders and citizens has been deepened… Read more

Conclúidí Comhairle: Conradh Liospóin

"Ba chóir d’Éirinn bheith san Aontas Eorpach. Tá comhoibriú lenár gcomhpháirtithe Eorpach luachmhar. Ach níl an dóigh ar déileáladh leis an vóta 'Níl' in Éirinn ag spreagadh dea-thoil. Thiocfadh leis fiú cur leis an seasamh in aghaidh an AE, agus ní amháin in Éirinn. Read more

Gildernew confirms resolution to restrictions on weanling trade to Italy

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP MLA has today confirmed that the difficulties being experienced by exporters of weanling cattle to Italy should now be resolved. Read more

Environment Committee must show leadership that Wilson lacks

Sinn Féin Environmental Spokesperson and North Antrim MLA Daithí McKay has said that the Environment Committee in the Assembly has to take the lead in regard to the issue of Climate Change because of the irresponsible position that the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has taken up. Mr McKay was speaking… Read more

Landmark EU Climate Change Package a first step - de Brún

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has this afternoon voted in favour of the European Parliament's Climate Change Package. Today's vote is a landmark in tackling climate change as it is the first time such a package has been addressed through EU legislation. Read more

Landmark EU Climate Change Package - a first step

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has this afternoon voted in favour of the European Parliament's Climate Change Package. Today's vote is a landmark in tackling climate change as it is the first time such a package has been addressed through EU legislation. Read more

Education Minister launches consultation on annual reports to parents

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has launched for consultation draft regulations which will improve the information schools provide to parents on their progress of their children. Read more

Leabhar 50 Bliain i Stair Pharlaimint na hEorpa

Fáiltíonn Bairbre de Brún FPE roimh leabhar '50 Bliain i Stair Pharlaimint na hEorpa'. Léirítear san leabhair seo le grianghraif stair Pharlaimint na hEorpa ó 1958 i leith. Foilsíodh an leabhair i ngach teanga oifigiúil den AE, an Ghaeilge san áireamh. Read more

Sinn Féin MEPs welcome EU Parliament decision to end 48-hour working week opt-out

Responding to the EU Parliament's overwhelming decision to end the 48-hour working week opt-out within three years in the proposed revision of the Working Time Directive Sinn Féin MEPs Mary Lou McDonald and Bairbre de Brún have called on the European Council to accept the Parliament's position and both paid… Read more

Minister announces cessation of collection of seed potato levy

Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has announced the cessation of collection of the statutory Seed Potato Levy. Read more

Ó Snodaigh welcomes Dublin heroin seizure

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed last night’s seizure of 30kg of heroin with an estimated value of €6million at Dublin port. Deputy Ó Snodaigh said the recent increase in heroin seizures has coincided with an upsurge in people seeking help for heroin addiction. He said… Read more

Re-run of Lisbon a denial of democracy – Ó Caoláin

Speaking in the Dáil today, on last week’s European Council meeting in Brussels, Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD said, “The arrogant approach of the government over the last six months shows a complete lack of respect for both the democratic institutions of the State and the democratic… Read more

Sinn Féin call for establishment of Commissioners Forum to address grave failings in the prison service

Sinn Féin MLA and spokesperson on Human Rights Martina Anderson has today called for the establishment of Commissioners Forum to deliver clear and binding proposals to address the serious failings in the delivery of prison facilities in the North of Ireland. Speaking following the publishing of today’s report by the… Read more

O'Devaney Garden residents have a right to decent housing says Adams

Speaking as he visited O'Devaney Gardens with local Sinn Féin representatives Cllr. Christy Burke and Ruadhán MacAodháin Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA commended the residents for their "resilience" and "determination." Read more

Glidernew condemns attack on DUP Councillors home

Sinn Fein MP MLA for Fermanagh South Tyrone Michelle Gildernew has condemned the attack against Ballygawley DUP Councillor, Sammy Brush Read more

Ferris raises concerns on source of oil at centre of pork contamination

Sinn Féin Agriculture Spokesperson Martin Ferris TD has raised concerns in the Dáil at reports that oil from electrical transformers, due to be exported and destroyed, may have been resold and used to heat animal feed leading to the pork contamination and removal of Irish pork products from shelves. Read more

Ferris calls for processing workers to be compensated

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD has called on the Government to ensure that workers who were laid off as part of the scare over contaminated pig meat are given compensation out of the fund made available to the processors. Read more

Government ignores rising problem of home repossessions and illegal evictions

Sinn Féin Economy spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD speaking during the debate on the joint Sinn Féin-Labour Party motion on housing and homelessness accused the government of ignoring the rising problem of home repossessions and illegal evictions. He called on the government to introduce a two year moratorium on repossessions, while… Read more

Ó Caoláin calls for system to identify and prosecute rogue landlords

Concluding a Dáil debate this evening on a joint Sinn Féin Labour Party motion on social housing and homelessness, Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD called for a system to be put in place "to identify and prosecute landlords who are consistently in breach of the government's own… Read more

GILDERNEW WELCOMES PRIVATE STORAGE AID FOR LOCAL PIG INDUSTRY

The EU has introduced a Private Storage Aid (PSA) Scheme for the North’s pig meat industry with a potential value of £6million. Read more

Cross Border Rural transport Pilot Begins

Transport Minister Conor Murphy and his counterpart in the South Minister Noel Dempsey today welcomed the start of a cross border rural transport pilot project in counties Fermanagh and Donegal. Read more

Root and Branch changes needed in treatment of Young Offenders

Sinn Féin west Belfast MP Gerry Adams, earlier this week met representatives from the Children’s Law centre. They discussed among other issues the appalling conditions in Hydebank. Read more

Morgan – Government recapitalising plan will reward rich investors at the expense of the economy

Sinn Féin Economy spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD speaking during the Dáil debate on recapitalising the banks said: “If the Government proceeds with the inclusion of private equity investors, they will have used the Irish tax payers guarantee to subsidise a tiny number of investors in making quick profits at the… Read more

Ferris calls for rejection of Fish Quota cuts

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Fisheries Martin Ferris TD has reiterated his call for Fisheries Minister Tony Killeen to resolutely oppose all proposals to cut the quota allocated to Irish fishermen in 2009. The Kerry North TD was speaking as Fisheries Ministers met in Brussels to consider proposals to severely… Read more

Brolly 'saddened' at news of Coleraine job losses

Sinn Féin MLA Francie Brolly has said that he is 'saddened' to hear of the latest job losses at AVX in Coleraine, 'particularly at this time of year'. Read more

Mary Lou McDonald secures meeting between Department of Education and Gaelscoil Bharra in Cabra

Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald today met with Dublin City Council officials and following a productive discussion secured a meeting between the Council, the Department of Education and Gaelscoil Bharra in Cabra to take place in January to discuss tackling the horrendous conditions of the school which is without proper… Read more

O Dowd urges public to assist with Craigavon Area Hospital outbreak

John O’Dowd MLA has called on the Public to co-operate with the staff at Craigavon Area Hospital in order to bring an end to the Clostridium difficile outbreak at the Hospital. Read more

Time is running out for parents to avail of up to £1,040 of Children’s Tax Allowance - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh and party spokesperson on welfare Mickey Brady has urged people to check whether they are eligible to claim back up to £1,040 of Children’s Tax Allowance as the deadline for applying is the 31st of January 2009. Read more

£500,000 for Lisburn City Council 400th Anniversary but refusal for Poleglass £14,000 community post

Lagan Valley MLA and Lisburn councillor Paul Butler has slammed Lisburn City Council for refusing to fund an administration post in Poleglass of £14,000 despite allocating a half a million pound for 400th Anniversary celebrations. Read more

Government Economic Renewal Plan short on substance - Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has described the Government's Economic Renewal Plan, announced today, as a collection of rehashed policies with some new economic aspirations but very little substance. He said the plan certainly does not reflect what is required to stabilise and re-energise the economy. Read more

Spent Convictions Bill a welcome first step – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has welcomed the Spent Convictions Bill 2008 in the Dáil this afternoon as the first occasion on which the state has recognised that a minor conviction should not hang over an adult for the rest of their life. However Deputy Ó Snodaigh… Read more

Funding cuts to Bara Project and Treo Nua must be reversed

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh this afternoon secured a Dáil debate on the devastating funding cuts to two community addiction and rehabilitation projects in County Wicklow. Read more

Wilson backs supermarkets rather than publicly backed solution to plastic bags

Sinn Féin Environment Spokesperson Daithí McKay has said that the Environment Minister Sammy Wilson has backed the supermarkets rather than the general public on the matter of tackling the problem of plastic bags. Mr McKay was speaking after a number of large supermarkets pledged to halve the number of carrier… Read more

Ráiteas ó Gerry Adams ar fhoilsiú eagrán deireanach de Lá Nua

Tá Gerry Adams i ndiaidh a rá gur cúis aiféala dó foilsiú Lá Nua ag teacht chun deireadh, ach deir sé go bhfuil sé dóchasach go mbeidh seirbhís laethúil nuachta Gaeilge ann amach anseo. Read more

Gildernew announces important changes for Herdkeepers

Sinn Féin Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew, MP MLA, announced important changes to cattle registration rules and DNA testing, which will benefit herdkeepers. Read more

Gerry Adams comments on final publication of Lá Nua

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP has expressed his sadness at the final edition of Lá Nua but indicated his hopes for a daily Irish Language news service in the future. Read more

Immediate audit needed of all banks covered by government guarantee

Responding to the resignation of Anglo Irish Bank Chief Seán Fitzpatrick on foot of revelations that he hid €87 million in loans from shareholders Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan has described today's revelation as "further evidence of the depth of cultural dishonesty in the banking sector." Read more

Ráiteas ó Gerry Adams ar fhoilsiú eagrán deireanach de Lá Nua

Tá Gerry Adams i ndiaidh a rá gur cúis aiféala dó foilsiú Lá Nua ag teacht chun deireadh, ach deir sé go bhfuil sé dóchasach go mbeidh seirbhís laethúil nuachta Gaeilge ann amach anseo. Read more

Maskey disappointed at latest job losses

Sinn Féin West Belfast MLA and Chair of the Assembly Public Accounts Committee Paul Maskey has expressed his ‘dissapointment’ at the news of latest job losses from FG Wilson. Read more

Maskey welcomes Primrose Hill traffic light switch on

South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has welcomed the fact that new traffic light at the Primrose Hill/Saintfield Road junction, this week, became fully functional. Read more

Sinn Fein welcome Consumer Council / Utility Regulator research

Sinn Fein MLA and Vice Chair of the Committee for Enterprise Trade & Investment Jennifer Mc Cann, has welcomed the news that the Consumer Council and the Utility regulator are to carry out joint research with the aim of making people aware of schemes available from energy companies to help… Read more

British legislation on Community Hall Compensation enshrining discrimination on statue

Sinn Féin MLA for Tyrone Barry McElduff has stated that the legislation before Westminster regarding compensation for community halls in the North of Ireland is enshrining discrimination on statute as it ignores attacks on GAA halls and clubhouses. Read more

Minister for Finance asleep at the wheel

Speaking during this mornings Seanad debate on the Finance Bill Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty described the Bill as "representing the depressing evidence of a government intent on sleep walking through a crisis that is threatening not just the banking system or the construction sector but is slowly bleeding the… Read more

Minister Gildernew secures a number of guarantees from EU Commission for the North’s fishing industry

Sinn Féin south Down MLA Willie Clarke has welcomed the news that Agriculture Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has secured a number of guarantees from the EU Commission in relation to proposed cuts in the fishing quota here in the North. Read more

Attack on home of Independent DPP member

Sinn Féin Newry Armagh MP Conor Murphy has condemned the overnight attack on the home of Independent Newry and Mourne District Policing Partnership member Annette Hughes. Read more

No Christmas joy for undocumented Irish and their families - pathway to US Citizenship must be found

Sinn Féin Newry and Mourne Councillor Pat McGinn commenting on the continuing plight of the undocumented Irish in America has said that many Irish emigrants will not be experiencing the joy of travelling home for Christmas to visit their loved ones. Read more

Plans to slash Strabane Social Security Office jobs and services lambasted

Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty has lambasted the response by DSD Minister Margaret Ritchie to the latest series of questions he has submitted to her in relation to the future of Strabane Social Security Office jobs and services. Read more

Newry Identity Campaign gains further momentum

Chairperson of the Newry Identity Campaign (NIC) and Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh, Mickey Brady has said that he was encouraged by the response from the people of Newry at the organisation’s first public meeting. Read more

300 jobs threatened by u-turn on Housing work

Sinn Féin Mid Ulster MLA Francie Molloy has said that up to 300 jobs are at risk by the decision of Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie to halt work on kitchen refurbishments in Housing Executive properties across the north. Read more

Adams extends sympathy to McIlhone family

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA has welcomed today’s news that the remains uncovered in Ballynultagh. Co. Wicklow are those of Danny McIlhone and that they will now be returned to the family for burial. Read more

Adams appeals for Information

Sinn Féin President and west Belfast MP Gerry Adams has appealed again for anyone with any information – no matter how small they may think it is - concerning any of those remains still missing to “either bring that information forward to the Commission or any of the official agencies,… Read more

McKay Unveils Details Of Glenravel Traffic Calming Work

North Antrim Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has held a meeting with Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy regarding traffic-calming schemes in Cargan and Martinstown. Work is to start this financial year and all improvements should be completed in 2009/10. Read more

Time is running out for parents to avail of up to £1,040 of Children’s Tax Allowance - Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA for Newry and Armagh and party spokesperson on welfare Mickey Brady has urged people to check whether they are eligible to claim back up to £1,040 of Children's Tax Allowance as the deadline for applying is the 31st of January 2009. Read more

Call for better labelling of products to encourage more recycling

Sinn Fein’s Paul Butler has called for better labelling on household products to inform the public what products can be recycled. With the huge amount of waste we will create over Christmas we need to be doing more to encourage people to recycle more of their household waste. Read more

Government recapitalisation plan short changes Irish tax-payer - Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has said the Government’s plan to recapitalise three of Ireland’s main banks short changes the Irish tax-payers. Deputy Morgan said it is clear that the Government has no intention of holding anyone to account for the current financial crisis and that the banks… Read more

Donegal to LIGHT the way this week with solar powered public lighting

Donegal Sinn Féin Senator and Transport Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has announced that the first ever solar powered public lighting scheme is due to be switched on this week. The pilot scheme includes 15 solar panel lights on the N56 at Meenacuing in Gweedore. Read more

Ireland needs all-island VAT harmonisation

Speaking in advance of the post Christmas sales Sinn Féin Economic Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has called on the government to meet with the British Chancellor of the Exchequer to progress harmonising VAT rates across the island of Ireland. Read more

Tougher measures needed to reduce road deaths - Doherty

Following the tragic road death of a teenager in Leitrim last night Sinn Féin Transport and Road Safety Spokesperson Senator Pearse Doherty has added his voice to appeals from Gardaí, the Road Safety Authority, AA Roadwatch and the Taoiseach for people to pay attention to road safety over the festive… Read more

Minister Ryan must produce detail of plans to replace top bankers - Morgan

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD, responding to comments from Green Party Minister Eamon Ryan on the replacement of personnel at the top of Irish banks in the New Year, said we have heard empty noises on this issue before from the Green Party and called for more detail… Read more

McKay shocked at river pollution figures

Sinn Féin’s North Antrim MLA and the party’s environmental spokesperson Daithí McKay has expressed his ‘shock and sadness’ at figures released highlighting the degree of river pollution across the North. Read more

Call for CAB to investigate Anglo Irish Bank

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Arthur Morgan TD has called for the Criminal Assets Bureau and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement to investigate the banking practices of Anglo Irish Bank and the circumstances surrounding the resignations of Seán Fitzpatrick and David Drumm. Read more

People of Newry ‘deeply saddened’ at news of murder – Brady

Sinn Féin Newry and Armagh MLA Mickey Brady has said that ‘the people of Newry are deeply saddened’ by the death of Maire Rankin on Christmas Day. Read more

Sinn Féin Leadership condemns Israel's attack on Gaza

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams MP MLA and National Chairperson Mary Lou McDonald MEP have today, on behalf of the party's leadership and elected representatives in the Assembly, Oireachtas and local authorities throughout the island, condemned Israel's brutal attack on Gaza which has killed at least 155 people and wounded… Read more

Road safety must be paramount for all drivers

Following the tragic road death of a woman who died after a collision on the N3 between Virginia and Cavan town Sinn Féin Cavan Monaghan TD Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has urged road users to reduce their speed and to drive safely during the holiday period. Read more

Gerry Adams calls for solidarity with the people of Gaza

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has called for solidarity with the people of Gaza in the wake of repeated Israeli bombardment of the region, which has killed at least 270 people and wounded hundreds more. Read more

Practical measures must be taken against Israel - Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin International Affairs and Human Rights Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, speaking from Dublin today where he attended demonstration in solidarity with the Palestinian People, said tough words from Foreign Affairs Minister Micheál Martin will have no affect on Israel’s decision to continue is bombardment of Gaza. Read more

Gaza attacks must stop immiediately

Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has called for solidarity with the people of Gaza in following the third day of intensive air strikes of the Gaza Strip by Israel. The air strikes have killed over 320 people and injured 1,400. Read more

Community shocked at death of man in house fire in Banbridge

Sinn Féin Councillor for Banbridge, Dessie Ward, has stated that local community are shocked at the death of man whose body has been found following a house fire at Larchwood. Read more

Sinn Féin urge parents to be vigilant following Dungiven assault on children

Sinn Féin MLA Francie Brolly has called on parents to be vigilant following an indecent attack on two young girls in the Dungiven area. Read more

Local community shocked at West Belfast bar attack. – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin Councillor for West Belfast, Marie Cush, has stated that the local community are shocked at the attack on in O’Connors bar on the Falls Road. The attack happened last night and it is believed that those responsible travelled into West Belfast to carry out the attack. Read more

EU Foreign Ministers must agree to suspend Euro-Med Agreement with Israel

Sinn Féin National Chairperson and Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has tonight called on EU Foreign Ministers to discuss and agree the suspension of the European-Mediterranean Agreement with Israel as it continues its military offensive against Gaza. Read more

New Year message from West Tyrone MP Pat Doherty

In a New Year’s message, Sinn Féin West Tyrone MP MLA Pat Doherty says that his priority in 2009 will be to ensure that major projects of economic and social benefit to the constituency are brought to fruition. Read more

Health Minister gambling with cardiac patients' lives - Digney‏

Sinn Féin Councillor Monica Digney has spoken of her absolute shock upon hearing that cardiac patients were being transferred from the Northern Health Board area to Belfast by St Johns' Ambulance Service. Read more

EU message to Israel must change

Responding to Israel's refusal to agree to a 48-hour ceasefire proposal that would have enabled desperately needed humanitarian aid access into Gaza, Sinn Féin National Chairperson and Dublin MEP Mary Lou McDonald has again called on the EU to suspend its European-Mediterranean Agreement with Israel. Read more

Ag amharc chun tosaigh agus ag dúil leis an am atá le teacht.

Tá ráiteas don Bhliain Úr curtha amach ag Uachtarán SINN FÉIN, Gearóid Mac Adhaimh, ina ndeir sé: "Bliain tábhachtach a bhí in 2008, ina rinneadh dul chun cinn eile le daingniú fhréamhacha na n-institiúidí uile-Éireann, na hinstitiúidí rialtais sa tuaisceart san áireamh Read more

Looking forward with confidence

SINN FÉIN President Gerry Adams MP MLA in a New Year message said: "2008 was a significant year that saw further progress made in bedding down the all-Ireland political institutions including governmental institutions in the North. Read more

December 2008 Archives (Latest News)

December 1, 2008

December 2, 2008

December 3, 2008

December 4, 2008

December 5, 2008

December 6, 2008

December 8, 2008

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December 10, 2008