January 2011 Archives (Latest News)

Ferris to address Seán Sabhat commemoration

Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris, will address the 2011 Seán Sabhat Commemoration in Limerick City tomorrow, Sunday 2nd January. The commemoration parade will assemble at Bedford Row at 2:45pm from where it will makes it’s way to Seán Sabhat’s graveside at the Republican Plot, Mount St Laurence Cemetery. Limerick City… Read more

Government lagging behind public on Seanad abolition — Doherty

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has reiterated his call for the abolition of the Seanad. The Donegal South West TD and former Senator said reports that the Government is considering a referendum on the issue showed that the coalition was again lagging behind public opinion on major issues rather… Read more

Government economic strategy ‘unjust and obscene’ — McDonald

Sinn Féin Vice President Mary Lou McDonald has said that over a million citizens facing cuts to social welfare and child benefit payments from today were being targeted by the Government to bail out banks and bank bondholders and that Government economic strategy was “unjust and obscene”. Sinn Féin, she… Read more

Unionist calls for DRD Minister to resign purely politically driven - O'Dowd

Sinn Féin assembly member John O’Dowd has dismissed unionist calls for the DRD Minister Conor Murphy to resign as ‘pathetic politicking at a time when ordinary people are suffering’. Read more

Increase in VAT wrong way to address budget deficits - McLaughlin

Sinn Féin MLA and economic spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin has stated that the increase in VAT is the wrong way for the British government to address their deficit and that the increase will affect those who can least afford it, increase inflation and reduce overall growth. Read more

Government’s continued failure protect businesses feeding unemployment crisis – Morgan

Speaking today after it was revealed that twenty-five firms went bust every week in 2010, Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Enterprise, Arthur Morgan said the Government has failed to offset the effects of the decline in the construction industry with meaningful employment opportunities. Read more

Those considering voting Labour should read Fine Gael manifesto first – Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has said that in his latest RTÉ interview, Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore has made it clear that it his intention to put Fine Gael into Government. Read more

Gilmore missing the point on EU/IMF deal – Doherty

Responding to Eamon Gilmore’s interview on the News at One today Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty said the Labour Party leader is missing the point on the EU/IMF deal. Read more

No payoff for NIW Chief

Sinn Féin Assembly member Caral NíChuilin has said that there should be ‘no question’ of a pay off being given to NI Water Chief Executive Lawrence McKenzie if he resigns from his position. Read more

Health cuts will worsen trolley situation – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the record number of patients on trolleys and chairs Accident and Emergency Departments of our public hospitals as highlighted by the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, Sinn Féin Dáil leader and Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said the cuts imposed in the Budget were set to… Read more

Sinn Féin to meet Housing Executive Chief Exec on handling of weather crisis

Sinn Féin MLA and Housing spokesperson Fra McCann will lead a party delegation in meeting with the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive on Friday morning. Read more

Sinn Féin has no intention of putting conservative parties into Government – Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has said that comments today by Labour Party leader Eamon Gilmore were a flimsy attempt to distract attention from his intention of putting Fine Gael into Government. Read more

SF seek to meet new Orange Order leader

Commenting on the appointment of Eddie Stevenson as the new Head of the Orange Order, Sinn Féin Assembly member Alex Maskey said he hoped the new man would mark a change in the failed polices followed by his predecessor Robert Saulters. Read more

Ferris expresses disappointment at Kerry Airport Job Losses

Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris has today expressed his disappointment at the announcement that 20 jobs are to be axed at Kerry Airport. Deputy Ferris said Ryanair’s recent decision to cut its Dublin-Kerry service was always going to put pressure on jobs at the airport. Read more

Roads Service prepared for return of severe weather and pothole repairs ongoing as a priority

Regional Development Minister, Conor Murphy, today provided an update on preparations for the predicted return of wintry weather. Read more

Consultation on the Review of the Regional Development Strategy launched

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy today launched the consultation on the review of the Regional Development Strategy (RDS) for three months until 31 March 2011. Read more

Ferris claims that Superquinn workers are victims of property speculators

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Workers Rights has claimed that the 110 Superquinn workers at its Naas outlet are the victims of property speculation. Superquinn was acquired from the Quinn family in 2005 by Select Retail Holdings whose major share holders included property developers Bernard McNamara, Jerry O’Reilly and David… Read more

Transfer of EU/IMF loan the final nail in the coffin of Irish economic sovereignty – Doherty

Speaking today after it was revealed that the first tranche of the EU/IMF loan will be paid out to Ireland on Wednesday 12th January, Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty said: Read more

Government still hasn’t grasped the concept of job creation – Morgan

Speaking today after the Live Register showed an increase of 5,200 people in December, Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Enterprise, Trade and Innovation Arthur Morgan said: Read more

Referendum on children’s rights overdue – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has welcomed what he called the “long overdue” news that the Cabinet has agreed wording for a children’s rights amendment to the Constitution, as announced by Minister of State for Children Barry Andrews. Read more

Housing Executive response to weather crisis warrants investigation

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Fra McCann MLA has said that figures released yesterday by the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive that the repair bill for Housing executive homes could be over £10 million are ‘staggering’ and ‘warrant urgent investigation’. Read more

Sinn Féin comment on appointment of new Director General for 6 County Prison Service

Sinn Féin deputy Chair of the Assembly Justice Committee Raymond McCartney MLA has this afternoon said he is ‘glad’ that this position has been filled in a speedy fashion. Read more

VHI hike a further burden on families – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has described the price increases for VHI premiums as a further burden on hard-pressed families. Read more

SF Belfast Council Group welcome decision on Ballymurphy Exhibition

Belfast Sinn Féin Council group has welcomed the decision for the Ballymurphy campaigners to go ahead with a planned Exhibition in City Hall later this year to commemorate their loved ones. Read more

McDevitt support for unionist veto disgraceful

Sinn Féin Assembly member Alex Maskey has said that SDLP representative Conal McDevitt needs ‘to get real if he thinks that nationalists in the north are about to stand by and watch him try and barter away hard fought gains in successive negotiations for his own narrow political ambitions’. He… Read more

Sinn Féin comment following meeting with Senior Housing Executive staff

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson has cautiously welcomed assurances from the Housing Executive that they have plans in place to deal with another period adverse weather. Read more

33 critical with swine flu and where is the Minister McGimpsey? - O Neill

Sinn Féin MLA and vice chair of the health committee Michelle O’Neill has accused the Health Minster Michael McGimpsey of ‘going missing on the job’ as the Health Service tries to tackle the re-emergence of Swine flu. Read more

Adams to launch Meath Sinn Féin Election Campaign

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams will launch his party’s general election campaign in Meath tonight. The campaign will kick off the campaign at 7.30pm in the Ardboyne Hotel in Navan this evening. Read more

Adams expresses condolences to family of Councillor Paddy Wright

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has expressed his sincerest condolences to the family of Athy Town Councillor Paddy Wright who passed away last night. Read more

Crumbling health service a stark example of Government failure – Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has said the General Election offers an opportunity for the beginning of a real process of social and economic change. Read more

Ó Snodaigh slams mischievous newspaper reports on theft of his car

Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD, whose car was stolen and burned over the Christmas period, has said that contrary to misleading newspaper reports today, he did report the theft in person to the Gardai. Aengus Ó Snodaigh said: “Contrary to newspaper reports today, I did in fact… Read more

Emergency Services praised after New Lodge Fire

Sinn Fein North Belfast MLA Caral Ni Chuilin has praised the emergency services response to a fire at a flat on the New Lodge Road. Commenting this morning Ms Ni Chuilin, who lives in the area and visited the scene said; Read more

McElduff condemns threats against local sport

Sinn Fein's Sport spokesperson Barry McElduff has condemned those responsible for threatening Celtic FC Manager Neil Lennon as well as squad member Niall McGinn, both of whom had bullets addressed to them sent through the post. He has also condemned those responsible for causing a bomb alert at a GAA… Read more

Sinn Féin Assembly motion urges Housing Bodies to learn lessons from adverse weather

Sinn Féin Housing Spokesperson Fra McCann MLA has called on the Social Development Minister to engage an independent investigation into how the various Housing Bodies handled the recent adverse weather conditions. Read more

Ó Caoláin urges Fine Gael and Labour to back Sinn Féin motion of no confidence in Taoiseach

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has urged Fine Gael and the Labour Party to back the Sinn Féin motion of no confidence in Taoiseach Brian Cowen, in light of the revelation of the previously undisclosed meeting between the Taoiseach and Seán Fitzpatrick in July 2008. Deputy Ó Caoláin… Read more

Adams welcomes ETA statement

Speaking in Dublin Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams welcomed today’s statement by ETA confirming that organisations’ commitment to “a permanent and general ceasefire which will be verifiable by the international community” and also urged the Spanish government “to grasp the opportunity for a lasting peace and a new beginning in… Read more

Government should go now - Adams

Speaking during a break in a meeting of party candidates in Dublin today Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said the Government should leave office on foot of the revelations about Brian Cowen’s meeting with Seán Fitzpatrick prior to the bank guarantee. Read more

de Brún on ETA Declaration: imperative that the EU support peace in the Basque Country

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún has said that "it is imperative that the EU now act to support peace in the Basque Country". Read more

Gildernew expresses sincere condolences to Harte family.

Fermanagh/South Tyrone MP, Michelle Gildernew has expressed her heartfelt condolences to the family of Tyrone Manager Mickey Harte on the sudden death of his daughter Michaela whilst on honeymoon. Read more

Adams expresses sympathy following the death of Michaela Harte

Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams has expressed his “shock” at the news of the death of Michaela Harte, daughter of County Tyrone manager Mickey Harte, and has extended his deepest sympathy to the Harte and McAreavey families. ends Read more

Taoiseach’s story simply beyond belief – Doherty

Responding to the statement from Brian Cowen this evening Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has said it is beyond believe that the Taoiseach spent up to six hours in the company of Seán Fitzpatrick without discussing the situation at Anglo Irish Bank. Read more

Gerry Kelly: Finucane Family deserve truth and justice

Sinn Féin north Belfast MLA and Junior Minister Gerry Kelly has called on British Secretary of State Owen Patterson to fulfil British Government commitments and implement an inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane. Read more

Consultation for Bi-lingual Traffic Signs

DRD has launched a consultation on proposals to introduce a range of bilingual traffic signs in either Irish or Ulster-Scots. Read more

Ferris claims that sugar industry was sacrificed to property developers

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture Martin Ferris TD claimed today that the Irish sugar factory was closed unnecessarily in order to facilitate property speculation by Greencore. The Kerry North TD was speaking at a Committee meeting this afternoon on the possible redevelopment of the sugar industry here. Read more

Welcome for bi-lingual signage consultation - Sheehan

Sinn Féin MLA for West Belfast and Language spokesperson Pat Sheehan has welcomed the launch of a draft consultation process into bi-lingual road signage. Read more

Pathetic Green Party prolonging the agony – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has described as “pathetic” the response of the Green Party to the revelations of contacts between the Taoiseach Brian Cowen and Seán Fitzpatrick, chair of the corrupt Anglo-Irish Bank. Read more

Ó Donnghaile expresses shock at east Belfast Alliance Councillors attack on the Irish Language

Sinn Féin Pottinger Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has expressed his ‘shock’ at the stance taken by the Alliance party in relation to the Department of Regional Development’s consultation document on bilingual signage. Read more

Gildernew extends closing date for applications to Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS)

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has extended the closing date for the Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS) until 4pm on Friday 21 January 2011. Read more

Doherty rejects third level fees proposal

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Education Pearse Doherty has rejected the government’s proposal to reintroduce third level fees and called on Fine Gael and Labour to do the same. Read more

McCartney condemns threat against Celtic player Paddy McCourt

Sinn Fein's Foyle MLA Raymond McCartney has condemned those responsible for threatening Celtic and former Derry City FC Player Paddy McCourt who had bullets addressed to him sent through the post. His comments follow the discovery of the package at a Glasgow sorting office. Read more

Root and branch reform of political and economic systems needed – Adams

Speaking ahead of the return of the Dáil this morning Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said Fianna Fáil’s cosy relationship with speculators, developers and bankers such as Seán Fitzpatrick underpins the need for root and branch reform of the political and economic systems. Read more

Children’s ophthalmology appointments postponed at Crumlin Children’s Hospital due to staff shortages – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin TD for Dublin South Central Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called for additional resources to be allocated to the Ophthalmology Clinic in Crumlin Children’s Hospital after parent’s received letters this week postponing their children’s appointments due to a lack of sufficient staff numbers. Read more

Government won’t be around to implement legislative programme – Ó Snodaigh

Speaking today after the Government published its legislative programme for the current Dáil term Sinn Féin whip in the Dáil Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD said the Government will not be in office to implement the legislation and a general election should be called immediately. Read more

Taoiseach’s credibility in tatters – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said that the Taoiseach’s credibility is in tatters after he admitted, following Dáil questioning from Deputy Ó Caoláin, that as well as Seán Fitzpatrick, the Taoiseach was joined at the Druid’s Glen dinner by then Anglo-Irish Director Gary McGann and Alan Gray,… Read more

Maskey calls on Attwood to take direct Ministerial intervention

Sinn Féin MLA for south Belfast Alex Maskey has contacted the Social Development Minister Alex Attwood, urging him to directly intervene in the case of a young woman in the Market area. Read more

Motion of no confidence in Taoiseach tabled on behalf of Technical Group

The leader of the Technical Group in the Dáil, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD, has announced that a motion of no confidence in Taoiseach Brian Cowen has this afternoon been tabled by the seven members of the group. Read more

Justice Minister should repeal anti-Gaelic 1737 Act - McCartney

Sinn Féin deputy Chair of the Assembly Justice Committee Raymond McCartney MLA has called on Justice Minister David Ford to urgently look at repealing the discriminatory 1737 Act which prohibits the use of the Irish Language in Courts here. Read more

Spiraling fuel duty must be dealt with

Sinn Féin MLA and chair of the Finance committee, Jennifer McCann, has said all must be done to cap, and indeed reduce, the spiraling effects of the taxation on fuel prices at the pumps. Read more

Sinn Féin welcome proposal for statutory rule on Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007

Sinn Féin Justice spokesperson Raymond McCartney MLA has welcomed proposals brought to the Justice Committee today from the Department which proposes to make a Statutory Rule under the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act here in the Six Counties. Read more

Gildernew announces draft DARD budget proposals

The Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development, Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA announced today her Department’s proposed allocations under the Executive’s Budget 2011-2015. Read more

Sinn Féin comment on Departmental Spending Plans

Commenting on the publication of the Departmental Spending Plans, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Finance Mitchel McLaughlin said it was now vital that the Executive Budget Review Group meet in the coming days, to discuss the allocation of additional revenue outlined in the Budget paper. Read more

Former RUC members – on policing gravy train

Commenting on the release of figures showing over £500m was spent funding the Patton redundancy package for former RUC members, Sinn Féin Councillor Elisha McLaughlin said: Read more

Ferris attacks moves to liberalise postal service

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Workers Rights, Martin Ferris TD strongly criticised legislation designed to liberalise the postal services. He was speaking during a debate today on a bill which will open up the sector to competition. Ferris claimed that the bill would open the door to privatisation and that… Read more

Removal of financial incentives for regional airports an attack on the West – Doherty

Sinn Féin Transport Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has described the Government’s decision to cut the Public Service Obligation for regional airports as an attack on the West of Ireland. Read more

Health Minister must show that he is competent and protect front line services.

Sinn Féin MLA and vice chair of the Health Committee has slammed the Health Minister for producing a draft budget that will see front line services attacked. Read more

Ó Donnghaile welcomes Ravenhill drugs seizure

Sinn Féin Representative for Pottinger Niall Ó Donnghaile has welcomed today’s seizure of more than £200,000 worth of cannabis in the London Street area of Ravenhill. Read more

McGimpsey fails to tackle swine flu – O’Neill

Sinn Féin MLA and deputy chair of the health committee Michelle O’Neill has stated there are serious concerns to the Ministers approach given that the swine flu mortality figures are only two below the total figure of last years pandemic and dismissed the argument that figures are proportionate to deaths… Read more

Health Minister must remove funding threat to suicide groups – Adams

Sinn Féin West Belfast MP Gerry Adams has condemned the implicit threat by the Minister of Health to the funding for suicide prevention groups. Read more

Time for UUP to remove McGimpsey from Executive

Sinn Féin Assembly member John O’Dowd has called on the UUP to remove their failing Minister Michael McGimpsey from the Executive. Mr O’Dowd’s comments came after the Health Minister announced plans to target public sector workers in his budget plan. Read more

Young Scientist Awards Need Supporting

Sinn Féin Education Minister Caitriona Ruane has congratulated all those schools who entered The Young Scientist of the Year Awards and wished all those who reached the final the best of luck. Read more

Belated Labour Party motion of no confidence welcome – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has welcomed the tabling by the Labour Party of a motion of no confidence in the Fianna Fáil/Green Government. Read more

Sinn Féin Ard Comhairle meeting in Dublin tomorrow

The Sinn Féin Ard Comhairle meets in Dublin tomorrow to discuss preparations for the general election, the controversy surrounding Brian Cowen and Ireland’s current economic situation. Read more

Taoiseach and Government long past sell by date – McDonald

Speaking in Dublin today Sinn Féin Vice President Mary Lou McDonald has said it is time for a new Government, new policies and a new direction. Ms McDonald said the current crisis is not about Brian Cowen or his personal credibility but the credibility of the Fianna Fáil/Green Government and… Read more

Adams to address Donegal North East selection convention

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams will today Sunday, 16 th January, address a convention to select the Sinn Féin candidate to contest the Donegal North East constituency at the forthcoming General Election. The selection convention takes place at the Raddison Hotel, Letterkenny at 4pm. The event will also be addressed… Read more

Adams extends condolences to Harte and McAreavey families

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams this afternoon visited the Harte family home in Tyrone. He was accompanied by Fermanagh South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew. Read more

Adams says Government should go

At a packed selection convention in Letterkenny Padraig MacLochlainn was this afternoon chosen to be Sinn Féin’s general election candidate for Donegal North East. Read more

Cowen prolonging a disastrous Government – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the announcement of Brian Cowen that he intends to remain as Taoiseach and Fianna Fail leader, the Sinn Fein Dáil leader Caoimhghin Ó Caoláin said: Read more

MacLochlainn selected to contest Donegal North East for Sinn Féin

Padraig MacLochlainn was today endorsed as Sinn Féin’s candidate to contest the general election in the Donegal North East constituency. Cllr MacLochlainn addressed hundreds of Sinn Féin members and supporters in Letterkenny saying that his party needs to grasp the opportunity and elect two Sinn Féin TDs in Donegal. Read more

Fianna Fáil heave turning into a farce, General Election now – Ferris

Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris has said if Mícheál Martin has no confidence in Brian Cowen he is only catching up with the rest of us. Read more

Sinn Féin table emergency Assembly question on Swine Flu response

Sinn Féin Assembly Health Committee member Sue Ramsey MLA has said her party have today tabled an emergency question in the Assembly on what measures Michael McGimpsey has taken in response to recent Swine Flu deaths in the North. Read more

SDLP, DUP and UUP ensure their corporate donations remain secret – Doherty

Sinn Féin MP for West Tyrone Pat Doherty has called for an end to the policy of keeping donations to political parties in the Six Counties secret. Mr Doherty has also called for the current threshold of £7500 for reportable donations to be lowered to £500. Read more

Political voices seek urgent meetings in effort to save Quinn jobs

The all-party cross-border political group that supports the retention in Irish ownership of Quinn Insurance Ltd and the proposals that best secure the retention of all existing jobs in Quinn Insurance Ltd in Cavan, in Enniskillen and in Blanchardstown and Navan and elsewhere and that offers the best prospect of… Read more

Housing Minister has questions to answer at Assembly - McCann

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Fra McCann MLA has called on the Social Development Minister Alex Attwood to come before the Assembly to give an explanation on the Housing Executive’s handling of the winter crisis. Read more

De Brún praises John Ging as he leaves Gaza for new post

Bairbre de Brún MEP has paid a warm a glowing tribute today to Director of UNRWA Operations in Gaza John Ging, as the UN announces he will leave Gaza to take up a new post in New York. Read more

Government prepares to draw down IMF loans for zombie banks – Doherty

Speaking today as the Government prepares to draw down the first tranche of €5.8 billion from the IMF Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty said the funds will be given to zombie banks and head straight back out of the country leaving nothing but debt for Irish taxpayers. Read more

Facebook must act against Neil Lennon hate site – McElduff

Sinn Féin Culture spokesperson Barry McElduff MLA has said that the hate crimes against Celtic management and players need to be taken seriously. Read more

Clarke: SDLP have questions to answer on Declan Gormley

Sinn Féin Assembly member Willie Clarke today called on the SDLP and in particular John Dallat and Patsy McGlone who are both members of the Assembly Public Accounts Committee currently investigating procurement failings at NI Water to publicly explain their position on pre-empting the outcome of that PAC inquiry before… Read more

Where is SDLP corporate donor list?

Sinn Féin MP Pat Doherty has accused the SDLP leader Margaret Ritchie of back tracking on a promise to publish the details of the SDLP corporate donors and accused the party of ‘once again joining with the unionists in keeping party donations secret’. Read more

Ireland needs a complete change of direction rather than simply a new Fianna Fáil spin doctor at the helm – Doherty

Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty, responding to Mícheál Martin’s interview on Morning Ireland this morning, has said Ireland needs a complete change of direction rather than simply a new Fianna Fáil spin doctor at the helm. Read more

Orange Hall attackers 'motivated soley by sectarian bigotry' - Gildernew‏

Sinn Féin MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone Michelle Gildernew has branded those responsible for a series of attacks in Co Tyrone over the weekend on Strawletterdallon, Dergina and Mullnahunch Orange Halls as 'motivated solely by sectarian bigotry'. Read more

McGimpsey under pressure to produce his invisible detail on budget – O’Neill

Speaking before a special budget meeting of the health committee Sinn Féin health spokesperson Michelle O’Neill has said its clear that the two Health Economists who will be giving their assessment of the health budget are agreed that the plans set out by the Health Minister, Micheal McGimpsey lack credence. Read more

Spanish government arrests not conducive to search for peace

Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey has stated that the latest arrests by the Spanish government are not conducive to the development of a peace process in the Basque Country. Commenting on recent arrests he said: Read more

Ó Snodaigh calls for an end to recruitment embargo in mental health services

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has called on the Government to end the recruitment embargo in the area of mental health services. Speaking in the Dáil today Deputy Ó Snodaigh said it is a myth that mental health was protected in budget 2011. Read more

Fianna Fáil and Greens still denying the people their say – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the outcome of the Fianna Fáil TDs’ vote of confidence in Brian Cowen, the Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

Taoiseach’s threat of legal action – Questions from Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the threat of legal action from the Taoiseach Brian Cowen during Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil on Tuesday Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

Taoiseach’s threat of legal action – Questions from Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the threat of legal action from the Taoiseach Brian Cowen during Leaders’ Questions in the Dáil on Tuesday Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: “I am taking the opportunity of a public statement to say that the Taoiseach’s dinner with senior figures in Anglo-Irish Bank and… Read more

O'Neill expresses support for family of Liverpool deathrider victim

Sinn Féin MLA Michelle O'Neill has again offered her sympathy and support to the family of Andrew O'Neill today as they come to terms with the verdict and sentencing of the deathdriver who killed him while a student in Liverpool. Read more

Disappointment at loss of sport funding - McElduff

Sinn Féin MLA, who is also the chair of the Culture, Arts and Leisure committee at Stormont commenting on the loss of £50million for severely sporting facilities said: Read more

Adams Criticises Taoiseach decision to take Foreign Affairs

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has criticised the Taoiseach’s decision to take up the Foreign Affairs brief following Micheál Martin’s resignation as Minister. Read more

Ferris accuses Greencore ‘vultures’ of destroying sugar industry

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Agriculture, Martin Ferris TD, has accused Greencore of being vultures who deliberately destroyed the sugar industry in order to engage in property speculation. Deputy Ferris was speaking at a meeting of the Agriculture Committee which questioned Greencore CEO Patrick Coveney on the circumstances surrounding the… Read more

SDLP/UUP no show at OFMDFM Committee

OFMDFM Committee Member Martina Anderson MLA (Foyle) has criticised the SDLP and UUP on their non-appearance at today’s OFMDFM Committee hearing. Read more

Unemployment figures highlight urgent need for special economic zone status - McLaughlin

Sinn Féin Economy Spokesperson Mitchel McLaughlin MLA (South Antrim) has stated that the unemployment figures published today highlight the need for urgent action to be taken in delivering the special enterprise zone status promised by David Cameron. Read more

Multi Departmental approach to NEET needed

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey has stated that there needs to a multi departmental approach to the problem of young people not in employment, education and training (NEET) Read more

"We must stand together to combat institutionalised discrimination in Europe" de Brún

The European Parliament in Strasbourg today passed a resolution condemning attempts by the Lithuanian Seimas to drastically reduce the rights of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender community in the country. Read more

Fundamental health reform needed – Ó Caoláin

Speaking during a Dáil debate on Health Sinn Féin Dail leader and Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said the crisis in the health services pointed to the need for fundamental reform. Read more

Ó Domhniall playing politics with Altnagalvin Radiotherapy Unit – MacLochlainn

Donegal Sinn Féin Councillor Padraig MacLochlainn has responded to the comments of Fianna Fáil Senator Brian Ó Domhniall on the current status of the Radiotherapy Unit in Altnagalvin Hospital in Derry. Read more

Harney facilitating cynical re-shuffle for electoral purposes – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the resignation of Mary Harney as Health Minister, Sinn Féin Dáil leader and spokesperson on Health & Children Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said: Read more

Fianna Fáil stroke treats electorate with contempt – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the prospect of the Taoiseach now carrying out a re-shuffle to fill five of his Cabinet seats with just weeks to go before the General Election, Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said that the move was 'a blatant Fianna Fáil stroke that treats the electorate with… Read more

Government implodes while exodus continues – Morgan

Speaking today after the release of the ESRI Quarterly Economic Commentary, Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Enterprise Arthur Morgan said emigration figures were bound to escalate even further with no Government recovery plan in place. Read more

21 dead and still no statement from the Health Minister

Sinn Féin MLA and vice chair of the Health Committee Michelle O’Neill has slammed the Health Minister, Michael McGimpsey, for his absolute failure to deal with the swine flu crisis following the number of deaths as a result of the virus reaching 21. Read more

General Election must mark sea-change in Irish politics – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has welcomed the setting of the General Election date. He said that while the election could and should still be held earlier than 11th March, there will be widespread relief and satisfaction that the end of this Fianna Fáil/Green Government is now clearly… Read more

McGuinness meets Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor

Sinn Féin Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness MP, MLA has met Cardinal Cormac Murphy O’Connor, the Archbishop Emeritus of Westminster, in relation to the implementation of safeguarding arrangements in the Catholic Church to ensure that this abuse can never be allowed to happen again. Read more

Gildernew concludes review of the LMC

Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA has decided that the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), which is a Non-Departmental Body of her Department, will be reformed to enable it to deliver future services to support the expansion of the red meat industry. Read more

Ruane discusses key issues at NSMC meeting in Armagh

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, today attended the latest meeting of the North South Ministerial Council in Education Sectoral Format in Armagh. Read more

Social Development Minister has left Neighbourhood Renewal groups in the dark – Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast and member of the Social Development committee at Stromont, Carál Ní Chulín has stated that there needs to be immediate clarity from the Minister of Social Development, Alex Attwood, as to the criteria and time span for Neighbourhood Renewal Funding applications. Read more

Minister for Health must intervene in north west cancer services debacle – Doherty

Donegal Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty has called on the Minister for Health and Children to directly intervene with her northern counterpart Minister Michael MicGimpsey who has as of last week, refused to provide funding for the north west radiotherapy unit in Altnegelvin, Derry. Deputy Doherty made his comments in… Read more

Finance Bill: Economic impact assessment for property speculators but none for ordinary people – Doherty

Responding to the publication of the Finance Bill this evening Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has said it is clear that wealthy landlords and property developers still have the ear of Fianna Fáil. Read more

Taoiseach’s announcement will lead to further instability — Adams

Commenting on today’s announcement by An Taoiseach Brian Cowen, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said: “Today’s announcement will lead to further instability." Read more

Sinn Féin won’t take lectures from Enda Kenny — McDonald

Responding to comments made by Enda Kenny at the Alliance Party conference today Sinn Féin deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald said: Read more

Sinn Féin the drivers for change across the Island of Ireland - O'Dowd

Sinn Féin is the voice of an idea, that idea is firmly based on the principles of the 1916 proclamation, that idea and the voice is firmly based on the right of the people of Ireland to self determination. Read more

Greens should pull out now – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has called on the Green Party to pull out of Government and “end this travesty of democracy”. Read more

Sinn Féin opposes Finance Bill and calls for election now

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has said that Fine Gael’s offer to facilitate the passage of the Government’s Finance Bill has exposed the fact that Fine Gael policies are no different to those of Fianna Fáil. He said the Taoiseach should call a General Election now. Pearse Doherty… Read more

Greens exit Government in ignominy - McDonald

Speaking before the Green Party's announcement that it was pulling out of government Sinn Féin vice President Mary Lou Mc Donald said the instability and chaos of the last week had made the Greens continuation in government untenable. Read more

Sinn Fein opposes ‘grubby deal’ to get Finance Bill through before election — Adams

Commenting on the latest political developments, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said: “What the Taoiseach should do now is go to Áras an Úachtarán immediately and seek the dissolution of the Dáil. “The instability must be brought to end." Read more

Finance Bill should not be put before the Dáil - General Election now – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Fein Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said that the Finance Bill should not be put before the Dáil and that the Dáil should be dissolved straight away. Read more

Finance Bill should not be put before this Dáil – Doherty

Speaking ahead of a meeting of Finance Spokespeople in the Department of Finance this afternoon Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty said the Finance Bill should not be put before this Dáil. Read more

Fine Gael and Labour engaged in political fraud – Doherty

Speaking after attending the meeting of Finance Spokespeople in the Department of Finance today Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty accused both Fine Gael and Labour of engaging in political fraud after they agreed to facilitate the passage of the Finance Bill through the Dáil this week despite claiming to be opposed… Read more

Locally enacted legislation needed to protect elderly - Anderson

Sinn Féin MLA and equality spokesperson Martina Anderson has stated that legislative protections must be put in place as a matter of urgency following the shocking revelations of the way a care worker treated a patient with Alzheimers Disease. Read more

Health Minister forced to make statement on Swine Flu - Ramsey

Sinn Féin MLA and member of the health committee at Stomont, Sue Ramsey, has stated that the only way to get the Health Minister to speak on the swine flu crisis was to place a priority question to compel him to come to the floor of the Assembly Read more

Nelson Street Big Picture Development plans must not go ahead – Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast and member of the Social Development Committee, Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the fact that the proposed development in Nelson Street by Big Picture Developments Ltd has been blocked by Belfast City Council. Read more

Fine Gael and Labour propping up discredited government in its dying days – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Dublin South Central TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has criticised Fine Gael and the Labour Party for helping to prop up ‘a discredited government in its dying days’. Read more

SDLP in disarray over Southern election

Sinn Fein MP Pat Doherty has claimed the SDLP are in ‘disarray’ when it comes to their approach to the upcoming General election in the south. Read more

Kennedy must rule out tuition fee increase once and for all - Ramsey

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey and spokesperson on higher education has called for the Education and Learning Minister, Danny Kennedy, to once and for all, rule out any increase in tuition fees. Read more

IMAS report highlights urgent need for new Women and Childrens hospital at RVH -Ramsey

Sinn Féin MLA for west Belfast and member of the Health Committee at the Assembly, Sue Ramsey, has stated that damning report by IMAS which has only come to light is a clear indication that the Health Minister must now bring forward as a priority the Women and Children’s Hospital… Read more

Housing Executive governance problems still remain – Maskey

Sinn Féin MLA for west Belfast Paul Maskey has said that this morning’s statement by the Social Development Minister is welcomed in that investigations are ongoing, but that a number of serious issues remain unanswered. Read more

Sinn Féin to meet with Planning body over Nelson Street concerns– Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast and member of the Social Development Committee, Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the fact that the proposed development in Nelson Street by Big Picture Developments Ltd has been blocked by Belfast City Council however will be meeting with the planning authorities to seek clarity… Read more

Ferris calls for intervention in the Aer Lingus situation

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Workers Rights Martin Ferris TD, has called on the Government to intervene in the ongoing impasse at Aer Lingus, to ensure that the company agrees to talks in order to resolve differences over new working arrangements. Read more

There is a credible alternative – Adams

Speaking to the media today Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said there is a credible alternative to bailing our banks and burdening ordinary citizens and future generations with massive debt. Read more

Kelly condemns north Belfast bomb alert

North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has slammed those responsible for causing major disruption on the Antrim Road this evening following phone calls claiming that there is an unexploded bomb on the Antrim Road. Read more

Finance Bill the end product of a terrible Government – Doherty

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty described the Finance Bill as the depressing end-product of a government whose political career spans some of the most disastrous economic policies ever witnessed. Read more

Adams comments on Cameron claims

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams commenting on a claim by British PM David Cameron that he has accepted a post as “Crown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead’ said. Read more

Adams comments on Cameron claims

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams commenting on a claim by British PM David Cameron that he has accepted a post as “Crown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead’ said: Read more

Tragically predictable - politics as usual with passing of Finance Bill – Doherty

Commenting after today’s vote on the Finance Bill, Sinn Féin’s Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty said, tragically it was politics as usual as evidenced by the Independent’s guessing game of which way the would vote, and the eventual passing of the Finance Bill. Read more

Sinn Féin continue to oppose private development at Nelson Street

Sinn Féin MLA for north Belfast Gerry Kelly has commented after a Party delegation met with Belfast Town Planners in relation to controversial proposals for development at Nelson Street in the City. Read more

West Tallaght jobs secure after crisis meeting with Minister

Sinn Féin Councillor Seán Crowe today attended a crisis meeting with Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment as part of a constituency delegation of politicians to discuss the threat to 75 jobs in the West Tallaght area. Read more

Action needed to save jobs in Ardara – Doherty

Reacting to the news that the iconic Gallagher’s Bakery in Ardara is to shed 124 jobs, Donegal Sinn Féin TD has said that urgent action needs to be taken, even in this late stage to save as many jobs as possible. Doherty said that this will be a devastating blow,… Read more

More of the same from new Fianna Fáil leader – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Dáil Leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has criticised the new Fianna Fáil leader Mícheál Martin for refusing to engage in an inclusive debate with all party leaders during the upcoming election campaign. Read more

Pathetic DUP performance in Westminster

Sinn Féin MP Pat Doherty today said the irony of DUP MPs Nigel Dodds and Ian Paisley Óg standing up in the British House of Commons demanding that Gerry Adams remains as an MP is not lost on anybody. Read more

Inclusive, all-party debate needed says Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has said that the main party leaders’ debate in the forthcoming general election needs to be inclusive of all party leaders. Read more

Adams congratulates Kilkenny marchers

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has congratulated eight men who marched from South Kilkenny to Dublin in protest at the lack of job opportunities available to young people in Ireland. Read more

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has highlighted the work of Women’s Aid in supporting children through providing training for teachers.

The Minister was speaking at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry where she presented certificates to primary school teachers participating in the Women’s Aid pilot training course Developing Social Guardians to Deliver Helping Hands Programme. Read more

Sinn Fein Support the Developing Social Guardians scheme.

Sinn Féin MLA John O’Dowd has congratulated the Minister of Education Caitriona Ruane in supporting The Developing Social Guardians scheme. Read more

Council reveals Short Strand air pollution levels are too high – Ó Donnghaile

Sinn Féin Representative for Pottinger Niall Ó Donnghaile has once again raised ‘serious concerns’ about the high levels of air pollution in and around the Short Strand area. Read more

Adams welcomes announcement of Dáil dissolution

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has welcomed the announcement that the Dáil will be dissolved next Tuesday. Read more

Doherty calls for five way economic debate with Finance Spokespersons

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has challenged the Finance Spokespersons from the other Dáil parties to a live election debate on each party’s economic proposals. Read more

Fine Gael trip to Europe an election stunt – Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has described Fine Gael’s trip to Europe to meet Jóse Manuel Barosso about the EU/IMF deal as an election stunt. Read more

Sinn Féin would reverse Government cuts and introduce new Budget – Adams

Speaking in Dublin as the Finance Bill passed through the Oireachtas, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said Government cuts, which Fine Gael and Labour intended to implement would be deeply damaging. In Government, Sinn Féin would reverse the cuts and introduce a new Budget. Read more

Ó Caolain responds to Lenihan attack on finance policy

Responding to an attack on his party's finance policies from Brian Lenihan today Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin has said his party's policy is the only one that protects the Irish people from the massive debt of the banks while also protecting low and average income earners from… Read more

Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael/Labour singing from same hymnsheet – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Fein Dail leader Caoimhghin O Caolain has said that the real choice in the General Election is between the economic alternative offered by Sinn Féin and the strategy now in place to which Fianna Fail, Fine Gael, Labour and the Greens have signed up. Read more

Social welfare money being put into Anglo bondholders pockets – Doherty

Speaking today Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty has said the money saved through cuts to social welfare payments is being spent on a maturing bond in Anglo Irish Bank. Read more

Labour flip flopping on tax policy to suit Fine Gael – McDonald

Sinn Féin Vice President Mary Lou McDonald has accused the Labour Party of flip flopping on its taxation policy on the eve of the general election after the party dropped its proposal to introduce a new 48% tax on individual earnings over €100,000. Read more

Temple Street to close for four weeks while billions continue to be pumped into banks – McDonald

Sinn Féin Vice President and Dublin Central election candidate Mary Lou McDonald has said the proposed closure of Temple Street Children’s Hospital for four weeks this year is a direct consequence of this Government’s economic approach and the consensus for cuts. Read more

Adams to address need for a realignment in Irish politics

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams is to make a statement tomorrow in Drogheda which will emphasise the need for a realigment in Irish politics. Read more

Time to realign Irish politics

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has welcomed the decision by the Labour Party to seek a longer period for dealing with the deficit. Sinn Fein has argued from the outset for a six year period for reducing the deficit. Read more

Report shows dysfunction of HSE – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said the report by psychiatrist John Hillery on the closure of the acute psychiatric unit in South Tipperary General Hospital, Clonmel, shows how dysfunctional senior management of the HSE has been. Read more

January 2011 Archives (Latest News)

January 1, 2011

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