May 2012 Archives (Latest News)

Workers’ rights a priority for Sinn Féin: Cullinane

Sinn Féin’s Senator David Cullinane, the party’s spokesperson on workers’ rights and political reform, has announced that the party will introduce a private members’ bill to the Dáil, appropriately on May Day, international workers’ day, to attempt to protect workers in redundancy situations. Read more

Government Budget threat outrageous – McDonald

Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD has accused Finance Minister Michael Noonan of “threatening the electorate in an attempt to secure support for the Austerity Treaty.” Read more

Post Office Services Needs Expanded

Sinn Féin MLA Oliver McMullan has welcomed the report by the Consumer Focus Post calling for Post Offices to begin offering more services. Read more

Marian Price should be moved to hospital immediately

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann has repeated the call for Marian Price to be moved from Hydebank Prison to an outside hospital facility. Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes under 18 sunbed ban

Sinn Féin MLA and chair of the Health Committee, Sue Ramsey, has welcomed the legislation being brought into effect today that will ban under 18’s from using sunbeds. Read more

MLA Welcomes A8 Start Date

Sinn Féin MLA Oliver McMullan has welcomed the news that the Larne to Belfast dual carriageway will begin in June this year. Read more

PTSB interest rate cut a step in right direction

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has today welcomed the 0.5% cut in variable rate mortgage interest rates as a “welcome step in the right direction” but called on the bank and government to do more “to bring PTSB into line with other state owned Irish banks.” Read more

O’Brien welcomes Oireachtas report on capacity legislation

Speaking following publication by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality of a report on the Scheme of the Mental Capacity Bill, Sinn Féin Equality Spokesperson Deputy Jonathan O’Brien said he welcomed the report and expressed support for calls by a number of Irish NGOs seeking legislation based… Read more

Concern expressed as Taoiseach dismisses legislation to protect employees

Sinn Féin Workers’ Rights Spokesperson Senator David Cullinane and the party’s Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation Spokesperson Peadar Tóibín TD today launched the Protection of Employees (Amendment Bill) 2012. Read more

Government must work to protect workers’ rights – Adams

The Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD today challenged the Taoiseach on the failure of the government to protect workers’ rights. Read more

Modern language teaching is essential - Adams

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has welcomed the decision given by the Taoiseach in the Dáil today that he will review the government’s decision to end the modern languages programme in primary schools. Read more

Absence of legislation leads to nightmare for employees – Stanley

The Sinn Féin spokesperson on the environment, community and local government Brian Stanley TD has called on government parties to “end the nightmare that has become a reality for thousands of redundant workers by supporting Sinn Féin's Protection of Employees Bill.” Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes announcement on pilot scheme to end strip searching

Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch has welcomed the Justice Minister David Ford’s announcement in the Assembly today that a pilot scheme will be introduced that will see technology used instead of strip searching in prisons. Read more

Cullinane calls on government to honour commitments on workers’ rights

Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane has called on the government to uphold the calls of the Seanad to extend the period of notice for workers to be made redundant, and to back the Sinn Féin Protection of Employees (Amendment) Bill. Read more

Austerity Treaty is bad for jobs and growth – Tóibín

Sinn Féin jobs and enterprise spokesperson Peadar Tóibín TD has today said that “the Austerity Treaty is bad for jobs and growth and if passed on May 31st will hamper any prospect of economic recovery.” Read more

Adams challenges Taoiseach on government’s failure to deal with sexual abuse allegations in Lourdes

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD today challenged the government on its failure to take action on the allegations of sexual abuse allegations in Lourdes Hospital Drogheda. Read more

Record of BSoS as defender of people’s interests challenged

Sinn Féin MP Conor Murphy has said that those people claiming that a British Secretary of State sitting at the British Cabinet table is an effective way to represent citizens here only need to look at the recent record to see that this argument doesn’t hold water. Read more

Fishery Harbour appointments announced

The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has announced the appointment of a new chairman and three new members of the Fishery Harbour Authority. Read more

Ní Chuilín launches Ground Zero 360 Exhibition

The Culture Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín has launched the Ground Zero 360 exhibition at the Public Record Office in the Titanic Quarter. Read more

Mobile rural coverage and roaming charges raised at Stormont - Flanagan

Sinn Féin Enterprise Spokesperson Phil Flanagan has today attended an event with representatives from the four main mobile phone networks in Parliament Buildings. Mr Flanagan used the opportunity to discuss existing coverage issues within Fermanagh & South Tyrone and to seek the abolition of roaming charges across Ireland. Read more

SDLP Leader's critism a nonsense - Maskey

Sinn Féin’s Alex Maskey MLA (South Belfast) said SDLP leader Alasdair McDonnell’s criticism of the call for scrapping of the NIO is non-sensical. Read more

Review process for Domiciliary Care Allowance must be changed – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Social Welfare Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has called on the government to change the process by which domiciliary care allowance payments are reviewed. Read more

Crowe expresses support for legislation to enhance rights of lesbian and gay teachers

Sinn Féin’s Education Spokesperson Deputy Seán Crowe has voiced support for legislation going before the Seanad today that if implemented, will enhance the human rights of lesbian, gay, and bisexual teachers. Read more

Gá le plé ar an Straitéis do na Luathbhlianta – Ó Clochartaigh

Tá géarghá le plé ar an Straitéis do na Luathbhlianta, dar le Seanadóir Shinn Féin, Trevor Ó Clochartaigh. Ag eascairt as na ciorruithe atá curtha i bhfeidhm do thuismitheoirí aonair ag an Aire Coimirce Sóisialaí, Joan Burton, ceisteanna faoin soláthar seirbhísí cúram leanaí, scéalta sna meáin maidir le mí-úsáid páistí,… Read more

Oireachtas members call on Irish Cement to pay workers

Sinn Féin President and Louth TD Gerry Adams today hosted a meeting in the Dáil for Irish Cement workers from Castlemungret in County Limerick and Platin in County Meath. Trade union representatives from SIPTU, UNITE and the TEEU along with workers from both plants attended the briefing for TDs and… Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes Prison Service Strategy

Speaking following the publication of the Irish Prison Service Three Year Strategic Plan 2012-2015, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson Deputy Jonathan O’Brien broadly welcomed the document stating that it was a promising move from the Irish Prison Service, and added that there is now an onus on the Minister for Justice… Read more

O’Brien comments on end of Vita Cortex dispute

Speaking following today’s resolution of the Vita Cortex dispute, Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central Deputy Jonathan O’Brien said that it was a testament to the workers involved in the 139 day sit-in. Read more

Adams applauds resolve of Vita Cortex workers

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has welcomed the resolution of the five month long sit-in by workers at Vita Cortex in Cork.The Sinn Féin leader said: “I want to applaud and extend congratulations and solidarity to the Vita Cortex workers in Cork. Over five months they displayed enormous courage… Read more

Martin McGuinness responds to Cardinal Brady allegations

Responding to the BBC programme on the response of Cardinal Sean Brady in a Church investigation into child abuse carried out by Fr. Brendan Smith, Sinn Féin MP Martin McGuinness said: Read more

Minister not dealing with reality: Tóibín

Today the Minister for Social Protection claimed that the policies of the government were working, as unemployment was stabilising. This is in stark contrast to all recent economic data the including the downturn in visitor numbers, the fact that we are in a second recession and that the same is… Read more

Government must spell out cost of a Yes vote – Doherty

Sinn Féin finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has today challenged the Government to “spell out where it will get the €6 billion that will be required to meet the 0.5% structural deficit target if the Austerity Treaty is passed”. Under the terms of the Austerity Treaty Ireland will have to meet… Read more

Support for Hollande in France exposes rank hypocrisy of SDLP – Murphy

Sinn Féin economy spokesperson, Conor Murphy MP, MLA has accused the SDLP of rank hypocrisy in expressing support for Francois Hollande in the French Presidential election while at the same time calling for a ‘Yes’ vote in the Austerity Referendum in the 26 Counties. Read more

McDonald welcomes Construction Contracts Bill

Sinn Féin Public Expenditure and Reform Spokesperson Mary McDonald TD this morning welcomed the introduction of the Construction Contracts Bill legislation to the Dáil noting it is time now to take this long awaited and desperately needed legislation home. Read more

Reilly welcomes Animal Welfare Bill but says farmers’ rights must be protected by Special Investigations Unit

Sinn Féin Senator Kathryn Reilly has said that she welcomes the new Animal Welfare Bill which was discussed in the Seanad today. Read more

Government must spell out cost of a Yes vote – Doherty

Sinn Féin finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has today challenged the Government to “spell out where it will get the €6 billion that will be required to meet the 0.5% structural deficit target if the Austerity Treaty is passed”. Under the terms of the Austerity Treaty Ireland will have to meet… Read more

Deadline approaches for submitting Single Applications

Agriculture Minister, Michelle O’Neill today issued a timely reminder to farmers of the closing date for the return of completed Single Applications. Read more

Utility Regulator crucial to protecting consumers' interests - Flanagan‏

Sinn Féin Energy Spokesperson Phil Flanagan he said that the role of the Utility Regulator is crucial to protecting consumers. Read more

Root and Branch Reform of Fire Service Management Needed

Sinn Féin MLA Oliver McMullan has called for root and branch reform of the Fire Service management following news that the recruitment of retained firefighters has been suspended. Read more

Facebook Organ Donor Initiative Welcomed

Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Sue Ramsey has welcomed the Facebook link to allow more people to sign up for organ donation. Read more

Bairbre de Brún to step down from European Parliament

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD today announced that the party’s MEP representing the north, Bairbre de Brún, has submitted her resignation to the European Parliament. Read more

Rural Transport Fund voucher scheme welcomed

Sinn Féin MLA Chris Hazzard has said that community groups and voluntary organisations should apply for the Rural Transport Voucher when organising trips over the months of July August and September. Read more

Martin McGuinness responds to Cardinal Brady allegations

Responding to Tuesday night’s BBC programme on the response of Cardinal Sean Brady in a church investigation into child abuse carried out by Fr. Brendan Smith, Sinn Féin MP Martin McGuinness said: “Two years ago when this issue first emerged, I described the situation as grave and said that Cardinal… Read more

Mac Lochlainn briefs Diplomatic Corp in Leinster House

Sinn Féin Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD and his Assembly colleague Conor Murphy MP MLA today briefed the Diplomatic Corp in Leinster House. Speaking after the briefing Deputy Mac Lochlainn said the Austerity Treaty is bad for both Ireland and Europe. Read more

Sinn Féin stands against water charges

Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on environment, community & local government, Brian Stanley TD and Assembly economic spokesperson, Conor Murphy MLA, today launched Sinn Féin’s policy paper reform of water services. Read more

Sinn Fein kicks off Rural Ireland Consultation

This morning Sinn Fein's spokespersons on Rural Affairs, Deputy Martin Ferris and Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh began their consultation and engagement with Rural Ireland. Read more

People must decide between austerity or jobs and growth – Adams

Speaking today at the launch of the Austerity Treaty referendum poster campaign Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams TD said, “The choice before the people on May 31st is clear, people must decide if they are for more austerity or for investment in jobs and growth.” Read more

Sinn Féin MLA calls for an end to futile shootings

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann said that another shooting and maiming of a young person in Twinbrook will solve nothing and is unacceptable. Read more

Inquest evidence shows IRA Volunteers were executed

Sinn Féin MLA Francie Molloy said that it was clear from the inquest into the deaths of IRA Volunteers Dessie Grew and Martin McCaughey that they were summarily executed. Read more

O’Dowd attends official opening of new building for Gaelscoil Éanna

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, today attended the official opening of new accommodation for Gaelscoil Éanna, an Irish-medium primary school in Glengormley. Read more

Sinn Féin councillor to speak at Red-Green Alliance conference in Copenhagen

Meath Sinn Féin councillor Joe Reilly will this weekend represent the party at the Red-Green Alliance conference in Copenhagen. Read more

Neilstown canvass shows strong public opposition to Austerity Treaty

Speaking during a canvass in Neilstown, North Clondalkin Sinn Féin representative and campaign director Eoin Ó Broin said that, “every single house we called to said they were voting No to the Austerity Treaty”. Read more

Martin's bellicose statements an attempt to make Fianna Fáil relevant — Adams

Speaking at an event in Belfast this evening on the 31st anniversary of the death on Hunger Strike of Bobby Sands, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said: Read more

Doherty challenges Noonan to produce figures

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has today challenged Minister for Finance Michael Noonan to “produce his figures on the cost of a Yes vote in the Austerity Treaty referendum”. Read more

France and Greece reject austerity – Mac Lochlainn

Speaking as the results of the French and Greek elections come in Sinn Féin Foreign Affairs spokesperson Padraig Mac Lochlainn said that “the people of France and Greece have said No to austerity and by a clear majority supported parties arguing against austerity and in favour of investment in jobs… Read more

French and Greek elections – A massive blow against austerity

Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald has said that the election results in France and Greece are “a massive blow against the failed policies of austerity in Ireland and across Europe.” The Dublin Central TD said “A No vote in Ireland on May 31st will strengthen the hand of… Read more

SDLP support for ex-prisoner dicrimination challenged

Responding to remarks by the SDLP MLA Alban Maginness indicating that his party was minded to support Jim Allister’s discrimination bill against former prisoners, Sinn Fein Assembly member Raymond McCartney said: Read more

No vote will strengthen demand for a growth agenda

Speaking in the aftermath of anti-austerity election results in France, Greece, Italy, Britain and Germany Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD said: Read more

Anderson calls for EU 'Collaborate to Innovate' event for Derry

Sinn Féin Junior Minister, Martina Anderson MLA has called on 'InterTradeIreland' to bring the EU 'Collaborate to Innovate' project event to Derry. Read more

What is the SDLP’s position on Austerity? – Murphy

Sinn Féin economy spokesperson, Conor Murphy MP, MLA has called on SDLP leader, Alastair McDonnell in light of his wholesome praise of Francois Hollande's vision for a jobs and growth stimulus package to urge the leader of his sister party in Dublin, Eamon Gilmore to adopt the same approach. Read more

Minister having negative impact on local government reform

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan said Minister of the Environment Alex Attwood is clearly failing to support councils within the local government reform process announced under the Review of Public Administration. Read more

Fracking warning from DCAL Minister must be heeded - Flanagan‏

Sinn Féin MLA Phil Flanagan has said that a warning from DCAL Minister Caral Ni Chuilin during Question Time in the Assembly on the potential damages that fracking could have on fish stocks and fisheries in Fermanagh must be heeded. Read more

O’Brien calls for action after Cork stabbings

Speaking in the aftermath of two deaths from knife wounds, in Cork over the weekend, Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, Deputy Jonathan O’Brien called on the Minister for Justice to rethink his strategy of cutting garda numbers and closing stations in light of this type of crime and… Read more

O’Brien calls for action after Cork stabbings

Speaking in the aftermath of two deaths from knife wounds in Cork over the weekend, Sinn Féin Justice Spokesperson and TD for Cork North Central, Deputy Jonathan O’Brien called on the Minister for Justice to rethink his strategy of cutting Garda numbers and closing stations in light of this type… Read more

Labour and Fine Gael must support survivors of institutional abuse

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD called on Labour and Fine Gael to step up and provide survivors of institutional abuse and their families with the redress, support and services they need. Read more

Honahan comments on centralised European response to bank crisis welcome but €64 billion too late for Ireland – Doherty

Sinn Féin TD and Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty tonight welcomed Governor of the Central Bank Patrick Honahan's comments on a centralised European approach to recapitalising weak banks, saying the idea was close to Sinn Féin policy. Read more

Department of Health strategy statement confirms cuts of more than €2 billion – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the publication by Health Minister James Reilly of the Department of Health Statement of Strategy 2011-2014, Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD said: “The Statement of Strategy from the Department of Health offers nothing new but repeats the promises of reform already repeatedly made by Health… Read more

McLellan pays tribute to survivors of residential institutions

Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Tourism, Arts, Heritage and Sport today paid tribute to the survivors of residential institutions and stated that this issue would never have reached the light of day only for their campaigning for justice. Read more

Treaty offers nothing but more of same – recession, business closures and unemployment: Tóibín

The Sinn Féin jobs and enterprise spokesperson Peadar Tóibín TD has today responded to the launch of Business for Ireland saying “ll the Treaty offers is more of the same – recession, business closures and unemployment.” Read more

JobBridge programme displaces real jobs – Ó Snodaigh

Sinn Féin Social Protection Spokesperson Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has said it is outrageous that Minister Burton is extending the JobBridge programme which is displacing real jobs. Read more

Adams ready and willing to debate treaty with Enda Kenny

Speaking regarding the proposed debate on the Austerity Treaty between Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams and An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, the Sinn Féin campaign director Eoin O’Broin said: Read more

Government continues to undermine the rights of workers

Sinn Féin TD Brian Stanley today challenged the government on new provisions in the Protections of Employees (Temporary Agency Staff) Bill. The Bill removes the right of some agency workers to seek parity with similar workers doing the same job and allows the employer to set a new pay terms… Read more

Ó Caoláin urges inquiry on state response to Michael Shine

Sinn Féin health & children spokesperson, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD, has called for an inquiry into how the various branches of the State and the health services responded to the abuse perpetrated by disgraced former consultant Michael Shine in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda. Read more

DCA processes are "not fair": O Snodaigh

Speaking against the government amendment to the motion tabled by the Dáil’s Technical Group on Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA), Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Social Protection said that far from being fair and transparent, the application process is flawed. Read more

Sinn Féin’s rural Ireland consultation process continues

Sinn Féin president, Gerry Adams TD, will be in Carrick-on-Shannon tomorrow, (Thursday 10 May 2012) with Deputy Martin Ferris to meet community groups which are bearing the burden of the attack on rural Ireland by the Fine Gael-Labour coalition government. Read more

Thirty-five Oireachtas members sign petition on mass Palestinian prison hunger strike

Thirty-five Oireachtas members, including independents and deputies and senators from all political parties and groups in the Dáil and Seanad have signed their names to a petition calling for an immediate response to the ongoing mass hunger strike of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Tomorrow a cross party group of… Read more

Ellis gives cautious welcome to independence for Shannon Airport

Sinn Féin Transport spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD has given what he called "cautious welcome" to news that Shannon Airport is to be set free from D.A.A. control and allowed to operate as an independent airport. Read more

Sinn Féin publishes submission to the review of the White Paper on Irish Aid

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Pádraig MacLochlainn TD today presented his party's submission to the Review of the White Paper on Irish Aid at Leinster House. The submission was compiled by Deputy Mac Lochlainn and the party's advisor on Foreign Affairs, Kaniah Cusack. Read more

Government must spell out consequences of new powers for Commission and Court of Justice – Doherty

Speaking at a press conference in Dublin today, Sinn Féin finance spokesperson, Pearse Doherty TD said there is huge concern that the Austerity Treaty would give the European Commission new powers to force Ireland into an “economic partnership programme” which would allow the commission to dictate what is included in… Read more

Government must legislate for collective bargaining

Speaking in the Dáil this morning Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD called on the Tánaiste to deliver on the Programme for Government commitment to reform legislation on workers’ rights. The Labour leader failed to commit to a date by which the legislation will be delivered on. Read more

Labour leadership blindly supporting austerity – McDonald

Speaking in the Dáil today Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD described Labour Leader Eamon Gilmore’s assertion that austerity will deliver growth as absurd. Read more

Government must act on Shared Ownership repossessions

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson Dessie Ellis TD has called on the government to deal with the crisis in Shared Ownership mortgages. He spoke during a Dáil debate, called by the deputy, to discuss “a growing problem which will not just go away” Read more

Reilly calls for “All-Ireland” EU Presidency

Sinn Féin Senator Kathryn Reilly has called for next year’s Irish presidency of the EU to be an “All-Ireland” Presidency. Read more

Stanley questions cost of Irish Water

Sinn Féin spokesperson on environment, community and local government, Brian Stanley TD, today challenged environment minister, Phil Hogan TD, to reveal how much the establishment and running of Irish Water will cost the exchequer. Read more

Government needs to act to assist Wilson Workers

The government needs to take action as a matter of urgency to tackle the increasing trend of Employers refusing redundancy payment according to Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers’ Rights, David Cullinane. Read more

Government policy will take 26 years to tackle unemployment

Sinn Féín Spokesperson for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation said Peadar Tóibín TD has Simon Coveney’s claim that the government’s job strategy is working is ridiculous. Deputy Tóibín said it would take 26 years at the current rate of job creation to return to the 2007 unemployment level. Read more

Adams challenges negative campaigning of Yes side

The Sinn Féin leader was in Leitrim and Roscommon on Thursday for a series of meetings with community and voluntary groups. The focus of the visit is the impact of the government’s austerity policies and the likely effect of the Austerity Treaty on rural Ireland. Read more

Ferris calls on government to legislate on debt collection

The Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Martin Ferris TD has called on the government to introduce legislation to regulate debt collection. Read more

O’Brien calls for public scrutiny of local authority accounts

Sinn Féin TD for Cork North Central, Deputy Jonathan O’Brien speaking in the Dáil today called on the government to support the Comptroller and Auditor General (Amendment) 2012 in order to allow public scrutiny of local authority accounts. Read more

Government referendum booklet designed to mislead the public – Ó Caoláin

Sinn Féin health spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has accused the Government of “distributing deliberately misleading information in their referendum booklet”. Read more

Lessons must be learned from Nazareth House report – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the publication of the HIQA report on Nazareth House in Buncrana, Co Donegal, where seven people died of flu-related illness, Sinn Féin health spokesperson, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD, said it is essential that lessons are learned and implemented by all care homes, the HSE and the health minister. Read more

Ellis condemns slow progress on NAMA units

Sinn Féin Housing spokesperson, Dessie Ellis TD, has condemned the government for slow progress on delivering social housing from NAMA and the lack of clarity about the process. Read more

Jobs Fair another reminder that austerity is not working – Adams

Speaking today during a canvass in Co Louth Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has said that, “today’s jobs fair at the RDS in Dublin is another stark reminder that austerity is not working”. The Louth TD said that the Austerity Treaty, if implemented, would deepen the recession and make… Read more

All to play for in final three weeks – McDonald

Speaking today the Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald said: “with less than three weeks to go before polling day it is all to play for.” Read more

Hogan must legislate for regulation of waste industry

Sinn Fein's Aengus Ó Snodaigh TD has today called on Minister for Environment Phil Hogan to immediately introduce the promised legislation to regulate the domestic and commercial waste industry. Read more

Austerity Treaty is bad for jobs – McDonald

Speaking in response to reports that an EU-wide jobs pact may be agreed in advance of the May 31st referendum, Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald said that: “the Austerity Treaty is bad for jobs and bad for growth” and called for “the rejection of the Treaty and the… Read more

16 insulin pumps lying unused at Our Lady of Lourdes Drogheda

Sinn Fein President and TD for Louth Gerry Adams has described as “deeply worrying” the revelation that just under €50,000 worth of medical equipment is currently lying unused in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda as a result of the government’s recruitment embargo. Read more

Ó Donnghaile congratulates award winner Paul McCrory

Sinn Féin Councillor Niall Ó Donnghaile has commended Short Strand youth and community worker Paul McCrory, on being awarded the Community Relations Council’s ‘Special Endeavour Award’ earlier today. Read more

O'Neill in Fisheries Reform talks

Fisheries Minister Michelle O'Neill has attended the Agriculture and Fisheries Council in Brussels to discuss reform of the Common Fisheries Policy. Speaking after the Council, Minister O'Neill said: Read more

Group to focus on tackling scourge of human trafficking

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann said the increase in human trafficking in the North and throughout the whole island was an extremely worrying development. Read more

Flanagan calls for Crown Estates assets transfer to Executive

Sinn Féin Enterprise Spokesperson, Phil Flanagan MLA (Fermanagh/S.Tyrone) has called for transfer of all responsibility for the Crown Estate inventory to the Executive, so that local communities can benefit from the substantial benefits from the offshore renewable energy opportunities being exploited on our doorsteps. Mr Flanagan was commenting following an… Read more

Agri-Crime Needs Separate Targeting

East Antrim Sinn Fein MLA Oliver McMullan said the separation of ‘agriculture-crime’ from general rural crime would assist in helping target resources to tackle the issue. Read more

O’Neill briefs MEPs on CAP Reform Response

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill today hosted a breakfast briefing in Brussels for Irish MEPs and selected COMAGRI MEPs to discuss her response to the CAP reform proposals. Read more

Sinn Féin welcomes extra education funding

Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay has welcomed the announcement by Education Minister John O’Dowd that extra money has been made available for education. Read more

Government needs a real plan to get people back to work – Sinn Féin

Speaking at a press conference today the Sinn Féin jobs spokesperson Peadar Tóibín has said that “only Government led investment in job creation will tackle the unemployment crisis and lead to growth and recovery.” Deputy Tóibín said “The fact is the government can’t have it both ways. You cannot have… Read more

O’Dowd announces further funding allocations

Education will benefit from further funding allocations of £72million over the next three years following a review of the education budget. Read more

Sinn Féin MLA convenes meeting with Health Minister on South Tyrone Hospital

Sinn Féin Fermanagh & South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew has secured a meeting this evening with the Health Minister Edwin Poots to raise concerns over proposals to reduce the opening hours at the Minor Injuries Unit at South Tyrone Hospital. Read more

Fostering Needs Full Support of Society

Sinn Féin MLA Caitriona Ruane has met with Colm Donaghy Chief Executive of the Belfast Trust to discuss current fostering arrangements to see how we can improve on them to ensure that the needs of the children and young people are paramount. Read more

SF shock at body parts retention revelations

Commenting on the revelation that body parts of victims of the conflict were retained over many decades without the knowledge of families by a number of agencies, Sinn Fein Assembly member Gerry Kelly said: Read more

People will not recognise the economy Minister Noonan is talking about

Sinn Fein Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty, responding to Minister for Finance Minister Michael Noonan has said that: “Most people listening to Michael Noonan today will not recognise the economy he is talking about.” Deputy Doherty also said that the Austerity Treaty would make ordinary people’s lives much harder “because it… Read more

Selling state’s wealth makes no sense: McDonald

Sinn Féin Public Expenditure and Reform Spokesperson Mary Lou McDonald TD has described the Government’s commitment to selling off state assets as a “bad economic policy that actively works against the public interest”. Read more

HET Report Leaves Many Questions Unanswered.

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has said that the HET report into the death of IRA Volunteer Seamus Bradley leaves many questions unanswered. Read more

Government needs to respond to groundswell for growth measures

The government’s insistence on austerity is at odds with demands across Europe for growth and investment strategies, according to Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane. Speaking on the Order of Business today, the Waterford senator added that the government’s refusal to invest in job creation measures was holding the country back… Read more

Crowe commends North’s education minister for securing additional funding

Sinn Féin’s Education Spokesperson Seán Crowe welcomes this week’s announcement from the North’s education minister, John O’Dowd that a further £72million will be spent over the next three years following an education budget review Read more

Adams Urges Government to Support 1916 Relatives

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD this morning attended the state commemoration of the 1916 rising at Arbour Hill cemetery. This afternoon in the Dáil during Leaders' Questions the Sinn Féin leader raised the deplorable state of the National Monument at 14-17 Moore Street which he described as a ‘slum’.… Read more

Tóibín welcomes long overdue Credit Guarantee Bill

Peadar Tóibin, Sinn Féin spokesperson for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation today said the government’s Credit Guarantee Bill is long overdue but a welcome initiative. Read more

O’Brien calls for solidarity with LGBT community on International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia

Sinn Féin Justice and Equality Spokesperson Deputy Jonathan O’Brien today commended the LGBT groups that appeared before the Oireachtas Justice, Equality and Defence Committee and called for solidarity with the LGBT community on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia. Read more

HIQA Tallaght Hospital Report shows need for action on hospital care – Ó Caoláin

Commenting on the HIQA Report on Tallaght Hospital, Sinn Féin Health & Children spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD said the report is an indictment of the management and resourcing of hospital services because of the failures of successive governments. Read more

Economy, Irish unity and Austerity Treaty to top agenda at Sinn Féin Ard Fheis in Killarney

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty today announced details of the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis, which will take place in the INEC in Killarney on 25/26 May. Topping the agenda at the Ard Fheis will be jobs and growth, Irish unity and the Austerity Treaty. The theme of the Ard… Read more

Progressive voices across Europe standing together against failed Austerity – MacLochlainn

Sinn Fein’s Padraig MacLochlainn has said today that “No is the European answer to the Austerity Treaty.” Read more

Ó Caoláin demands independent inquiry into Dublin and Monaghan bombings

Sinn Féin TD for Cavan/Monaghan Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin today raised in the Dáil the need for an independent international inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 17 May 1974. Read more

Equality proofing of housing policy essential to ending LGBT discrimination – Ellis

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Housing Dessie Ellis TD has called for increased measures to equality proof housing policy in order to insure and end to mistreatment of LGBT people when seeking their rights and entitlements. He made his comments as part of discussions taking place for International Day Against Homophobia… Read more

Dangerous drug must not be administered to Irish troops overseas

Speaking in the Dáil today, Sinn Féin Defence Spokesperson Deputy Jonathan O’Brien questioned the Minister for Defence Alan Shatter on the practice of prescribing anti-malarial drug lariam to members of the Defence Forces in the context of pending legal actions against the Defence Forces as a result of this. Read more

Bruton comments outrageous – Doherty

Sinn Féin TD Pearse Doherty has described as outrageous comments from Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton that he would ask Europe if Ireland could vote again if the austerity treaty is defeated on May 31st. Read more

Government campaign has moved from threats to insults

Speaking today Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said that “the government’s yes campaign has moved from threats to insults”. The Louth TD told the media that “having spent the first two weeks of the campaign threatening people Fine Gael has spent the last week insulting them”. Three weeks into the… Read more

Adams announces Dáil motion for preservation and restoration of 1916 battlefield site

Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams TD, today announced a Dáil motion to be proposed next week, with the support of over 50 opposition TDs, to save and restore the 1916 battlefield site at Moore Street, Dublin. Read more

Government ministers need to stop insulting the electorate and debate the contents of the Treaty

Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald, canvassing in East Wall in her Dublin Central constituency this morning said “There has been a lot of distraction and confusion since the start of this campaign. With less than two weeks to go it is about time that government ministers stepped up… Read more

Government admits it has no plan to deal with economic and currency crisis – Tóibín

Speaking today Sinn Féin jobs spokesperson Peadar Tóibín TD said “Pat Rabbitte has admitted what everyone already knew, that this government is out of their depth and has no plan to deal with the economic or Eurozone currency crisis.” He said: “The Government is failing at home and in Europe… Read more

Doherty to meet Paterson In London

Sinn Féin's Pat Doherty MP, MLA (West Tyrone) will travel to London this evening for a series of meetings with the three main political Parties tomorrow. Read more

Irish government being left behind as debate across EU moves on – Mac Lochlainn

Sinn Féin Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pádraig Mac Lochlainn has challenged the government to move beyond inaccurate soundbites and actually debate the content of this Treaty. Read more

Incapacity Benefit Appeal Process Needs Reviewed

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has welcomed the support for his motion on the reassessment of people in receipt of Incapacity Benefit. Read more

Full Disclosure on Human Tissue Retention Needed

Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch has said that the there needs to be full disclosure over the retention of human tissues by the PSNI and DPP. Read more

ESM funding will be available irrespective of how the people vote on Austerity Treaty – Sinn Féin

Speaking in response to comments made today by pro-Austerity Treaty campaigner Pat Cox, Sinn Féin campaign director Eoin Ó Broin has said that, “ESM funding will be available in 2014 if required by the Government irrespective of how the people vote on the Austerity Treaty.” Read more

Research into Improving Attendance in Schools serving Deprived Areas

The Department of Education has today published research on improving attendance in schools serving deprived areas. Read more

Full Disclosure Need on Human Organ Retention

Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch has said that the there needs to be full disclosure over the retention of human tissues by the PSNI and DPP. Read more

O’Neill endorses new industry-led approach on animal health

Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill today met industry representatives to discuss an innovative new industry-led approach to dealing with animal health issues. At the meeting, the industry-group, the Cattle Health Steering Group, set out its proposals to create a new organisation which will seek to tackle production diseases and conditions that… Read more

Sinn Féin MLAs press Justice Minister on Marian Price case

Sinn Féin MLA Jennifer McCann said she has pressed Justice Minister David Ford to take the necessary steps to have Marian Price moved to an outside hospital. Read more

Review of Benefit Assessment Needed

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has welcomed the support for a Sinn Féin motion on the reassessment of people in receipt of Incapacity Benefit. Read more

Adams extends condolences to family of Máire MacSwiney Brugha

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has extended his sympathies and condolences to the family of Máire MacSwiney Brugha who died in Dublin yesterday. Read more

Credit Unions have the potential to ease economic pressure - Flanagan

Sinn Féin Enterprise Spokesperson, Phil Flanagan has welcomed the statement by DETI Minister Arlene Foster on reform of the Credit Union regulations. Read more

Campaign needs a serious debate between leaders of Yes and No campaigns – Mac Lochlainn

Speaking today Sinn Féin Foreign Affairs spokesperson Padraig Mac Lochlainn said: “With such a large number of voters still undecided, this campaign needs a calm and considered head to head debate between the leaders of the yes and no sides.” The Donegal deputy called on Enda Kenny “to provide the… Read more

Adams condemns government amendment to national monument motion

In response to the government’s proposed amendment to a motion to be put to the Dáil this evening by over 50 opposition TDs, Sinn Féin president, Gerry Adams said that the original motion: “reflects the wish of the descendants of the 1916 leaders and Irish citizens everywhere to protect and… Read more

Time for an EU wide ban on goods from illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories- Sinn Féin

Speaking today during questions to the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Pádraig MacLochlainn, asked the Tánaiste if he was resolutely in favour of the EU introducing a ban on settlement goods while Israel continued with building of illegal settlements in the West Bank… Read more

Adams responds to RTE time for Taoiseach on treaty

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams has responded to the announcement that Taoiseach Enda Kenny will be afforded time on RTÉ television next Sunday to address the issue of the Austerity Treaty. Read more

Destruction of Moore St monument would be ‘cultural vandalism’ :Cullinane

The proposal to knock down the majority of the National Monument on 14-17 Moore St would constitute cultural vandalism, according to Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane. Read more

Used Tyres Need Disposed of Properly

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has welcomed the committee report on the management of used tyres and has called for the recommendations to be implemented. Read more

Foras Na Gaeilge Motion Too Premature

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Ó hOisín has said that the motion on funding of Foras Na Gaeilge was premature and that the full consultation needs to be printed before making important decisions. Read more

Under Occupancy Penalty Needs Addressed

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has said that the Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland makes provision for those people who will be penalised by the Under Occupancy Policy. Read more

Disappointment at McCausland's rejection of Green New Deal

Sinn Féin Enterprise Spokesperson, Phil Flanagan MLA has said that it is regrettable that the Green New Deal will not proceed as planned and that the £12 million ear marked for the scheme will instead be given to the Housing Executive to deliver energy efficiency measures. Read more

Crown Estate Monies Should Stay In The North

Sinn Féin MLA Oliver McMullan has called on local Councils who pay rent to the Crown Estate for the seabed to come together and put forward the case to have the present rental arrangements abolished for good. Read more

McKay welcomes “Walk to School Week”

Sinn Féin Education spokesperson Daithi McKay has welcomed the start of “Walk to School Week” (21st May to 25th May) Read more

Full Disclosure Need on Human Organ Retention

Sinn Féin MLA Sean Lynch has said that the there needs to be full disclosure over the retention of human tissues by the PSNI and DPP. Read more

Bioscience and Technology Institute an unmitigated failure

Commenting on a report of an investigation into the Bioscience and Technology Institute (BTI) project, Sinn Féin Public Accounts Committee Chairperson, Paul Maskey MP MLA, said: Read more

Local authorities best placed to run commercial vehicles tests: Ellis

Sinn Fein’s transport spokesperson, Dessie Ellis TD, has voiced his opposition today to the government’s plan to remove responsibility for licensing and testing of commercial vehicles from local authorities. Read more

Austerity Treaty a terrible way to make economic policy – Doherty

Speaking today at a press conference Sinn Féin finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty said: “Enshrining the Austerity Treaty and its harsh fiscal rules in international law and giving it the protection of our constitution will make it almost impossible to change in the future. Read more

O’Dowd: digital technologies can enhance pupils’ learning

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has restated the value that digital technologies can add to pupils’ learning experiences. Read more

Hogan attacking local democracy: Stanley

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Environment, Community & Local Government, Brian Stanley TD, has today challenged Minster Hogan to stop using the mantra of cost cutting meanwhile his real intention is to attack local democracy and independent agencies. Read more

Onus on government to protect Moore Street-GPO battlefield site

Speaking tonight after a cross-party motion, proposed by Sinn Féin and supported by 50 TDs on the preservation and restoration of the 1916 battlefield site, at Moore Street, Dublin, was opposed by the government in the Dáil, Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams TD, said: “There was a serious effort to… Read more

Support Ireland – Vote No!

Speaking at the launch of the party’s “Euro 2012 Support Ireland” referendum campaign poster, Sinn Féin European Affairs spokesperson Senator Kathryn Reilly said that, “On May 31st the electorate can support Ireland by saying no to this bad Treaty.” Read more

Alliance slammed over Community Relations Move

Responding to the decision of the Alliance Party to withdraw from the cross party working group on Community relations, Sinn Fein MLA Martina Anderson said: Read more

Crowe express alarm at Higher Educatio Authority report and implications for third-level fees

Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Seán Crowe, TD, has expressed alarm that third-level fees might rise dramatically over the next three years. Deputy Crowe was commenting on a report on funding for third-level education, being drafted by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) that is likely to recommend the introduction of annual… Read more

Sinn Féin congratulates Vita Cortex workers

Sinn Féin have congratulated the workers involved in the long running Vita Cortex dispute, and commended them for their resilience. According to the Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers’ Rights, David Cullinane, “the Vita Cortex workers have been an inspiration to us all, and have provided a superb example of how… Read more

O’Brien calls for Dáil debate on school students denied child benefit

Following the refusal of the Ceann Comhairle to allow time for a Dáil debate on the issue of changes to child benefit arrangements which will impact on school-going children, Sinn Féin Cork North Central TD Jonathan O’Brien, called on the government to urgently address the matter. Read more

Good Friday Agreement Committee hears of breach of key commitment by the British Government

The Oireachtas Good Friday Agreement Implementation Committee today received a presentation by the Human Rights Consortium. Read more

O’Dowd visits Rossmar Special School in Limavady

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, today visited Rossmar Special School in Limavady to meet with pupils, staff and governors. Read more

The Armagh Bramley Apple is a pick above the rest – O’Neill

Agriculture and Rural Development Minister today congratulated the Armagh apple industry on the recent award from Europe for Armagh Bramley Apples. Read more

Sinn Féin shares concerns over new benefit transfer process

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady said that the he shares the concerns of Disability Action over the process to be used in transferring claimants from the DLA to the new PIP (Personal Independence Payment) benefit system. Read more

O’Neill committed to helping address youth unemployment in rural areas

Addressing youth unemployment in rural areas is a key priority for Rural Development Minister Michelle O’Neill. Read more

Martin Ferris TD welcomes delegates to Ard Fheis 2012

Martin Ferris TD welcomes delegates to Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Martin McGuinness speech – Ard Fheis 2012

Martin McGuinness speech – Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Paul Maskey MP/MLA speech - Ard Fheis 2012

Paul Maskey MP/MLA speech - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Councillor Matt Carthy – Keynote address on Political reform

The political system has failed the people of this State. Corruption and self-interest has deepened the divide between politics and the people. Decisions have not been made in the public interest. Citizens do not have a sense of ownership of their own State. Trust has broken down. Read more

Senator Trevor O Clochartaigh – Arts and culture keynote

This Ard Fheis has heard much about the economy, and rightly so, as these are very tough times for many. Over the course of the last number of years, the Government in the south has taken much from ordinary people. However, as Oscar Wilde once stated, “Ordinary riches can be… Read more

Declan Kearney - Reconciliation Speech - Ard Fheis 2012.

Declan Kearney - Reconciliation Speech - Ard Fheis 2012. Read more

Martin Ferris – Uniting Ireland keynote

The unification of our island as a sovereign Republic remains at the heart of our project. We are confident that aim is shared by the majority of the Irish people, and we are confident that will achieve that objective. Read more

Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD – International section keynote

Fraternal greetings to our friends and comrades from home and abroad and welcome to this year’s Ard Fhéis in beautiful Killarney from Sinn Fein’s Office of Foreign Affairs and our international department. Read more

Senator Kathryn Reilly – Austerity Treaty keynote

In a few days’ time the people of this state will be asked to vote on a treaty which will bring an extra 8 billion euro in cuts on top of what we have already suffered because of the failure of the previous and current government and the EU itself… Read more

Carál Ní Chuilín speech by northern Minister for Culture, Arts & Leisure at Ard Fheis 2012

Carál Ní Chuilín speech by northern Minister for Culture, Arts & Leisure at Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Eoin Ó Broin – Keynote address on the Austerity Treaty

The Austerity Treaty is bad for Ireland and bad for the European Union. Read more

Martina Anderson - Irish Unity and peace Process - Ard Fheis 2012

Martina Anderson - Irish Unity and peace Process - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Raymond McCartney - Justice - Ard Fheis 2012

Raymond McCartney -Justice Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Jonathan O’Brien – Justice keynote

Sinn Féin has been at the forefront of pushing for positive change to transform the delivery of justice on the island of Ireland for over a century. Read more

Pat Doherty MP/MLA - Housing, enviornment & transport - Ard Fheis 2012

Pat Doherty MP/MLA - Housing, enviornment & transport - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Brian Stanley TD - housing,environment & transport - Ard Fheis 2012

Brian Stanley TD - housing,environnment & transport - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Dessie Ellis TD - Housing - Ard Fheis 2012

Dessie Ellis TD - Housing - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Diane Nolan – Youth unemployment - Ard Fheis 2012

Diane Nolan – Youth unemployment - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Conor Murphy MP/MLA - Fiscal Autonomy - Ard Fheis 2012

Conor Murphy MP/MLA - Fiscal Autonomy - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Councillor Kathleen Funchion - Impact of austerity - Ard Fheis

Councillor Kathleen Funchion - Impact of austerity Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Martin Ferris TD - Ard Fheis

Martin Ferris TD - Ard Fheis Read more

Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD - jobs and growth against austerity - Ard Fheis 2012

Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD - jobs and growth against austerity - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Martin McGuinness – Ard Fheis 2012 – Saturday 26th May

Martin McGuinness – Ard Fheis 2012 – Saturday 26th May Read more

Chris Hazzard MLA - agriculture - Ard Fheis

Chris Hazzard MLA - agriculture - Ard Fheis Read more

Álanna Campbell - youth jobs - Ard Fheis

Álanna Campbell - youth jobs - Ard Fheis Read more

Noeleen Reilly - Impact of austerity on the ground

Noeleen Reilly - Impact of austerity on the ground - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Brian Stanley TD – the impact of austerity on the ground - Ard Fheis 2012

Brian Stanley TD – the impact of austerity on the ground - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Eoin Ó Broin – Jobs - Ard Fheis 2012

Eoin Ó Broin – Jobs - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Mairead Farrell – Our generation can deliver Irish unity - Ard Fheis 2012

Mairead Farrell – Our generation can deliver Irish unity - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Councillor Matt Carthy – All-Ireland economy - Ard Fheis 2012

Councillor Matt Carthy – All-Ireland economy - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Martina Anderson MLA/MEP - sectarianism - Ard Fheis

Martina Anderson MLA/MEP - sectarianism - Ard Fheis Read more

Lynn Boylan – Importance of all-Ireland institutions - Ard Fheis 2012

Lynn Boylan – Importance of all-Ireland institutions - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Niall Ó Donnghaile - Comhairleoir Niall Ó Donnghaile – Uniting Ireland - Cumann Seán Máirtín / Seán Treasaigh ag labhairt ar son Rún

Niall Ó Donnghaile -Uniting Ireland - Comhairleoir Niall Ó Donnghaile – Cumann Seán Máirtín / Seán Treasaigh ag labhairt ar son Rún Read more

Sandra McLellan TD – the need for an all-island soccer team - Ard Fheis 2012

Sandra McLellan TD – the need for an all-island soccer team - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Mary Lou McDonald TD – Public services - Ard Fheis 2012

Mary Lou McDonald TD – Public services - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Simon Gillespie – Third level education - Ard Fheis 2012

Simon Gillespie – Third level education - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Caoimhghín O Caoláin TD – Our vision for health - Ard Fheis 2012

Caoimhghín O Caoláin TD – Our vision for health - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

John O'Dowd - Education - Ard Fheis

John O'Dowd - Education - Ard Fheis Read more

Jonathan O’Brien TD – Education - Ard Fheis 2012

Jonathan O’Brien TD – Education - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Senator David Cullinane – Public services - Ard Fheis 2012

Senator David Cullinane – Public services - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Sue Ramsey MLA - Health - Ard Fheis

Sue Ramsey MLA - Health - Ard Fheis Read more

Meabh Burns - education - speaking in Favour of motion 136

Meabh Burns - education - speaking in Favour of motion 136 Read more

Óisín O’Connell – Rural schools - Ard Fheis 2012

Óisín O’Connell – Rural schools - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Councillor Imelda Munster – local hospital campaign - Ard Fheis 2012

Councillor Imelda Munster – local hospital campaign - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Caoimhghin Ó Caoláin TD - health section - Ard Fheis 2012

Caoimhghin Ó Caoláin TD - health section - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Sue Ramsey MLA - health - Ard Fheis 2012

Sue Ramsey MLA - health - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

John O’Dowd MLA - education - Ard Fheis 2012

John O’Dowd MLA - education - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Sandra McLellan TD - Social welfare - Ard Fheis

Sandra McLellan TD - Social welfare - Ard Fheis Read more

Alex Maskey MLA - social welfare - Ard Fheis

Alex Maskey MLA - social welfare - Ard Fheis Read more

Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD - Economy - Ard Fheis 2012

Padraig Mac Lochlainn TD - Economy - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Conor Murphy MP/MLA - economy - Ard Fheis

Conor Murphy MP/MLA - economy - Ard Fheis Read more

Senator David Cullinane - Workers’ rights - Ard Fheis 2012

Senator David Cullinane - Workers’ rights - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Chris Hazzard MLA - Rural Ireland - Ard Fheis 2012

Chris Hazzard MLA - Rural Ireland - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Martin Ferris TD - rural Ireland - Ard Fheis

Martin Ferris TD - rural Ireland - Ard Fheis Read more

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh - Rural Ireland - Ard Fheis 2012

Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh - Rural Ireland - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Gerry Adams Presidential address - Ard Fheis 2012

Gerry Adams Presidential address - Ard Fheis 2012 Read more

Adams reiterates call for Kenny to debate Treaty

Commenting on this evening’s TV broadcast by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams TD said: “This evening’s broadcast by An Taoiseach merely highlights, once again, the need for a real debate involving the man who leads the campaign to have the Austerity Treaty passed by the people. Read more

Voters should trust their instinct and vote No – McDonald

Speaking today Sinn Féin Deputy Leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on voters to “trust their instincts and vote no this Thursday.” The Dublin Central TD said that, “The positive thing to do on Thursday is to vote No. A strong no vote is in the best interests of Ireland… Read more

Retail sales figures another indicator that government policy is failing

The latest figures for retail spending found that the value and volume of retail sales has fallen annually since this Labour and Fine Gael came to power by, -1.8 and -2.7%. Read more

SDLP figures on Girdwood just don’t add up – Gerry Kelly

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly said that recent comments by the SDLP regarding the Girdwood site had more to do with in-party fighting than delivering housing for the people of North Belfast. Read more

Noonan’s claims on Budget 2013 are dishonest – Doherty

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has described as “dishonest” claims made today by Minister for Finance Michael Noonan that a no vote would make next year’s budget tougher. Read more

Minister needs to take urgent action to stop GP surgeries using 0844 numbers – Sue Ramsey

Sinn Féin MLA Sue Ramsey has called on the Health Minister to take urgent action to stop GP surgeries using 0844 numbers. Read more

Access to RTÉ/TG4 Digital confirmation welcome – McElduff

Sinn Féin Culture Spokesperson, Barry McElduff has welcomed confirmation by Communications Minister Pat Rabitte and his British counterpart, Ed Vaizey that TV viewers in the North will be able to receive TG4 and RTÉ One and Two on Freeview following digital TV switchover on October 24th. Read more

Boiler Replacement Scheme Welcomed

Sinn Féin MLA Oliver McMullan has welcomed the expansion of the Boiler Replacement Scheme due to commence in September 2012. Read more

Sinn Féin seeks Judicial Review on ESM veto

Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams this morning confirmed that Pearse Doherty’s legal team wrote to the Referendum Commission on Friday challenging the Commission’s assertion that the opportunity for a veto on the ESM was now gone. Sinn Féin firmly believes that this is not correct. A Judicial Review was lodged… Read more

Report highlights benefits of school book lending scheme – Deputy Seán Crowe

Sinn Féin’s Education Spokesperson Seán Crowe, TD, has supported the findings of a report compiled by the Department of Education that suggests school book rental schemes could reduce family bills for school books by as much as 80%. Read more

Sinn Féin receive update on Lansdowne Hotel staff and buying interest

Gerry Kelly MLA along with councillors Tierna Cunningham and Conor Maskey met today with representatives from Lansdowne Court Hotel Administrator, Deloitte seeking in relation to staff rights in the context of redundancy. Read more

Pearse Doherty welcomes special sitting of High Court on ESM Veto

Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty has welcomed the decision of the High Court to hold a special sitting at 8pm this evening to hear his application for a Judicial Review in relation to the Referendum Commissions comments on May 3rd that the government no longer had a veto in… Read more

Pearse Doherty welcomes significant judgment from High Court

Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson Pearse Doherty TD has described this morning’s judgment from the High Court as “very significant” and said it vindicates his decision to take the matter to court in advance of the referendum. He said it is now clear that the view of the Referendum Commission on… Read more

Live register figures point to failure of austerity

Speaking on the release of this month’s live register figures Peadar Tóibín TD Sinn Féin spokesperson on Jobs. Enterprise and Innovation said; Read more

Must Be Clarity on Plastic Bag Levy

Sinn Féin MLA Cathal Boylan has said there must be clear guidelines issued to consumers and businesses before the introduction of the plastic bags levy Read more

Narrow Water Bridge SEUPB Appeal Successful

Sinn Féin MLA Caitriona Ruane has welcomed the decision by the Special European Union Programmes Body (SEUPB) to reinstate the Narrow Water Bridge project for consideration for funding. Read more

Heart-breaking accidents highlighted during Home Accident Prevention Week

Sinn Féin MLA Francie Molloy hosted an event at the Assembly on Monday that signaled the beginning of the Home Accident Prevention Week in the North. Read more

Gunmen return to loyalist victim’s home

West Belfast MLA Jennifer McCann said the shooting of a 28-year-old in Thames Street last night was the second time that gunmen had come to the house. In 1998 loyalists shot dead the father of last night’s shooting victim at the same house. Read more

Voting NO is the positive thing to do: Adams

In a final appeal before polling in the Austerity Treaty referendum, Sinn Féin president, Gerry Adams TD said: Read more

Closure of St Basil's a sad day - Crowe

Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD Seán Crowe has said that the closure of St Basil’s Training Centre in Tallaght was a sad day for educationalists and the wider Traveller Community. Read more

1,000 Olympian and Paralympian hopefuls choose North as training venue for 2012

Sports Minister, Carál Ní Chuilín today announced three more Paralympic teams will be training in Ireland ahead of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Read more

O’Dowd opens new school building at St Joseph’s

Education Minister, John O’Dowd, has officially opened a new school for St Joseph’s Primary School, Madden. Read more

Attack on Sinn Féin office condemned

Sinn Féin has condemned an attack on the constituency office of Deputy Leader and Dublin Central TD Mary Lou McDonald this morning. Read more

Crowe commends VTOS graduates at Tallaght award’s ceremony

Speaking after presenting Vocational Training Operational Scheme (VTOS) and Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) certificates in an award’s ceremony held in the Dublin Institute of Technology, Tallaght, Sinn Féin Education Spokesperson Seán Crowe, TD said: Read more

May 2012 Archives (Latest News)

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