Ard Fheis 2014 Motions

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  Motion 164. (Amended) This Ard Fheis condemns the Russian government’s persecution of its Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) citizens and the so-called ‘gay propaganda law’ introduced by the Russian President, Vladimir Putin, on June 30 last year.

  This Ard Fheis supports the Principle Six Campaign, which condemns the discriminatory anti-gay Russian legislation which is not just wrong but runs totally against the principles of the Olympic spirit at a time when Russia is hosting the Winter Olympics at Sochi.

  We call on the International Community to send the strongest message possible that discrimination against anyone on the grounds of sexuality is wrong. Human rights, such as freedom of assembly and equality regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, are universal and it is important that they are respected all over the world.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle
  Martin Hurson Cumann, UCC

• 

  Motion 155. (Amended) This Ard Fheis calls for a package of measures to be examined to tackle the under-representation of youth in public and political life. Options to be considered should include the possibility of youth quotas, education and support measures and any other measure that may help counter the forces in society which deter young people from getting involved in politics.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  National Youth Committee

  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 133. (Amended) This Ard Fheis restates its opposition to nuclear power and our call for the closure of the Sellafield Nuclear power plant. This Ard Fheis commits to examine all emerging energy technologies with a view to developing policy on these new technologies.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle
  Cumann Pádraig Ó Cadhain/Margaret Joyce, Galway

• 

  Motion 105. (Amended) This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish Government to introduce legislation, based on the Sinn Féin Private Members’ Bill published in 2013, to limit the extortionate interest rates charged by money lending companies in Ireland who prey on the most vulnerable members of our communities.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle
  John James Kelly/Damien Brolly Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 98. (Amended)This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish Government to make third-level education more accessible by exploring the possibility of increasing the income bracket for receiving some form of a grant to €75,000 per annum, per household. This increase will allow for grants to be allocated where the student is from a household with two average income earners. This, accompanied by a guarantee that fees will not rise over €3,000 per annum, will make education more accessible.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle

  Clancy/O’Callaghan Cumann, Limerick

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  Motion 94. (Amended) This Ard Fheis calls for the 26 County Education Minister to follow the example of the Six County Minister John O'Dowd by carrying out a feasibility study into the potential of making free school transport available to all pupils attending national and secondary schools outside the school boundaries.

  At present, pupils cannot avail of the service due to criteria set by the Department of Transport that you may only avail of the service depending on the distance the pupil is living from their school. This puts huge pressure on parents to get their family to school and it is especially a danger in rural areas where there are no footpaths and children have to walk on roads that have a large volume of traffic.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle
  Pádraig Mhichéal Airt Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 82. (Amended) This Ard Fheis:
  - Highlights the fact that 7,000 people die in Ireland every year from tobacco-related diseases.
  - Stresses that it is of the upmost importance that children and young people are dissuaded from beginning to smoke.
  - Notes that the tobacco industry has been using more creative and innovative measures to appeal to young people, including attractive and colourful packaging, flavourings such as chocolate, and packaging shapes.
  - This Ard Fheis therefore supports measures such as some of those contained within the EU Tobacco Products Directive which seeks to limit the tobacco industry’s negative influences on children.
  - This Ard Fheis calls for an all-island implementation of standardised packaging.
  - This Ard Fheis calls for products proven to help smokers to quit to be available free of charge for those wishing to avail of them.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED
  Ard Chomhairle
  Logue/Marley Cumann, Dublin

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  Motion 80. (Amended) This Ard Fheis recognises the need for additional funding for Autism and ASD diagnosis and research

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Ard Chomhairle
  Andy O’Sullivan Cumann, Cork

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  Motion 21. (Amended) Zero hour contracts have legal implications for workers’ rights and protections. They are not good for workers or for society. Zero hour contracts weaken the labour movement, lessen the tax take and increase dependency on the state.
  
  This Ard Fheis:
  • Demands that the right to respect and dignity in the workplace is enshrined in law and reflected in decent pay and good working conditions.
  • Calls for the abolishment Zero Hour Contracts and to make such contracts illegal.
  
  • Calls on the governments to acknowledge that Zero hour contracts create an unequal balance in term of rights and obligations that seriously disadvantages workers.
  
  • Demands the governments accept that Zero Hour contracts have a particular impact on women and people with limited formal education, and that it acknowledges that conscious exploitation of vulnerable workers extracts a huge cost on people in terms of human dignity and self-esteem, on family life and on entire communities.

  • Tasks the incoming Ard Chomhairle with considering the issue of zero hour contracts and consulting with the relevant stakeholders, including the Trade Union movement on how best to tackle this issue.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige

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  Motion 7. (Amended) This Ard Fheis believes that the JobBridge scheme is beyond repair following the latest in a long line of abuses and the ongoing refusal of the government to acknowledge the many systemic flaws in the scheme.

  Acknowledging that some individuals have had a positive experience, overall the JobBridge scheme displaces existing paid work, defers real job creation, depresses wages and exacerbates underemployment. It also offers a significant advantage in the form of state funded free labour to exploitative employers against which good employers who want to pay decent wages are finding it increasingly difficult to compete.

  Calls for a new state supported internship programme with proper monitoring and controls, including pre-placement checks and consultation with trade unions where a collective agreement exists, to prevent displacement of paid work and ensure meaningful employment-enhancing training. The design of the programme must respect the principle that an internship should be a benevolent act by employers and all productive work must be paid for.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  James Connolly Cumann, Dublin

  John Joe Sheehy Cumann, Kerry
  National Youth Committee
  Brian Campbell/Seán Mulvoy Cumann, Galway
  Donegal Comhairle Ceantair
  Clancy/O’Callaghan Cumann, Limerick

• 

  Motion 4. (Amended) This Ard Fheis:
  - Expresses concern at the levels of regional disparity across Ireland, particularly the significant differential between rural and urban communities in terms of economic prosperity.
  - Notes the failure of government job-creation agencies to appropriately address the continuing existence of regional disparities in terms of foreign direct investment (FDI) in the south-east, the west and along the Border corridor.
  - Further notes the failure of the Irish Government and some Executive departments to effectively decentralise government services and create public sector jobs in deprived communities.
  - Welcomes the commitment of successive Sinn Féin Ministers for Agriculture and Rural Development to transfer public sector jobs out of Belfast into more rural areas.
  - Calls for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, through the workings of the North/South Ministerial Council, to put in place an effective strategy to establish regional clusters and ensure government-sponsored investment and job creation are spread around the country.
  - Further calls for the further exploration of the potential social and economic benefits of the decentralisation of public sector jobs away from current clusters and into both rural and urban areas of high unemployment and social need.

  AMENDED MOTION PASSED

  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  South Down Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion Emergency 10. This Ard Fheis noted the massive cuts by the Irish Government and its failure to recognise and support the rights of Gaeilgeorí which have led to the resignation of the Language Ombudsman Seán Ó Cuirréain.

  We commend Seán Ó Cuirréain for his principled stance and support the recent initiative by Conradh na Gaeilge to mobilise popular and political opinion in defence of language rights.

  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion Emergency 9. This Ard Fheis notes the recent report of the Committee of Experts on the application by the British Government of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages.

  • We support its recommendations in respect of the application of the Charter in the north of Ireland.

  • We call on the British Government to implement these recommendations and to honour its obligations undertaken at St. Andrews.

  • We call on the political parties in the north and particularly in the DUP and UUP to play their full part in this.

  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion Emergency 8. This Ard Fheis, in light of the recent scandal relating to the Central Remedial Clinic and the failure of the Irish government to support the Sinn Féin Charities (Amendment) Act 2014, calls for full implementation of the Charities Act of 2009 in order to prevent any repeat of this abuse by a small minority of organisations and calls for Justice Minister Alan Shatter to stop dragging his feet and;

  • Fully regulate the sector and ensure full compliance.

  • Ensure greater public accountability and to protect against abuse of charitable status and fraud

  • Include the ‘advancement of human rights’ in the definition of ‘charitable status’ ensuring organisations established in the future to protect human rights can raise funds to carry out their functions.

  • Restore public confidence in the charity sector and the huge contribution they make to society.

  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

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  Motion Emergency 7. That this Ard Fheis calls on the government immediately to seek solidarity funding from the European Union and to commit itself to support areas most badly affected by recent and predicted future storm damage and to take measures to tackle the worsening coastal erosion being caused by such storm conditions.

  Ard Chomhairle

  Connacht/Uladh Cúige

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  Motion Emergency 6. This Ard Fheis expresses its deep sadness at the death of Nelson Mandela; passes on its condolences to Mandela’s family, friends, and comrades. It notes that: -Mandela spent his long life bravely fighting Apartheid, racism and injustice and the struggle he led resonated with people around the world.

  • Mandela was an internationalist and a strong supporter of Irish people’s right to self-determination. He was supportive of an inclusive peace process in Ireland and an advocate of the Irish Good Friday Agreement.

  • He led by example and we thank him, and the ANCs, for using their experience in their own difficult peace talks to assist Sinn Féin.

  • In Mandela's death we echo and reaffirm his famous words, that the Irish and South Africans have "suffered in common and are tied together by unbreakable bonds of friendship and solidarity."

  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion Emergency 5. This Ard Fheis sends solidarity greetings to Margaretta D'Arcy who is currently imprisoned in Limerick jail; calls for her immediate release; reiterates our continued opposition to foreign militaries using Shannon Airport to wage war; and calls on the Government to immediately end this practice which breaches Irish neutrality.

  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

  Munster Cúige

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  Motion Emergency 4. This Ard Fheis calls for;

  The full disclosure to the families regarding meetings held in January 2014 for families who lost loved ones in 2013 and before with the HSE, due to alleged bed shortages for people suffering severe mental health issues which required immediate medical intervention, but were denied for unknown reasons and resulted in death.

  Also that the issue of promised full mental health services in Co. Wexford following the closure of St. Senan’s acute 24/7 bedded services promised by successive governments are fulfilled and honoured within the county immediately. Wexford has one of the highest rates of suicide per capita in the 32 counties of Ireland; we are calling for a full 24/7 acute bedded service to be re-instated in Co. Wexford as a matter of urgency.

  Fr. Murphy/Manchester Martyrs Cumann, Wexford

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  Motion Emergency 3. This Ard Fheis:

  • Welcomes the European Court of Human Rights judgment in O’Keeffe v Ireland and the finding that Ireland violated Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights stating that “No one shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”

  • Acknowledges that the State failed Louise O’Keefe by not preventing the abuse she suffered and further failed her by not providing an effective remedy to the violation of her rights

  • Believes that the State attempted to prevent justice and resolution of this case and

  • Commends Ms. O’Keefe for her courage and bravery and calls upon the Government to bear responsibility for her experience and that of others who suffered abuse in schools

  • Calls on the Government to immediately resolve other outstanding cases where people suffered abuse in schools and ensure full compliance with the ECHR judment

  • Calls on the Taoiseach to come before the Dail as a matter of urgency and apologise on behalf of the State to Louise O’Keeffe and all victims of abuse in schools for the failures of this and previous Governments.

• 

  Motion Emergency 2. That this Ard Fheis reaffirms our support for the Ballymurphy Massacre Campaign and the families of those 11 innocent people killed by British State forces in Ballymurphy between 9th and 11th August 1971, and commend the families for their determination and their long campaign for justice. That we extend solidarity and our support for the campaign demands, including;

  • Independent panel of investigation examining the circumstances surrounding all of the deaths

  • The British government to issue a statement of innocence

  • The British government to issue a public apology

  That this Ard Fheis also welcomes the commitment given by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny to the Ballymurphy families on 30th January 2014 to support their campaign in search for truth and justice, including the establishment of an Independent Panel of Investigation, and now urge him to act upon this by talking directly to his British counterpart and securing from the British Prime Minister a similar commitment.

  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

  Ballymurphy Martyrs Cumann, Belfast

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  Motion Emergency 1. That this Ard Fheis notes;

  • the massive amounts of money being spent on establishing Uisce Éireann, including over €85 million on consultants,

  • €490 million being taken from the Local Government Fund, which includes the Local Property Tax, and put into Uisce Éireann,

  • the previous failure of the Minister for the Environment Phil Hogan to answer questions in the Dáil or Committee for the costs of establishing the water company,

  • the lack of democratic accountability as existed when water services were under the responsibility of local authorities,

  • the failure to provide a role for the National Consumer Agency in the water reform process and to fulfil their statutory role which is to act as the consumer voice and independently promote and protect the interests and welfare of consumers, including the negative impact of household water charges.

  Reiterates;

  • its opposition to the introduction of domestic water charges and any future moves to privatise Irish Water as has recently been approved by Minister Pat Rabbitte in relation to another Bord Gáis subsidiary Bord Gáis Energy;

  and calls;

  • for the taking back of the water services under the democratic control of reformed local authorities, reverse the pattern of historic underinvestment in the infrastructure.

  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

  Dublin Cúige

  O’Malley/Russell Cumann, Dublin

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  Motion 176. Generations of Irish have fled historical, social and economic tribulations at home by following the flight path of ‘The Wild Geese’ abroad. This has often been at great personal and family sacrifice, collectively showing great physical bravery, all-too-human vulnerability, and sometimes remarkable moral courage, from the Irish Brigades of Continental Europe to the San Patricio Brigade of Mexico, from the US Civil War to the Spanish Civil War, in wars of personal commitment, of international political catastrophes that devoured entire generations of the young, and in modern missions of mercy with the United Nations.
  In acknowledgement of this, this Ard Fheis believes that Ireland as a whole – from this island to its global diaspora – should create its own inclusive symbols to commemorate this and remember such a legacy that are not merely derivative of another nation's officially crafted attitude to one particular war.
  Cullen/Hayden Cumann, Wexford

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  Motion 175. This Ard Fheis supports our bid to have Hayes Hotel in Thurles, the birthplace of the GAA, listed on the North Tipperary Planning Authority’s Record of Protected Structures so that it may qualify for protected status under Part IV of the Planning and Development Act of 2000.
  Robert Emmet Cumann, Tipperary

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  Motion 174. This Ard Fheis proposes that Sinn Féin should press for the online availability of the 1926 Census records.
  Cumann Piaras McCan, Tipperary

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  Motion 173. This Ard Fheis calls for regulation on all sulky horse training and racing to protect sulky drivers, road users and road traffic.
  Kevin Lynch/Cathal Brugha Cumann, Waterford

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  Motion 172. This Ard Fheis welcomes the overdue naming of a Dublin bridge after one of its famous women citizens, Rosie Hackett, and commits all Sinn Féin elected representatives to promote gender equality in the naming of public spaces; that in the immediate term, only female names be considered until a gender parity is achieved.
  Markievicz/O’Farrell Cumann, Dublin

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  Motion 171. This Ard Fheis acknowledges the historical significance of the upcoming centenary of the 1916 Rising. We commend the work of the ‘Save Moore Street’ campaign and commits the Sinn Féin representatives in the Oireachtas, the Assembly and Dublin City Council to continue to support the campaign.
  We reiterate our call for the development of a historical revolutionary quarter in Dublin, including the area taking in the GPO, Moore Street and Moore Lane.
  
  This Ard Fheis also recognises the role of other towns such as Enniscorthy in the 1916 Rising and calls for the development of similar projects to a 1916 quarter in these towns before the centenary celebrations, including the establishment of walking tours and other events aimed at drawing tourism into the areas.
  Parle/Creane/Hogan Cumann, Wexford

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  Motion 170. This Ard Fheis recognises the invaluable contribution of so many artists, volunteers, and activists in ensuring that the arts and culture remain vibrant in Ireland and such an integral part of our national identity as well as using them as a tool for social inclusion.
  This Ard Fheis also acknowledges the considerable challenges in being active in and promoting the arts at a time of economic difficulty and reduced budgets, the economic value the arts bring to Ireland, and that every euro invested in the arts is worth several euros to the economy in terms of creating employment and through various festivals promoting economic activity.
  That the arts are to be valued in and of themselves, and in promoting social activity, self-awareness, community involvement and social inclusion, and has proven benefits in terms improving the recovery of patients, theis Ard Fheis therefore criticises the Fine Gael/Labour Government for its poor attitude towards the arts, its failure to promote the arts, and the continued cuts to the funding of the Arts Council, culminating in a cut of €3.9million this year.
  East Cork Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 169. This Ard Fheis recognises the importance of affording prominent positioning to the Irish language, especially in public life and calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to implement change to vehicle registration plate letters on car number plates so that the letters which are at present an abbreviation of English-language place names will from now on be the abbreviated letters taken from the Irish-language place names.
  West Waterford Cumann

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  Motion 167. This Ard Fheis recognises the importance of the Irish language and the Gaeltacht as integral parts of our Irish identity and that there is a crisis regarding the speaking of Irish.
  This Ard Fheis also recognises that our culture and our language are very important and that the state has a central role to play in supporting communities which are seeking to preserve, strengthen and promote the language.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government’s Straitéis Fiche Bliain don Ghaeilge be applied correctly though this Ard Fheis does not trust them to achieve the objectives of the strategy. Worse still, steps have been taken by various Government ministers opposed to the basic principles in the same strategy.
  This Ard Fheis commends and supports the work of Carál Ní Chuilín as minister in promoting the Irish language through initiatives such as Líofa 2015 and calls on Sinn Féin members to sign up to the programme.
  This Ard Fheis instructs the Ard Chomhairle to bring forward a new policy on the promotion of the Irish language, its development and promotion, and that the community and voluntary organisations be central in the approach adopted in relation to Irish language as a living language. The policy should be positive, practical and achievable with targets for conservation and the strengthening and development of the number of Irish-speakers throughout the island and abroad. Sinn Féin will take the opportunities available at local government level, nationally and internationally to promote the Irish language as a political issue.
  Ard Chomhairle
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 168. This Ard Fheis calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to reverse its decision to abolish the system whereby bonus marks are awarded to people sitting Civil Service entrance exams through the Irish language.
  Brian Campbell/Seán Mulvoy Cumann, Galway

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  Motion 166. Recognising that the promotion of the Irish language at all levels, including at EU Parliament level is central to our strategy for Irish language revival, this Ard Fheis calls for continued efforts by the party’s EU Department and MEPs to:
  - Work to ensure Irish is fully respected as an official EU language.
  - Insist that information available to EU citizens is made available through the Irish language.
  - Ensure sufficient resources for Irish-language translation are provided for the benefit of Irish-speakers who wish to engage and work through the medium of Irish.
  - Highlight the status of the Irish language as an official language in the EU and use the European institutions as a springboard for achieving improved structure and support for the language at home such as on An Acht na Gaeilge in the Six Counties.
  Ard Chomhairle

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  Motion 165. This Ard Fheis believes:
  • The imposition of partition established two ruling elites and promoted sectarian division, inequality, conflict and undermined the economy.
  • A united, equal and inclusive Ireland is in the best interests of all our people, our economy and the process of reconciliation.
  This Ard Fheis recognises:
  • Irish unity is now in the gift of the people, North and South.
  • The Good Friday Agreement provides a peaceful and democratic pathway to achieve Irish unity through a Border poll.
  • The legacy of partition, North and South, and the scale of challenges involved in the democratic and peaceful process of building Irish unity.
  • The concerns of those opposed to reunification.
  • The need to engage with all sections of the community to promote a vision of a united, equal and inclusive Ireland.
  • The success of community-based campaigns for a Border poll in South Armagh/North Louth and in Strabane/Lifford.
  • The positive role played by the international community.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  • The Irish and British governments to call concurrent Border polls in the lifetime of the next Assembly term.
  • An open, inclusive, informed and respectful debate on the benefits of Irish unity and the costs of continued partition.
  • The Oireachtas to develop and agree a Green Paper for Irish Unity
  • Sinn Féin to continue to maximise support for Irish unity through all sections of society, including the development of local Border polls campaigns and the building of international support.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Dublin Cúige
  Meaney/Dunne Cumann, Dublin
  Nolan/Downey Cumann, Belfast
  Cadamstown/Birr Cumann, Offaly

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  Motion 163. This Ard Fheis notes the recent decisions of the High Court in Belfast in respect of same sex adoption and the exclusion of gay men from donating blood, and further locates the basis of these decisions in irrational discrimination which is at variance from current medical and scientific advice.
  This Ard Fheis commends the stance of the Sinn Féin Assembly team in standing against this discrimination.
  This Ard Fheis calls on Health Minister Edwin Poots to comply fully with these judgements and his equality obligations as an Executive minister.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige

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  Motion 162. This Ard Fheis supports and endorses the Sinn Féin discussion document ‘Equality, Diversity, Solidarity - Fighting with Pride for LGBT rights in Ireland’.
  This comprehensive document seeks to progress rights for the LGBT community in Ireland including that of marriage equality. We recognise that the vote at the Constitutional Convention was a significant step forward in this respect and call for a referendum on this matter as soon as possible.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Dublin Cúige
  Barrett/MacCurtain Cumann, Cork
  Gerard Casey Cumann, Rasharkin, Co Antrim

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  Motion 161. This Ard Fheis reiterates our policy for an all-Ireland National Fire Authority. This would remove control of the fire service from underfunded local authorities and would provide a cost-effective system to offer live-saving services to those who need it.
  Wicklow Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 160. This Ard Fheis recognises serious problems in the 26 Counties due to an out-of-touch, elitist judiciary created by decades of appointments by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael/Labour governments. This Ard Fheis calls on the party to conduct a study of the judicial system in relation to how judges are chosen by reviewing best practices in Europe and other parts of the world, and to develop a party position statement on required judiciary reforms.
  Michael J. Marren Cumann, Sligo

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  Motion 159. This Ard Fheis:
  • Recognises that the planning process has proven to be open to inappropriate political interference.
  • Mandates the incoming Ard Chomhairle and relevant party structures/personnel to explore ways to eliminate such political interference in the planning process with a view to including such a system in Sinn Féin's local government election manifesto 2014.

  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath

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  Motion 158. This Ard Fheis calls on the Six-County Finance and Personnel Minister to review the role of the Central Procurement Directorates in relation to assessing tenders for public works.
  North Antrim Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 157. This Ard Fheis calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to change legislation in relation to how Capital Investment Programme Funding is spent, to give city/county councils greater input into how Capital Investment Programme Funding is used locally, thus enabling them to prioritise local work over capital works if need be. This must be given serious thought due to the following:
  • Ongoing reduction in the Local Government Fund.
  • Non-distribution of funding from the Local Property Tax to local councils.
  • The continuing erosion of local authority services in the face of privatisation.
  Traoloch Mac Suibhne Cumann, Cork

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  Motion 156. In light of council reform programmes, both North and South, this Ard Fheis calls on the party to work for the establishment of an all-island Local Government Association to improve co-operation and to promote agreed policies between the local authorities within the island of Ireland.
  Burns/McKerr/Toman Cumann, Armagh

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  Motion 154. This Ard Fheis calls for the creation of an all-Ireland youth parliament.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 153. This Ard Fheis seeks to reform postal/absentee voting systems to bring them in line with those of other modern societies which allow generally unrestricted absentee ballots while still ensuring one-person, one-vote.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the party to do everything in its power to reform postal/absentee voting systems to promote voting and citizenship versus the current repression of the vote and marginalisation of students, people with disabilities, and other sectors of society. Those reforms can include but not be limited to:
  • Online postal/absentee ballot registration.
  • Absentee ballots for anyone requesting them for any reason.
  • Changes in the timeframe for requesting postal/absentee ballots (i.e. allowing requests up to seven days before an election).
  Michael J. Marren Cumann, Sligo

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  Motion 152. This Ard Fheis:
  - Welcomes the overwhelming vote by the Constitutional Convention in September 2013 in favour of extending the right to vote for the President of Ireland to citizens in the Six Counties and the Diaspora.
  - Calls on the Irish Government to set a date for referendum on the matter to be put before the people on these recommendations during this Dáil term.
  - Urges the Irish Government to complement and reinforce any such democratic ratification by also amending the Constitution of Bunreacht na hÉireann to enable Northern MPs and Assembly members to have speaking and consultative rights in the Houses of the Oireachtas, including Dáil, Seanad and respective statutory committees.
  Ard Chomhairle
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

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  Motion 151. This Ard Fheis calls for all charges associated with accessing Freedom of Information (FoI) requests be abandoned and that the Fine Gael/Labour Government must ensure that all public instrumentalities (i.e. semi-state businesses including the Central Bank) come under the remit of the FoI Act 2013 and that NAMA be stripped of its special status (Official Secrets Act) and be deemed a public body subject to full disclosure.
  A recent report shows that Ireland is the only country in Europe to impose a FoI charge and is one of only three countries worldwide that has such a charge. Maximum transparency of public administration in this country can only be realised through an effective and cost-free system of FoI.
  Given that the cost of administering the current charge exceeds that of any monetary gain, with this in mind the Government’s only reason for imposing the charge is, we believe, utter embarrassment and an attempt to frustrate and discourage any public sense of wanting to know.
  We should consider the content of some FoI material obtained over time, for example that relating to ‘The Bertie Bowl’. This project was estimated to cost the state approximately €750million but did not go ahead due, in no small part, to FoI exposure and a changing climate.
  Michael J. Marren Cumann, Sligo

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  Motion 150. This Ard Fheis believes that local government in the 26 Counties must be overhauled. It is not fit for purpose. One of the most important pillars of any democratic republican system of government is local government.
  Therefore this Ard Fheis supports the local government reform document; Democratic, Accountable & Delivering, which has at its core;
  • Maximum devolution of power from central government to local government
  • Democratic accountability
  • The efficient and cost effective delivery of high quality public services,
  • Driving economic recovery
  • A sustainable funding model
  McBrearty/Maguire Cumann, Donegal
  West Waterford Cumann
  Bob Doyle/Dinny Barry Cumann, Kildare

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  Motion 149. This Ard Fheis supports the document, Towards a New Republic, a comprehensive, all Ireland political reform document.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Wolfe Tone Cumann, Kildare
  Seamus Wrynn Cumann, Leitrim
  Dunne/Kelly Cumann, Wexford
  Waterford Comhairle Ceantair
  Traoloch Mac Suibhne Cumann, Cork
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Keating/Sands Cumann, Waterford
  Markievicz/O’Farrell Cumann, Dublin

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  Motion 148. This Ard Fheis suggests that the Forestry Service, as the actual repository of most existing information on private and public forestry details, and as the de facto quality control body of same, is the natural and most efficient choice as an entity to service the forestry of the land, as a national forestry certification agency; that such should be provided as a matter of course for all state-aided afforestation, since it runs parallel to the maintenance of forest management quality already pursued by the state, and is in the public interest to do so.
  - The business of the Forestry Service is not simply regulation, and forestry regulation is not punishment and criminalisation to achieve policy, and both should be actively, positively promoting and enabling what is a national resource.
  - Institutional inertia (for example, sometimes long and erratic waiting periods for felling licences for too short windows of harvesting) is destructive to forest enterprise and public investment.
  - Demands for greater forestry management quality should not translate to regulatory capture of real production values by private, corporate, and often foreign contractors through the effective erection of market barriers favouring same.
  - Forestry producer groups should be a prime focus of positive and enabling government policy as one of the most natural and efficient engines for maintenance, harvesting, and replanting.
  Cullen/Hayden Cumann, Wexford

• 

  Motion 147. This Ard Fheis calls for the development of a sustainable and comprehensive policy on aquaculture in Ireland which best serves the interest of our communities while at the same time extracting best use from the natural resources available to us.
  Galway West Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 146. This Ard Fheis recognises the devastation to lives and communities caused by government inaction, especially in relation to Kilmore Quay, and calls on Sinn Féin to continue to press the Fine Gael/Labour Government to negotiate increased fish quotas, committing Sinn Féin to making fish quotas a key issue if in government in the 26 Counties in the future to enable adequate livelihoods for Irish fishermen and women and to stop the criminalising of coastal communities by state agencies.
  Wexford Comhairle Ceantair
  West Waterford Cumann
  Dunne/Kelly Cumann, Wexford
  Tamhnach an Tsalainn Cumann, Donegal
  Cullen/Hayden Cumann, Wexford
  McGrath/O’Brien Cumann, Waterford

• 

  Motion 145. This Ard Fheis supports the call for the Fine Gael/Labour Government to reinstate the insulation grant for young farmers and the early retirement scheme for older farmers who want to give up their land to their sons and daughters.
  Coen/Savage Cumann, Sligo

• 

  Motion 144. This Ard Fheis asks Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill to work with her officials to further improve the system of Single Farm Payments, especially in relation to inspections, so that farmers can address any penalties in a way that lessens the impact on their business.
  Joe MacManus Cumann, Fermanagh

• 

  Motion 143. This Ard Fheis supports the fullest possible redistribution of farm payments under the reformed Common Agricultural Policy and regrets that the Irish EU Presidency did not seek a more radical redistribution for the less than 2% of recipients who receive more between them than over 40% at the lower end of the payments scale.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

• 

  Motion 142. This Ard Fheis calls for the creation of new grants for the suckler beef industry to protect small farms across the 26 Counties. The Irish beef and livestock sector is worth €2.3billion to the economy and must be protected as part of an effort to safeguard rural Ireland’s communities.
  Parle/Creane/Hogan Cumann, Wexford

• 

  Motion 141. This Ard Fheis supports the re-establishment of a bio-refinery plan in the south-east which would produce sugar as well as ethanol from beet. It is estimated that this would cost €350million to establish and create 5,000 jobs.
  Ard Chomhairle
  O'Donoghue/Keenan Cumann, Carlow
  Wexford Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 140. This Ard Fheis calls on the Environment Minister in the North to revisit Planning Policy Statement 21 (PPS21) ‘Sustainable Development in the Countryside’ so as to provide non-farming rural communities with greater opportunities to build a home and live in the countryside.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 139. This Ard Fheis welcomes the work the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development in the Six Counties has done to develop the agri-food strategy ‘Going for Growth’ and supports its targets to create 15,000 additional jobs and increasing export sales by 60%.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Agriculture Minister to ensure fairness in the supply chain so that farmers receive a fair price for their produce.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 138. This Ard Fheis commends the work of Sinn Féin Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development Michelle O’Neill for her work to date and calls on her to:
  - Bring forward legislation that makes rural proofing a legal requirement for all Government departments and statutory bodies.
  - Progress the all-island Animal Health and Welfare Strategy to bring our disease status to similar levels across the island so that it can be brought forward as EU legislation in 2015 to allow the free movement of animals throughout Ireland.
  - Build on the good work in her Tackling Rural Poverty and Isolation Strategy and to bring forward additional initiatives to help address rural poverty and to ensure that the Rural Development Programme 2014-19 targets disadvantage and creates jobs.
  This Ard Fheis also recognises the shortcomings of the Multiple Deprivation Measure (NIMDM) that mask areas of deprivation in rural communities and calls on the Minister for Finance and Personnel to initiate an immediate review of this and bring any findings to the Executive.
  Ard Chomhairle
  North Antrim Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 128. This Ard Fheis proposes that those whose homes, lands, lives, and communities are directly impacted by state-imposed energy infrastructure (such as pipelines and pylons) and should be compensated collectively with funded community trust and development organisations (analogous to models in Alaska and Denmark).
  Also that as the negative impact and costs of rights-of-way and such for public infrastructure falls heaviest on specific individuals, families, and communities along such routes compared to the large social benefits for society at large, these groups be compensated for disturbance and negative impact by funding based on a severance or royalty model to service such community organisations.
  Cullen/Hayden Cumann, Wexford

• 

  Motion 136. This Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for the Environment in the North and the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, through the North/South Ministerial Council, to develop an all-island National Wind Energy Strategy. This strategy should include planning regulations with regard to wind farms, the public consultation process that must be carried out prior to the erection of wind turbines, the sale of the energy from wind turbines, the taxation levels on wind energy and the need for clear and accountable community benefit.

  We commit Sinn Fein to, when requested, represent the interests of local residents and oppose proposals which will negatively impact on neighbouring residents, local communities, Environmentally important landscapes, Landscape character areas of major significance, major heritage sites and major Tourism locations.

  Eoin McNamee Cumann, Tyrone

  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Buncrana Cumann, Donegal
  Meath Comhairle Ceantair
  Eoin McNamee Cumann, Tyrone
  Seamus Woods Cumann, Tyrone
  Gallagher/Foy Cumann, Meath
  Matthew Kane Cumann, Offaly
  Cumann Pádraig Ó Cadhain/Margaret Joyce, Galway

• 

  Motion 77. This Ard Fheis opposes any state subsidy to the establishment or running of private hospitals in Ireland.

  Ard Chomhairle
  Logue/Marley Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 137. This Ard Fheis recognises the huge potential for the island of Ireland to become an exporter of energy with the full development of wind, wave and tidal power; but believes that the export of energy should only begin when self-sufficiency in electricity generation from renewable sources has been achieved.
  This Ard Fheis recognises the vital contribution natural resources and energy generation can make to Ireland's development and prosperity. We recognise that Irish people will only achieve full benefit from these resources when there is a cohesive, comprehensive strategy underpinning the planning, delivery, operation and management of these areas. Successive governments have singularly failed to maximise the opportunities arising from these sectors. Energy companies (whose primary interest is to maximise profits for their investors) have consistently been allowed take the initiative with governments responding to ‘take it or leave it’ offers.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the party to draw up a strategy for development of our natural resources and for the development of an energy infrastructure that will serve the best interests of the people in all of Ireland. The strategy should incorporate:
  • Recognition that natural resources belong to the people of Ireland and must generate the maximum return to the people.
  • Understanding that major infrastructural projects can only be carried through on time and within budget when they have informed support of the majority of people, particularly communities most immediately impacted by those developments.
  • Development of a Land, Landscape and Off-Shore Planning and Management Strategy to inform major infrastructural planning and delivery projects.
  • Development of open, transparent, accountable procedures governing all discussions and decisions in relation to natural resources and energy projects.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Cumann Pádraig Ó Cadhain/Margaret Joyce, Galway

• 

  Motion 135. This Ard Fheis calls on:
  
  • Local authorities to draft and implement local climate change action plans. The plans will be based on a National Climate Change Bill. They will set specific local targets, based on national and international targets, for the reduction of emissions in relation to energy use, transport, housing and waste management. These targets will be developed following a consultation process with relevant experts and stakeholders.
  • Local authorities will actively engage and work with local communities to develop and implement action plans.
  • Council policies will be policy-proofed to ensure they are in line with their climate strategy.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

• 

  Motion 134. This Ard Fheis calls for all gasoline sold in Ireland to contain 5% ethanol in line with the EU fuel Directive as well as the European Standard EN 228 and that the sale of gasoline containing ethanol is properly regulated and labelled at the point of sale.
  West Limerick Cumann

• 

  Motion 132. This Ard Fheis resolves that the natural resources of Ireland (including oil, gas, wind and water resources) belong to the people of Ireland and should be administered by the state for them. They can never be transferred out of being held in trust for the people of Ireland and the Irish Constitution should be amended to secure that ownership.
  As a specific immediate need, a fee for the commercial use of Irish wind resources that captures the greater part of its value for the people of Ireland must be levied by local authorities to compensate for social, economic and environmental impacts and be distributed to its beneficiaries.
  Robert Emmet Cumann, Dublin
  Dublin Cúige
  Smith/Farrell/Griffith Cumann, Dublin
  Buncrana Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 131. This Ard Fheis reiterates Sinn Féin’s opposition to mass burn incineration as a form of waste management. This Ard Fheis notes with concern Dublin City Council’s ongoing plans to build an incinerator on Dublin’s Poolbeg Peninsula.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the local authority to abandon their plans and the Minister for Environment, Community and Local Government to establish an independent, public inquiry into the cost and issuing of contracts during the process to date.
  James Connolly Cumann, Dublin
  Swinford Cumann, Mayo

• 

  Motion 130. This Ard Fheis:
  - Underlines the importance of moving to a low-carbon economy.
  - Regrets that an EU target for transport fuel has led to a significant scale-up of unsustainable first-generation biofuel demand and that this increase has resulted in large amounts of limited resources such as land and water being used in the developing world to meet this demand.
  - Underlines that this phenomenon is resulting in global food price rises and the diversion of land from food production which is affecting the global poor.
  - Stresses that ‘Indirect Land Use Change’ is occurring as demand for land for biofuels is leading to increased deforestation to accommodate both biofuel production and relocated food production.
  - Highlights concerns that such deforestation is having a negative impact on the environment and emissions.
  - Calls therefore for the EU to reduce its previous target and cap the amount of renewable energy derived from first generation biofuels and to seek more renewable and sustainable energy sources.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 129. This Ard Fheis reaffirms Sinn Féin’s commitment to banning hydraulic fracturing (‘fracking’) in any part of Ireland. We do this notwithstanding the current investigation being undertaken by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) because:
  • The EPA is not legally accountable for the validity of their recommendations, nor for any damage arising from decisions made on foot of their reports.
  • The EPA study does not incorporate study of the impact of hydraulic fracturing on human health.
  • The likelihood that the EPA study will examine the same scientific reports as Environmental Protection Agencies in other countries who permit hydraulic fracturing ‘provided it is properly regulated’.
  • The clearly-expressed views of citizens in other countries who were severely impacted by hydraulic fracturing that their Environmental Protection Agencies and other government agencies were more concerned with protecting the interests of the industry than interests of the people.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 127. This Ard Fheis:
  • Notes the proposed plans to expand the electricity grid on the island via the North-South Interconnector, the Grid Link and Grid West projects.
  • Supports in principle the enhancement of supply and expansion of the electricity grid and the stated aims of Eirgrid to help secure future electricity supply for homes, businesses, farms, factories and communities, to help Ireland meet its 40% renewable energy target and to provide a platform for economic growth and job creation.
  • Notes with concern the impact that construction of the proposed high-voltage 400KV pylon supported powerlines would have, most notably, in the areas of:
  • Agriculture
  • Health
  • Landscape
  • Tourism
  • Land and property values
  • Commends the community-based groups across the island who have been campaigning effectively on the issue, who have helped to inform the wider population of the projects, and have been voicing the many genuine and serious concerns that communities have about the proposed projects.
  Further notes:
  • That underground cables have lower transmission losses than overhead lines because, due to thermal reasons, underground cables have a larger conductor and therefore significantly smaller losses.
  • Studies on several 400KV transmission grids show that the characteristics of underground cables can in many cases be beneficial to the overall performance of the network.
  • Disturbance of underground cables occurs less frequently than for overhead lines. Overhead cables are affected by severe weather. Only outside influences can disturb and damage underground cables. Underground cables are low maintenance compared to overhead lines.
  • Underground cables – at installation – cost more than overhead lines but the fact that they are low-maintenance, have lower transmission losses, have a longer lifespan and no environmental or other negative impact would suggest that the initial additional outlay will be offset over time by the many advantages.
  • That an international expert commission, employed by the government, found that the undergrounding of cables was “a viable option”.
  Calls for:
  • The Irish Government to direct Eirgrid to proceed with the proposed projects only on the basis that they will be undergrounded.
  • In the case of the North-South Interconnector, that the lines be placed underground using ducts within the new A5/N2 road development.
  • The Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act, which facilitates the forcing through of such projects regardless of the expressed wishes of communities, be repealed.
  • A united all-party front in opposition to the overgrounding of powerlines and to make the case for undergrounding.

  Monaghan Comhairle Ceantair
  O’Hanlon/MacMahon/Lynagh Cumann, Monaghan
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Meath Comhairle Ceantair
  West Waterford Cumann
  East Cork Comhairle Ceantair
  Armagh Comhairle Ceantair
  Gerard O’Callaghan Cumann, Armagh
  Swinford Cumann, Mayo
  Wicklow Comhairle Ceantair
  Waterford Comhairle Ceantair
  Keating/Sands Cumann, Waterford
  Fr Murphy/Keegan/Parle Cumann, Wexford

• 

  Motion 123. This Ard Fheis requests that the Irish and British governments, through parliamentary resolution, call for the immediate release of Leonard Peltier.
  O’Malley/Russell Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 126. On 17th October 2011, an International Conference for the Resolution of the Conflict in the Basque Country took place in Donostia/San Sebastian. International representation included former Secretary General of the UN Kofi Annan and Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams. As an outcome of the conference, the Declaration of Aiete was presented. This declaration proposed a process of dialogue and negotiation and a prior declaration of a definitive cessation of armed activity from ETA. ETA’s declaration of a definitive cessation was announced a few days later, creating a unique and historic opportunity to address the causes as well as the consequences of the conflict.
  This new scenario, however, requires new steps to progress towards a political solution to the conflict. The cessation of armed activity must be responded to with political measures to create the conditions for achieving a just and lasting peace.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Spanish and French authorities to implement the following measures to consolidate the peace process:
  - The end of the policy of dispersal, an arbitrary measure applied to Basque prisoners, and the immediate transfer to prisons closer to their families.
  - The release of prisoners whom the Spanish courts apply the Doctrine 197/2006 (also called the ‘Parot Doctrine’), as well as the release of those prisoners who can be eligible for parole.
  - The immediate release of seriously-ill prisoners who, according to current legislation, should be freed to receive adequate treatment for their illnesses.
  - The immediate release of Arnaldo Otegi and all those imprisoned for their political views or political activity, in political parties, youth organisations, social movements or in the media.
  - The dismissal of the processes related to these issues, as well as the removal of all European arrest warrants that may have been issued for actions of the same type.
  This Ard Fheis further calls on the Irish Government and the political institutions to take an active role in demanding the Spanish Government shift its current policy of obstruction that is diminishing this historical opportunity and to instead promote and support a process of dialogue to achieve a just and lasting peace in the Basque Country.
  This Ard Fheis also expresses solidarity with the 40 Basque pro-independence Left youth activists currently on trial in Madrid. Furthermore, this Ard Fheis calls on the Spanish state to immediately cease all acts of brutal and inhumane methods of torture.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Traoloch Mac Suibhne Cumann, Cork
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Clancy/O’Callaghan Cumann, Limerick

• 

  Motion 125. This Ard Fheis has outlined repeatedly the worrying aspects of the militarisation of the European Union. The EU/NATO member states have become increasingly involved in armed intervention across the globe with the Irish Government slowly abandoning the fundamental stance on military neutrality. On 4th April 2014, the Peace and Neutrality Alliance (PANA) will spearhead the Irish ‘Day of Action Against NATO’. This Ard Fheis calls for Sinn Féin to participate in the anti-NATO day of activities in an official capacity and will co-operate with PANA and other bodies to stop the use of Shannon Airport for military purposes or for the purpose of so-called rendition flights. We shall also commit to promoting the Irish Government policy of neutrality as an uncompromised position of Irish foreign policy in the future.
  Dublin Cúige
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 124. This Ard Fheis:
  - Recognises the impact EU legislation has on member states.
  - Opposes the further transfer of competence to EU level at the expense of national sovereignty.
  - In particular, opposes the limitations placed on the social and economic choices of governments by the increased centralisation of fiscal and economic decision-making.
  - Reaffirms our policy of critical engagement with the European Union.
  - Recognises the need to ensure that Sinn Fein’s efforts at EU level are maximised and to ensure that party structures are kept informed of European issues and their impact on Ireland
  - Calls for continued and greater co-operation and coherence between the party’s parliamentary departments in the Oireachtas, the Assembly and the European Parliament.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 122. This Ard Fheis, noting the Immigration Reform Bill being debated in the United States Congress and how important immigration reform would be for the approximately 50,000 undocumented Irish in the US, calls on both parties in Congress to seize this historic moment and allow the undocumented a route to legalisation and citizenship.
  Dublin Cúige
  Carty/Mac Giolla Brighde/Fleming Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 121. This Ard Fheis condemns the Sri Lankan Government’s appalling human rights record and its crackdown on freedom of expression. It also calls on the Sri Lankan Government to allow an independent investigation into alleged war crimes carried out by the Sri Lankan military against Tamil communities and to hold accountable the perpetrators of any war crimes.
  Dublin Cúige

• 

  Motion 120. This Ard Fheis notes the continuing conflict taking place in Syria. We note the plight faced by millions of people who have been displaced by the conflict and the terrible suffering caused to non-combatants, including women and children.
  - We condemn the killing of civilians and human rights violations by any party to the conflict.
  - We call for inclusive dialogue by all sides to the conflict to seek a resolution without the interference of outside powers.
  - We support the call for Kurdish representatives to be given their own delegation to all peace talks. This would ensure the inclusivity of all talks and increase the chances of finding a lasting peaceful solution to the Syrian conflict.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 119. This Ard Fheis expresses our concern at the continuing crisis in Egypt, including the imposition of restrictive political and protest laws there, and calls on the Egyptian authorities to lift restrictions on democratic activity immediately and set about restoring democracy.
  - We further note the deterioration of the situation in Sinai and the restrictions on the Rafah crossing. Coupled with the closure of tunnels, this is creating even more hardship for the people in Gaza who are already suffering the consequences of the Israeli siege.
  - We call on the Egyptian authorities to reopen the border crossing and allow the free movement of people and goods through the crossing in line with normal international passport and customs provisions.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 118. This Ard Fheis reiterates our ongoing solidarity with the people of Palestine and calls for:
  - An end to all armed actions and acts of violence.
  - An end to the occupation of the West Bank and the denial of freedom of movement to Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and between the West Bank and Gaza Strip as part of a process to decolonise the West Bank.
  - An end to the ongoing Israeli colonisation of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, the building of settlements and the expansion of existing settlements including by so-called natural growth.
  - An immediate halt to the building of the Separation Wall as a first step to its ultimate demolition.
  We further call for:
  - Removal of all restrictions on the export and import of Palestinian goods and trade from the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza.
  - An immediate end to the siege of Gaza and for the reopening of all border points, including the Erez and Rafah crossings for both people and goods.
  - Reopening of Gaza port and lifting of the three-kilometre limit on fishing within Gaza territorial waters.
  - Implementation of all United Nations resolutions and the enforcement of international law.
  - An end to the practice of administrative detention, including the detention of children.
  - An end to intrusions and restrictions on movement of Palestinians in East Jerusalem, including the vicinity of the Al Aqsa Mosque.
  - Recognition of all democratic mandates and the removal of all restrictions on political parties with a democratic mandate.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Smith/Farrell/Griffith Cumann, Dublin
  National Youth Committee
  O'Donoghue/Keenan Cumann, Carlow
  Darcy/Mellows Cumann, Galway
  Traoloch Mac Suibhne Cumann, Cork

• 

  Motion 117. This Ard Fheis welcomes and supports the continued efforts to create a sustainable peace process in Colombia. We reiterate our support for attempts to create an inclusive process and secure a democratic, negotiated settlement.
  - We condemn the arrest and imprisonment of high-profile Colombian trade unionist Huber Ballesteros. His arrest is a clear attempt by Colombian authorities to punish him for his trade union activities.
  - We call for the release of Huber Ballesteros and increased protection and support for trade union leaders and activists in Colombia.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 116. This Ard Fheis commends Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his comrades for continuing to successfully implement and improve the Bolivarian Revolution in what has been an extremely difficult time since the death of Hugo Chávez.
  We condemn the attacks of right-wing forces on the democratic process in Venezuela and their futile attempts to destabilise the country and discredit President Maduro’s clear and transparent victory in the April 2013 presidential election.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 115. This Ard Fheis welcomes the growing climate of political and economic co-operation between Central and South American countries.
  - We condemn the decision of some European countries to deny Bolivian President Evo Morales’s plane airspace on 2 July 2013 and to ground his presidential plane in Vienna. This decision was based on false information and accusations. Their actions humiliated President Morales and all the people of Central and South America. No democratic head of state should be treated as a second-rate president.
  - Following Edward Snowden’s revelations, we condemn the USA’s massive spy programme against South American countries, and in particular Brazil. This includes the bugging of Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff’s communications and Brazil’s diplomatic mission to the UN, as well as tracking the personal data and communication of Brazilian citizens. This practice violates international law, violates sovereignty, and an individual’s right to privacy.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 113. This Ard Fheis commits to a greater involvement through the Department of Environment, if in government, with the maintenance, oversight and support of private estate management companies and a decrease in the cost of re-registering such companies with the Companies’ Registration Office. The increase in the number of such companies, often being run by residents with little outside support or advice, being struck off the Companies’ Register is causing further difficulties for those who need to sell their house. This is due to the legal position of the shared lands and services of these estates which become literally ‘no man’s land’.
  Sullivan/Enright Cumann, Kerry

• 

  Motion 112. This Ard Fheis calls on the Six-County Executive to put measures in place for homeowners who have seen the condition of their homes deteriorate since the withdrawal of means-tested grants and commits itself to help those low-earners and those on benefits who have not got the financial ability to bring their homes to a decent standard.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 111. This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish Government to make funding available to renovate the vast numbers of local authority accommodation which lie in a serious state of disrepair.
  John James Kelly/Damien Brolly Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 110. This Ard Fheis recognises the restrictive nature of the Fine Gael/Labour Government’s social housing policy and undertakes to re-establish a constructive rural social housing policy which will enable citizens access to social housing in the rural area and undertakes to ensure that housing stock can be bought and built, including ‘special instants housing’ in rural areas where the needs exist.
  Donegal Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 109. This Ard Fheis:
  • Asserts the primacy of greatest objective need in relation to the policy, provision and allocation of social housing as the most effective method of promoting equality of access across all sectors of our community.
  • Accepts that current high levels of homelessness and housing distress (exacerbated by increasing private sector rents, mortgage debt and repossessions) necessitates a moratorium on the ‘right to buy’ until the provision of social and affordable housing can meet urgent need.
  • Rejects the privatisation of public housing and supports bringing the North’s Housing Executive in line with other public housing providers by revising the financial memorandum set by the Department of Social Development to enable the Housing Executive to utilise borrowing rights introduced in 2011 to fund new social housing developments while retaining public housing within the public sector.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 108. This Ard Fheis recognises that the 26-County state, via local authorities, is moving away from the provision of public housing and shifting to what is called housing support. This model puts the onus for housing provision on the voluntary and community sector as well as subsidising private landlords.
  While voluntary and community housing bodies provide great service and are an essential part of our housing system, they are incapable of providing the level of housing needed.
  This Ard Fheis calls for the establishment of housing trusts by each local authority which could source financing for a major public housing build without borrowing as part of the state’s ‘national debt’.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath
  Wicklow Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 107. This Ard Fheis recognizes that there are 184,534 homes that are in mortgage distress in the 26 Counties.
  We acknowledge that these families live every day with the fear that they will lose their home and often sacrifice all other needs, including food and heating, to try to make payments on their mortgages.
  We believe that the Fine Gael/Labour Government’s response to the mortgage crisis has been entirely ineffectual and rests mainly on handing powers to the banks to harass people in mortgage distress and repossess family homes. This is borne out by the facts, with the banks sending out 15,000 repossession letters within the first few months of the mortgage distress ‘solution’ targets being imposed in 2013.
  Sinn Féin continues to advocate a ‘FAIR’ solution to the mortgage crisis – one that puts the Family home first, Adjudicates on an Independent basis, and brings about Resolutions that can involve as an option write-downs on a case by case basis.
  The party believes that the final decision on mortgage solutions must be taken away from the banks and there has to be more protection for the family home in law.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to show the political leadership that is needed on this issue and address it seriously – putting families first, not banks.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath

• 

  Motion 106. This Ard Fheis reiterates Sinn Féin’s commitment to challenging Irish Government cuts to youth services that have suffered funding reductions of 30% since 2008. Youth services play a vital part in empowering and encouraging young people to participate positively in society. Lack of investment, understanding and foresight undermine our young people and will consign this generation to lives where unemployment, poverty, emigration, crime, addiction and mental health problems will be the norm rather than the exception.
  Traoloch MacSuibhne Cumann, Cork

• 

  Motion 104. This Ard Fheis commends the party for establishing a working group to prioritise the three most deprived constituencies in the Six Counties following the motion passed at the last Ard Fheis. We call on the party to support the recommendations when they are agreed by the working group and to use all its political power to help deliver these plans.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 103. This Ard Fheis commits to a change, if in government, in Fuel Allowance Payments which would incorporate an option to pay a supplier directly for bulk supplies of oil, gas and solid fuel on behalf of those receiving such payments, either in total or as an agreed percentage of the total allowance payable. This would be of huge benefit to those whose main heating system is run on fuels that are usually or exclusively bought in bulk and where a small extra payment weekly over six months is not adequate to cover large one-off payments.
  Sullivan/Enright Cumann, Kerry

• 

  Motion 102. This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish Government to ensure that those signing off social protection to take up a SOLAS course retain all the supplementary benefits to which they are entitled and pledges Sinn Féin to ensure this when in government.
  Peadar Clancy/Mairéad Farrell Cumann, Clare

• 

  Motion 101. This Ard Fheis:
  • Condemns the Fine Gael/Labour Budget 2014 which cut core social welfare rates and payments from the cradle to the grave, including the targeting of new mothers with cuts to Maternity Benefit, young people with cuts to their Jobseeker’s Allowance, the elderly and disabled with the abolition of the Telephone Allowance and cuts to Invalidity Pension, and even the deceased with the scrapping of the Bereavement Grant.
  • Declares that the Fine Gael/Labour Government totally fails to understand the realities of being a new mother in its cuts to Maternity Benefit. This cut will mean will mean many new mothers will not be able to afford to take their full paid maternity leave entitlement and will be forced back to work before their babies are six months.
  • Maintains that these cuts, which will lead to further hardship and emigration, were entirely avoidable had the Government instead adopted the measures outlined in Sinn Féin’s Alternative Budget.
  • Calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to change course and begin reversing the cuts in this and previous Budgets, the cumulative effect of which has been devastating for individuals and local economies.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  West Waterford Cumann
  Ard Chomhairle
  Galway West Comhairle Ceantair
  Cadamstown/Birr Cumann, Offaly
  Andy O’Sullivan Cumann, Cork

• 

  Motion 100. This Ard Fheis reaffirms Sinn Féin’s opposition to the austerity agenda being pursued by both the Tory/LibDem coalition in London and the Fine Gael/Labour coalition in Dublin which has attacked the most vulnerable, those with disabilities and hard-working families.
  This Ard Fheis commends the efforts of both our Assembly and Dáil teams to date in working to prevent this agenda being imposed on Irish people.
  We note that the British Government’s welfare cuts agenda would have already been imposed were it not for Sinn Féin’s resolute stance in support of the most defenceless in our society.
  We restate our continued opposition to the so-called ‘Bedroom Tax’.
  This Ard Fheis recognises that these proposals ignore the unique circumstances of a society emerging from conflict and their devastating consequences for disadvantaged unionist and nationalist areas, low-income and unwaged families, the elderly, and physically and intellectually disabled citizens.
  
  This Ard Fheis calls again on the British Government to enter into meaningful dialogue with all the Executive parties to find a proper resolution to the outstanding issues.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige

• 

  Motion 99. This Ard Fheis supports the right of St Mary’s University College to have the autonomy and government support it requires to promote its mission of academic excellence, teacher education, Irish-medium education, access to higher education for disadvantaged groups and community engagement.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Department for Employment and Learning Minister to support St Mary’s in developing measures that will ensure its long-term sustainability in the heart of west Belfast.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 97. This Ard Fheis believes that churches and state should be separate. We call for the secularisation of all publicly-funded schools and for the management of these schools to be under the control and authority of local county councils. No sectarian religious education should be permitted in any publicly-funded school. Families desiring a religious ethos in a school should pay for such schools from their private funds or from donations.
  Clancy/O’Callaghan Cumann, Limerick

• 

  Motion 96. This Ard Fheis welcomes the increased diversity in Ireland's population, North and South. Children from families who have recently entered Ireland may not have access to funded support in their education to develop their spoken and written language skills. This Ard Fheis calls for the provision of classroom support to maximise their educational opportunities.
  Nolan/Downey Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 95. This Ard Fheis notes the continued success of the Middletown Autism Centre; welcomes the outstanding provision for educational assessment, training, and research on an all-Ireland basis; and calls on both Education Ministers to explore ways in which the success of this cross-Border project can be expanded in the years ahead.
  Strabane Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 93. This Ard Fheis deplores the continued reduction in standard capitation grants for the education sector and demands:
  
  - The reversal of all recent cuts to capitation grants to schools.
  - An increase in basic capitation grant assistance be made available to small schools.
  Carn/Malin Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 92. This Ard Fheis recognises the importance associated with small Gaeltacht schools and the very important role they play in teaching Irish to native Irish speakers. This Ard Fheis condemns the decision taken by the Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs to end the availability of funding to Eagraíocht na Scoileanna Gaeltachta and demands that he reverses his decision. ESG is the only organisation that speaks for teachers, parents and pupils in schools located in the Gaeltacht and it has a central role to play in Gaeltacht education affairs, particularly in the delivery of the 20 year strategy on the Irish language.
  Cumann Mháirtín Uí Chadhain, Gaillimh

• 

  Motion 91. This Ard Fheis
  • Commends Assembly Education Minister John O’Dowd for reforming the school funding system to target resources at objective need to help break the link between social deprivation and poor educational outcomes – as evidenced by the fact that children from poorer backgrounds have only half the chance of achieving the target qualification benchmark as their more affluent peers.
  • Welcomes the decision by the Education Minister John O’Dowd to extend the free school meals and school uniform grants criteria, meaning around 100,000 low-income families will benefit by 2014 compared to 60,000 in the last year of direct rule.
  • Welcomes the commitment from the Six-County Education Minister that – in areas where it can be clearly demonstrated that small schools are needed – such schools will be retained and supported to ensure they provide quality education provision, even if they are experiencing falling enrolments.
  • Commends the continued rise in educational attainment in the North under successive Sinn Féin Education Ministers which has seen the number of young people attaining the target benchmark of qualifications rise by over 10% since direct rule.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Derry Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 90. This Ard Fheis:
  • Reaffirms that education is a basic and fundamental human right which should be free, universally available and assist everyone, without exception, in developing their full potential.
  • Condemns government policies which have entrenched educational inequalities and notes that the Proclamation of the Irish Republic in 1916, pledges to “cherish all the children of the nation equally”.
  • Recognises the social and educational benefits of all-ability schools, congratulates the vast majority of schools across Ireland which practise all-ability, quality education, and commends the ongoing work of successive Sinn Féin Education Ministers in the Six Counties in promoting these schools.
  • Commends Assembly Education Minister John O’Dowd’s consistent stand against the educationally unsound use of academic selection at age 11 practised by the minority of schools; calls on all organisations opposed to the socially-divisive practice of academic selection to build a broad-based campaign to end it;
  • Commends 26-County Education spokesperson Jonathan O’Brien TD for publishing legislation on tackling school bullying which forced Education Minister Ruairí Quinn to issue new guidelines to schools; highlighting the ‘voluntary contribution’ arrangement in schools which led the Minister to hold a consultation process with the National Parents Council on the issue; supporting the rights of children who are attending Gaelscoileanna to continue their education in Irish-medium post-primary schools by challenging admissions policies; and for fighting rising back-to-school costs.
  • Commends teachers across Ireland who do a demanding job with limited resources.
  • Reaffirms Sinn Féin’s commitment to making education available to all as of right, on the basis of full equality.
  • Notes that the Department of Education and some patrons, including religious bodies, are involved in reorganising some of the schools under their control and calls for consultaion with parents, pupils and staff to be central to any decision-making process.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath
  Carn/Malin Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 89. This Ard Fheis calls for the immediate removal of legal highs from public sale and for the drafting of new legislation to close the loopholes allowing such drugs to be sold over the counter.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 88. This Ard Fheis recognises the damaging, far-reaching trauma inflicted on our society by alcohol addiction and misuse and demands that the Department of Health properly invest in effective services and research that will inform best practice.
  Markievicz/O’Farrell Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 87. This Ard Fheis notes:
  • The challenges and increased demand on community-based drug projects by poly drug use.
  • The serious threat posed by criminal gangs involved in the illegal drugs trade.
  • That drug users are victims and should be treated as such.
  This Ard Fheis commends:
  • The work done by communities in tackling the causes and consequences of the ongoing drugs crisis.
  • The work done by both Local and Regional Drugs Task Forces.
  • Those families who struggle with addiction on a daily basis.
  • Families and communities who refuse to be intimidated by criminal gangs.
  This Ard Fheis calls:
  • On the Irish Government to re-establish the National Drugs Strategy Team.
  • For the reversal of cuts to Local and Regional Drug Task Forces.
  • On the Health Service Executive to reverse their policy of centralising drug services.
  • For an increase in the number of beds available for drug rehabilitation.
  • On the Irish Government to participate fully in the 2016 UN General Assembly Special Session on Drugs.
  James Connolly Cumann, Dublin
  Logue/Marley Cumann, Dublin
  Darcy/Mellows Cumann, Galway

• 

  Motion 86. This Ard Fheis calls on the governments, North and South, to:
  • Increase funding to organisations and services active in suicide prevention and support for families affected by suicide.
  • Update all strategies to cater for the current economic and social situation.
  • Recognise that there is a serious need for the introduction of a suicide and self-harm education programme in the post-primary schools and would change guidelines on suicide prevention to reflect best practice, particularly 2.1 of 26-County Department of Education guidelines that state that it could be counter-productive to educate secondary school students in suicide awareness.
  • Encourages Sinn Féin members to participate in suicide awareness and prevention courses
  • Establish an All-Ireland National Suicide Authority with the aim of synchronising the efforts of all anti-suicide organisations and creating clarity and unity in suicide prevention.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Brian Campbell/Seán Mulvoy Cumann, Galway
  Martin Hurson Cumann, UCC

• 

  Motion 85. This Ard Fheis calls for a new, improved approach towards suicide prevention and the provision of help for those people who are experiencing mental health problems.
  As the ‘Reach Out, National Strategy for Action on Suicide Prevention 2005-2014’, comes to an end, this provides an opportunity to put in place concrete actions for suicide prevention. Adequate resources and funding must be ring-fenced to ensure this strategy delivers positive outcomes for all, regardless of socio-economic status.
  This strategy should include:
  • The establishment of youth-friendly mental health services (such as Jigsaw, Galway) in each county.
  • Equal access and outcomes for all those experiencing poor mental health.
  • Recognition that suicide prevention is everybody’s responsibility and requires the development of:
  • Raising awareness and education on signs and symptoms of suicidal thoughts/intent and poor mental health for families and communities.
  • Appropriate community responses.
  • Collaborative partnership approaches across all services and agencies.
  • Policies which promote positive health and address health inequalities.

  O'Malley/McEvilly Cumann, Co Mayo

• 

  Motion 84. This Ard Fheis calls on the 26-County Government to increase the 2014 additional monies for the roll-out of a Vision for Change to the 2012 and 2013 levels, and urges an immediate reassessment of all plans to further reduce or relocate acute mental health beds/units, recognising the importance of adequate provision and long-established best practices and patient comfort, including family accessibility.
  Monaghan Comhairle Ceantair
  O’Hanlon/MacMahon/Lynagh Cumann, Monaghan

• 

  Motion 83. This Ard Fheis notes that:
  • Fluoridation was first introduced in 1965 at a time tooth decay was a significant public health issue and represented a cheap way to deal with the widespread problem, especially among the poor.
  • There are no longer any public health reasons to continue water fluoridation. The need for fluoridation has been entirely negated by the modern-day use of fluoride toothpaste, which accounts for a more than adequate supply of fluoride for this purpose and improved dental services.
  • Since the purported benefit of fluoride is topical, and the risks are systemic, it makes more sense to deliver the fluoride directly to the tooth in the form of toothpaste.
  • Fluoride toothpaste is the most widely used and rigorously-evaluated fluoride treatment.
  This Ard Fheis commends:
  • Campaigners for their ongoing efforts to reverse the policy of the fluoridation of public drinking water.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  • The Irish Government to immediately repeal the Health (Fluoridation of Water Supplies) Bill and to use the money saved to provide healthy eating and improved dental services for children.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

• 

  Motion 81. This Ard Fheis encourages the introduction of breast health awareness amongst younger women in the latter cycle of secondary school to encourage the continuation of the practice in later life and help in identifying and reducing breast cancer numbers.
  Terry Clarke Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 79. This Ard Fheis calls for the Health Service Executive to update and improve treatment and care for the elderly, especially those with mental illness. There must be improved liaison between GPs, public health nurses, social workers and the hospital to understand the patient’s situation to assure the care they need. These people have paid a lifetime of taxes and should receive the dignity they deserve.
  Charlie McGlade Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 78. This Ard Fheis reaffirms our call made at the 2013 Ard Fheis for the Fine Gael/Labour Government to:
  • Immediately reverse the cuts to home-help hours, homecare packages, respite care grant and the respite allowance and to return funding to pre-Budget 2012 levels.
  • Maintain, develop and enhance homecare frontline services and to guarantee continued reliable access to community care for older people and the infirm.
  • Draft, publish and implement a National Positive Ageing Strategy before December 2014.
  This Ard Fheis also calls for a review into the commissioning of 15-minute social care packages to evaluate their appropriate use in relation to the dignity and compassion essential to caring for older people within the community in the Six Counties.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 76. This Ard Fheis condemns the Health Service Executive for its failure to address the rate of spread of hospital-acquired infections which at this point have become endemic in our public hospitals.
  The Health Information and Quality Authority ‘watchdog’ has demonstrated no ability to hold hospitals accountable after they issue scathing reports on hospitals in the media and calls for HIQA to be given to necessary powers to see their recommendations implemented.
  McGrath/O’Brien Cumann, Waterford

• 

  Motion 75. This Ard Fheis condemns the siting of only one primary health care centre in the Mid-West area, especially in light of the downgrading of Ennis General Hospital in recent years.
  Peadar Clancy/Mairéad Farrell Cumann, Clare

• 

  Motion 74. This Ard Fheis opposes any transition to trust status of hospital services in the 26 Counties that would result in adverse changes to healthcare workers’ contracts of employment, pay or conditions.
  Coen/Savage Cumann, Sligo

• 

  Motion 73. In light of the continuing acute need for organ transplants and the unacceptably long waiting lists, the increased debate and public knowledge on this issue in the past year, and the wider recognition that changing to a soft opt-out system in relation to organ donation in Ireland has the potential to greatly increase our rate of organ donation, this Ard Fheis reaffirms our call on the Irish Government to:
  • Conduct an extensive consultation with stakeholders and the general public.
  • Publish legislation to introduce a soft opt-out system of organ donation.
  • Put the necessary resources and infrastructure in place to support the new system.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 72. This Ard Fheis calls for a unified, all-Ireland health service to give the Irish people the best possible healthcare, free at the point of delivery.
  Carty/Mac Giolla Brighde/Fleming Cumann, Donegal

• 

  Motion 71. This Ard Fheis calls for the immediate reinstatement of the discretionary medical cards to those that have had them taken away due to cuts by the Fine Gael/Labour Government in their recent austerity Budget.
  Donegal Comhairle Ceantair
  O’Malley/Russell Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 70. This Ard Fheis notes the inconsistency of Roads Service criteria in different divisions for installing ramps/vertical deflection schemes, notes the added risk this introduces for pedestrians in rural towns and villages outside of Western division, and calls on the Regional Development Minister to take pedestrian safety more seriously in rural areas by addressing Roads Service resistance to these schemes.
  North Antrim Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 69. This Ard Fheis recognises the efforts of those involved in road safety campaigns in both rural and urban communities and supports the ‘20’s Plenty’ campaign and the need for 20mph to be the default speed limit in built-up areas.
  North Antrim Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 68. This Ard Fheis recognises that cycling as a mode of transport can:
  - Help improve physical health, mental health and well-being and combats stress.
  - Significantly reduces a household’s transportation costs.
  - Reduces traffic congestion.
  - Reduces the number of sick days employees take.
  And calls upon the Minister for Regional Development to:
  - Bring forward plans to increase investment in cycling from the current amount of approximately 58p per person each year in the North to at least £10 per head of population.
  - Direct the new Cycling Unit to consider the case studies of Amsterdam and Copenhagen in regard to introducing separate, safe bicycle infrastructure.
  - Ensure cyclists are accommodated on Translink bus and rail services at all times and introduce adequate bicycle storage and racks on buses.
  - Ensure that cycle lanes are kept clear and enforced.
  - Introduce filter traffic lights and ‘bus stop islands’ for cyclists in towns and cities.
  Gerard Casey Cumann, Antrim

• 

  Motion 67. This Ard Fheis recognises the fact that the failure to introduce sufficient rail halts in rural areas on the Derry-Belfast line disadvantages rural communities that want to avail of public transport. This Ard Fheis calls on the Regional Development Minister to immediately bring forward proposals for a new halt to be introduced to address this gap in provision.
  North Antrim Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 66. This Ard Fheis proposes that as rail is one of the most fuel-efficient forms of bulk transport, its underlying infrastructure must remain in public ownership. Institutional or managerial inertia blocking or sabotaging its efficiency must be prioritised for removal over simplistic cost-cutting that attacks basic service provision at ground level.
  H-Block Martyrs Cumann, New Ross

• 

  Motion 65. This Ard Fheis asks the Ard Chomhairle to consider the possibility of formulating a detailed public transport plan for urban areas outside Dublin, and particularly the west of Ireland, to effectively address the transport issues affecting people of all ages within our communities.
  Galway West Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 64. This Ard Fheis calls on the Fine Gael/Labour Government to bring rural public transport to the fore in an effort to provide for isolated communities and to take the opportunity to move away from the current model of commuter transport in Ireland where all roads lead to Dublin.
  O'Donoghue/Keenan Cumann, Carlow

• 

  Motion 63. This Ard Fheis recognises the need for the development of a long-term strategy for providing first-class, affordable and accessible island-wide public transport to allow Ireland to reach its potential as a thriving modern society with an economy which attracts investment.
  This Ard Fheis also notes the importance of further development on an island-wide basis of road and rail infrastructure.
  This Ard Fheis further notes the funding available through the trans-European Network which has a budget of €49billion to develop transport systems across the EU.
  With this in mind, this Ard Fheis:
  • Reiterates its support for the A5 Western Transport Corridor and calls on both Transport Ministers, North and South, to increase their efforts to deliver this major infrastructural project.
  • Supports the immediate upgrading of the A6 Dungiven bypass and the progressing of the Ballynahinch bypass.
  • Reiterates support for the building of the Narrow Water Bridge.
  • Calls on the Irish Government and the North’s Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy to develop an all-Ireland plan to secure maximum drawdown of TEN-T funding and extend the TEN-T network beyond the eastern seaboard and into the west.
  • Calls for the A5/N2 transport corridor to be included on the TEN-T network.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige
  Limavady Comhairle Ceantair
  South Down Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 62. This Ard Fheis commends the work of the ‘Remember Our Volunteers Committee’ and encourages other areas to look at this innovative model of remembering our patriot dead as it honours our fallen comrades in such a way that archives their lives and preserves our history.
  Greater Ballymurphy Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 60. This Ard Fheis:
  - Commends the work of the Sinn Féin National Centenaries Committee for their work in 2013 marking the centenaries of the Lockout, the founding of the Irish Citizen Army and the Irish Volunteers
  - Commits to marking the centenary of Cumann na mBan in a similarly appropriate manner.
  Charlie McGlade Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 61. This Ard Fheis proposes that Sinn Féin should undertake a national publicity campaign, using both traditional and electronic media highlighting the significance of the Easter Lily, particularly in advance of the Easter period.
  Cumann Piaras McCann, Tipperary

• 

  Motion 59. This Ard Fheis believes that it would be inadvisable to enter into coalition with any right-wing party in the 26 Counties.
  Lawlor/Mulvihill/Clashmealcon Martyrs Cumann, Kerry

• 

  Motion 58. This Ard Fheis agrees that all Sinn Féin members be allowed to articulate and vote on the issue of abortion according to their conscience.
  Barrett/MacCurtain Cumann, Cork
  Rathcairn Cumann, Meath
  Driver/O’Boyle Cumann, Wicklow
  George McDermott Cumann, Meath
  T. J. Walsh Cumann, Sligo
  Drumsurn Cumann, Derry
  Coen/Savage Cumann, Sligo
  Gallagher/Foy Cumann, Meath
  Matthew Kane Cumann, Offaly
  Jim Lochrie Cumann, Armagh
  Dwyer/Devlin Cumann, Wicklow
  Edenderry Cumann, Offaly
  Buncrana Cumann, Donegal
  Gleann na Rua Cumann, Derry
  O’Donoghue/Keenan Cumann, Carlow

• 

  Motion 57. This Ard Fheis encourages responsible environmental behaviour and promotes the use of recycled goods for use in the production of election materials.
  Jim Lochrie Cumann, South Armagh

• 

  Motion 56. This Ard Fheis reaffirms Sinn Féin’s commitment to equality. We will ensure that all buildings used by the party are wheelchair accessible where possible to encourage more people with disabilities to join the party.
  East Cork Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 55. This Ard Fheis:
  - Reaffirms that we as a party must work towards the strengthening of the Irish language within Sinn Féin with a view to becoming a bilingual party
  - Reaffirms the party policy of publications being bilingual where possible and that this be adhered to.
  Lawlor/Mulvihill/Clashmealcon Martyrs Cumann, Kerry
  Cumann Mháirtín Uí Chadhain, Gaillimh

• 

  Motion 54. This Ard Fheis
  - Notes the success of the party recruitment programme.
  - Commits to an ongoing programme of party build, including increased membership, capacity building, political education, and enhancing internal party democracy.
  - Mandates the Ard Chomhairle to undertake a review of the party structures within a year to ensure that the appropriate structures and processes are fit for purpose as we enter elections in 2016. The report should include, where appropriate, recommendations for change.
  Tipperary Comhairle Ceantair
  Charlie McGlade Cumann, Dublin
  Six-County Cúige

• 

  Motion 53. This Ard Fheis:
  • Commends the work of Sinn Féin Republican Youth and the National Youth Committee.
  • Recognises the very particular challenges faced by young people in Ireland today.
  • Urges the fullest possible support for our young members and activists as they continue in their efforts to promote republican politics amongst their peers.
  • Calls for the serious consideration to the of re-establishing the position of National Youth Organiser as a full-time paid position within the party with explicit responsibility for youth development.
  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath
  National Youth Committee
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 52. This Ard Fheis condemns the media’s treatment of women; one that results in misogyny, rape culture, objectification of women and creates harmful stereotypes which could stifle the aspirations of potential female leaders.
  This Ard Fheis also calls on Sinn Féin to recognise the role women and feminism have to play in our party and calls on members to promote the highest standards in all aspects of life by doing the utmost to counter misogynistic culture.
  Jim Lochrie Cumann, South Armagh
  Darcy/Mellows Cumann, Galway

• 

  Motion 50. This Ard Fheis:
  • Commends the work of all those involved in the management and delivery of the new membership model.
  • Acknowledges the importance of political discussion and debate.
  • Calls for the roll-out of the new Sinn Féin political training course to be prioritised by the relevant party bodies in advance of the European and local government elections.

  Thomas Ashe Cumann, Meath

• 

  Motion 46. This Ard Fheis supports tougher sentencing for the crimes of aggravated burglary targeting the elderly in rural Ireland.
  Coen/Savage Cumann, Sligo

• 

  Motion 49. This Ard Fheis welcomes the introduction of the Mental Capacity Bill as a significant step in progressing and protecting the human rights and dignity for vulnerable individuals.
  Markievicz/O’Farrell Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 48. This Ard Fheis calls for urgent action by the Ministers for Justice, North and South, to level up the coroners’ systems on this island and to uphold the rights and entitlements of families to inquests which are fully compliant with Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige

• 

  Motion 47. This Ard Fheis:
  • Notes the abhorrently high level of sexual assault, sexual violence, gender-based violence and domestic violence across the island.
  • Recognises the annual ‘16 Days Against Gender Based Violence’ from 25th November
  • Commits to holding a national campaign against gender-based violence during the ‘16 Days’ against gender-based violence.

  And calls for;

  • Significant investment in preventative public awareness campaigns. This Ard Fheis fully endorses and supports the SAFE Ireland ‘Man Up’ campaign.
  • Investment in the further development of frontline specialist domestic violence services to meet the minimum Council of Europe standards and the forthcoming EU Victims Directive.
  • Root and branch review of the legal and policing system to address the systemic failures evidenced by research. This should include reviews of existing practice which is resulting in fragmentation of the legal systems response to victims and their children.
  • Mandatory specialist professional development monitoring for legal professionals to ensure that existing legislation is fully implemented.
  • The development of a comprehensive legislative definition for domestic violence which encompasses ‘coercive control’ and explicitly recognises these violations of human rights within Irish criminal law.
  • Calls for Adequate funding for women’s refuges.
  • Calls for an island-wide strategy to address gender-based violence.
  • The implementation of the EU Victims Directive in full before the deadline in 2015.
  • The ratification of the Council of Europe Convention on Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence without any further delay.
  O’Malley/McEvilly Cumann, Co Mayo
  Manchester Martyrs Cumann, Wexford
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Nolan/Downey Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 45. This Ard Fheis condemns the closure of Garda stations in rural Ireland. The Irish Government’s cost-cutting policy has resulted in a spike in house robberies and a general sense of fear pervading rural communities, particularly among elderly residents living alone.
  Wexford Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 44. This Ard Fheis calls for a comprehensive workforce strategy, with timetables and targets, towards achieving a fully representative, properly civilianised policing service in the North of Ireland.
  This Ard Fheis also calls for an immediate end to the PSNI policy of rehiring retired police officers into civilian roles.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 43. This Ard Fheis calls for a ‘Safer Streets’ policy to incorporate the Garda and local councils and communities to fight against the scourge of anti-social behaviour. There needs to be an increased Garda presence on our streets.
  Charlie McGlade Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 42. This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish Government to introduce legislation which would once and for all create a truly independent policing authority in the 26 Counties.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae

• 

  Motion 41. This Ard Fheis recognises the progress that has been made in recent years surrounding the development of community safety structures that provide platforms for ‘critical engagement’ processes with statutory bodies to flourish. There is much distance to travel if we are to have accountable, community-focused statutory services and we call on this Ard Fheis to mark up progress and redouble our efforts in this regard.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Riverdale Cumann, Belfast
  Greater Ballymurphy Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 40. This Ard Fheis reaffirms our support to the Jordan family as they continue their quest for truth and justice for their murdered son, Pearse. We call for the recent inquest to be reopened and for all files in relation to his murder be fully disclosed. We place on record our continued admiration to Pearse’s parents, Theresa and Hugh. Their continued stamina and determination serve as an inspiration to all who search for truth and justice.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Greater Ballymurphy Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 39. This Ard Fheis commends all of those who have campaigned for truth about the British state involvement in killings in Ireland (including the family of Pat Finucane, the Ballymurphy Massacre, and the New Lodge Six) and calls on the Irish Government to press London to come clean about the involvement of members of the British Army, RUC, Ulster Defence Regiment and RIR in the Glenanne Gang and the Military Reaction Force in killing Irish citizens
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Six-County Cúige
  Traoloch Mac Suibhne Cumann, Cork

• 

  Motion 38. This Ard Fheis notes the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Loughinisland Massacre in June, reiterates its support for the Loughinisland families in their quest for justice, and further calls upon the PSNI Ombudsman to leave no stone unturned in the Ombudsman’s efforts at revealing the extent to which British collusion played a part in the murder of six innocent people in 1994.
  South Down Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 37. This Ard Fheis resolves that Sinn Féin in both political institutions will continue to maximise our co-operation with Coiste na nIarchimí and other stakeholder partners to challenge any legal, political or societal barriers to employment, travel or otherwise facing political ex-prisoners now and in the future.
  This Ard Fheis also refutes all recent attempts to criminalise republicans and stands in solidarity with those discriminated in regards to employment via the Taxi Licensing Act in the 26 Counties and the SPAD legislation in the North.
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  O’Malley/Russell Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 36. This Ard Fheis call on the British Government to fulfil its commitment under the Weston Park Agreement in relation to OTRs.
  McCabe/Quigley Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 35. This Ard Fheis calls for a process of engagement and reaching out to republicans who may have become detached from the political process and we call on the party to set about developing a plan in each of the Cúigí to bring this forward.
  Cumann Feirste, Belfast
  Andersonstown Martyrs Cumann, Belfast
  Lenadoon Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 34. This Ard Fheis respects the rights of all citizens to celebrate their culture and identity in an acceptable manner while recognising and respecting the perceptions of those who may view such displays as overtly sectarian, intimidating and indeed threatening in nature. Failure to do so perpetuates division and instability.
  We are committed to proactively work with the republican/nationalist community to develop agreed protocols around flags, symbols and emblems with our unionist/loyalist neighbours which should be underpinned in legislation through measures set out in our submission to the recent talks chaired by Dr Richard Haass and Meghan O’Sullivan.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 32. This Ard Fheis agrees with the business community and trade unions that political stability is key to economic development and job creation in the North, condemns the actions of those opposed to the Peace Process who have used unlawful means to undermine the political institutions, and commits itself to oppose any efforts to undermine the political institutions in the North.
  Gerard Casey Cumann, Antrim

• 

  Motion 33. This Ard Fheis reiterates Sinn Féin’s view that dialogue and ultimately agreement between those wishing to parade and local communities is the desired and most effective way to advance the resolution to the small number of controversial parades which impact so negatively on society; that interim to the achievement of that position, effective regulation of controversial parades is maintained and developed.
  This Ard Fheis believes the following are necessary elements of dealing with the overall issue of parades:
  - Adoption of a rights-based approach within the European Commission on Human Rights (ECHR) framework.
  - Recognition of the competing rights of those who wish to exercise the right to freedom of assembly and the rights and freedoms of others who live, work, shop, trade and carry on business in the areas through which they seek to parade.
  - Recent case law of the European Court indicates that “the rights and freedoms of others” includes protection from racist/sectarian expression. The principal Council of Europe treaty body dealing with racism has characterised sectarianism here as a form of racism. The UN Anti-Racism Committee has also adopted a similar position. Accordingly, this case law, dealing with restrictions on racist expression, including parade-related expression, should also apply to sectarianism here.
  - The right of everyone to be free from sectarian harassment.
  - Meaningful dialogue between those wishing to march and local communities where there is contention about specific proposed parades.
  - Stronger powers of regulation for the Parades Commission.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 31. This Ard Fheis reiterates our support for the terms of the Good Friday Agreement which govern how the issues of flags, symbols, emblems and equality (including cultural issues such as parades) are to be addressed and dealt with.
  That is:
  - “… founded on the principles of full respect for, and equality of, civic, political, social and cultural rights, of freedom from discrimination for all citizens and of parity of esteem and of just and equal treatment for the identity, ethos and aspirations of both communities.”
  - “… the right to freedom from sectarian harassment.”
  - “… to ensure that… symbols and emblems are used in a manner which promotes mutual respect rather than division.”
  - The British Government, under the terms set out above has, as “the government with jurisdiction”, the lead responsibility to provide “parity of esteem and… just and equal treatment for… both communities”.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 30. This Ard Fheis reiterates support for the Good Friday Agreement’s ‘Equality of Treatment’ duty on public authorities which was explicitly singled out in the Agreement to be enshrined with the Bill of Rights:
  “The formulating of a general obligation on government and public bodies fully to respect on the basis of equality of treatment, the identity and ethos of both communities.”
  We support the recommendation of the Human Rights Commission (HRC), tasked with the formulation of the Bill, that:
  “Public authorities must fully respect, on the basis of equality of treatment, the identity and ethos of both main communities in NI. No one relying on this provision may do so in a manner inconsistent with the rights and freedoms of others.”
  In the context of a divided society, public authorities cannot reflect the national identity of the community as a whole. In respect of the public use of flags, emblems and symbols and in line with the provisions of the Good Friday Agreement, Sinn Féin has proposed a policy of ‘equality or neutrality’. What is required is a manifestation of mutual respect for both political or national identities, British and Irish.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 29. This Ard Fheis calls on the Irish and British governments to initiate a renewed engagement, on the establishment of a Bill of Rights for the North of Ireland and the creation of an all-Ireland Charter of Rights as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement.
  This Ard Fheis calls on the Good Friday Agreement Committee to devise and initiate an agreed action plan to progress the establishment of a Bill of Rights for the North of Ireland and the creation of an all-Ireland Charter of Rights as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 28. This Ard Fheis deplores the endemic influence of sectarianism and sectarian segregation in society in the north; both are central to our contested past and perpetuate and reinforce existing divisions and polarisation.
  We applaud organisations, communities and citizens who have confronted the challenges this creates.
  There is no acceptable level of sectarianism. It is unjustifiable.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  • All political leaders and political parties to unite in mobilising a popular campaign against sectarianism and sectarian segregation.
  • The promotion of a citizens’ anti-sectarian charter.
  • The introduction of anti-sectarian legislation and a Bill of Rights.
  • The formulation and implementation of effective anti-sectarianism policies in the political institutions.

  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 27. This Ard Fheis notes that commemoration and remembrance have become a new source of division within our peace and political processes.
  We recognise that, because our past is contested, disagreement exists on the nature of commemoration and remembrance.
  Sinn Féin believes that all commemoration and remembrance should be conducted on the basis of dignity, mutual respect and without causing offence
  This Ard Fheis commends the great work Mairtin Ó Muilleoir has done while in the office of Mayor of Belfast. This builds on the work in this respect commenced by Belfast’s first Sinn Féin Mayor, Alex Maskey, which was subsequently developed by Tom Hartley and Niall Ó Donnghaile. We support the continuation of his outreach work and wish him every success for the remainder of this office.
  This Ard Fheis calls for positive cross-party and cross-community engagement to agree a culture of commemoration which supports reconciliation and contributes to a shared future.
  Ard Chomhairle
  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  North Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  South & East Belfast Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 26. This Ard Fheis applauds the continued efforts by Sinn Féin and others to widen and deepen support for a reconciliation process.
  Reconciliation is a collective societal responsibility in which the two governments and political leaderships have a particular and onerous responsibility.
  We welcome the positive public and private contributions to this discussion, especially on the urgency of, and need for a practical initiative needed to embed an inclusive reconciliation process.
  As a society we have much to forgive, and to have forgiven, due to the past and recent history of conflict in Ireland.
  Our party believes an inclusive healing process is urgently required to address, accept and acknowledge the suffering of each other and the context which caused that pain.
  This Ard Fheis supports an initiative of common acknowledgement by all sides to introduce a new, powerful dynamic to the Peace Process. We call for the re-establishment of the Civic Forum as set out within the Good Friday Agreement as a vehicle to progress the development of a reconciliation process.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 25. That this Ard Fheis:
  - Calls on the Irish Government to immediately introduce equality budget proofing and impact assessments on a statutory basis by all departments and public bodies in exercising their functions. This action is to compel them to carry this out in a way that is designed to reduce the inequalities of outcome which result from socio-economic disadvantage and provide enhanced protections from the state by broadening the existing anti-discriminatory categories in the Equal Status Act 2004.
  - Calls for the Equality Impact Assessment scheme of each department and public body to be assessed for compliance and monitored by the Equality Authority.
  - Reaffirms our support for the equality budgeting campaign comprising a broad-based coalition of trade unions, NGOs and concerned individuals seeking the introduction of equality budgeting in the 26 Counties.
  - Endorses the view that, in the creation of any statutory policy, obligation or item of legislation formulated in the Six-County Assembly, the requirement for Equality Impact Assessment is adhered to in all appropriate cases and particularly where a change could significantly impact on any section of the population.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Six-County Cúige

• 

  Motion 24. This Ard Fheis notes:
  • The economy of the North is in need of sustainable jobs and growth and substantial reform.
  • The full economic potential of Ireland can only be realised through a single island economy.
  • The continual refusal by the British state to provide accurate figures regarding the economic position of the North.
  • The continual reliance of the North’s Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) on economic guesswork based on inaccurate economic estimates.
  • The current review of fiscal powers being undertaken by the Northern Executive and the British Government
  • The continual repetition of DFP’s opposition to further fiscal devolution in response to parliamentary questions regarding the review.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  • The British Government to provide a full and accurate statement of all forms of revenue generated within the North and of the economic position of the North.
  • The development of accurate measures of GDP, GNP, etc., and fact-based economic policy.
  • The transfer of fiscal powers from Westminster to the Executive and Assembly.
  • The development and co-ordination of economic policy across Ireland.
  • A strategy for economic reform in the North which has the aim of building a strong, equitable and prosperous economy.
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Nolan/Downey Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 23. This Ard Fheis notes:
  • The economies of both the North and South of Ireland are fractured and in need of substantial reform.
  • A single island economy across the island of Ireland would have a positive impact on trade, investment, economic growth, workforce skills, productivity, innovation, research and development.
  • There are no advantages for an island nation of 6.4million people on the edge of Europe having two separate tax regimes, two currencies and two legal systems, two public service systems and two separate, competing economies.
  This Ard Fheis recognises:
  • With vision, determination and the application of our combined energies and abilities, North and South, we can construct a sustainable and prosperous economy and a more equitable society across Ireland for the benefit of all its people.
  • Realising the vision of a single island economy requires the full and active participation of the Irish Government, the Northern Executive and Assembly.
  • Harmonising structures across the island is central to creating a fully integrated and healthy economy.
  • The absence of fiscal powers in the North prevents the Executive developing an indigenous fiscal regime that would bring about the required economic change and assist the development of a single island economy.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  • The devolution of fiscal powers to the Executive and Assembly.
  • A full and detailed examination of the best use of resources and the most appropriate models of accountability for economic delivery across the island.
  • Departments in both jurisdictions to identify shared projects from planning stage to completion.
  • The Irish Government and the Assembly to produce a timescale for developing integrated public services across the island.

  West Belfast Comhairle Ceantair
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Nolan/Downey Cumann, Belfast

• 

  Motion 22. This Ard Fheis recognises:
  - That the island of Ireland has been, and continues to be, denied its economic sovereignty by the decision of the Irish Government to cede control of, and allow supervision of, the budgetary process by Europe and by the failure of the British Government to devolve fiscal decision-making to the Assembly.
  - After three years in a Troika programme, and with successive complicit governments, the 26 Counties’ public services have been decimated and the tax burden placed heaviest on those least able to afford it and for the purpose of bailing out the banks.
  - Exiting the Troika programme has not removed monitoring of the 26-County Budget process and the austerity agenda continues to be pursued.
  - Westminster continues to implement an austerity agenda that has manifested in cuts to the Assembly block grant, with Six-County politicians having to ameliorate the effect of the cuts while not having the power to change taxation.
  This Ard Fheis commits to:
  - Continue demanding the devolution of fiscal powers to the Six Counties and to work with other parties in the North to win support for this position.
  - Highlight the failure of the Irish Government to protect the economic sovereignty of the 26 Counties but also their own austerity agenda, which they have tried to use the loss of that sovereignty to mask.
  - Offer the public in both jurisdictions viable economic alternatives that can be achieved if economic sovereignty is given political priority, as well as presenting a vision for a successful equality-based economy on a united island.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Terry Clarke Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 20. This Ard Fheis supports and endorses the document Protecting Workers Rights - Sinn Féin Proposals for Reform, including;
  - Strengthening workers’ rights and streamlining employment rights bodies and procedures, to ensure early resolution of work place disputes and robust enforcement of employment rights legislation.
  - Ensuring Collective Bargaining Rights are introduced in keeping with ILO Conventions and the European Court of Human Rights.

  • Ensuring the right to union recognition and collective bargaining is enshrined in law.
  • All workers are entitled to decent work and to be treated with respect and human dignity. The right to respect and dignity in the workplace should be enshrined in law, and should be reflected in decent pay and good working conditions.
    Ard Chomhairle Carlow/Kilkenny Comhairle Ceantair Peadar Clancy/Mairéad Farrell Cumann, Clare
• 

  Motion 19. This Ard Fheis notes:
  - That the introduction of water charges at a time when hard-pressed taxpayers are already struggling will push many further into poverty.
  - That the introduction of these charges comes on top of continuing job losses, falling incomes, and increased taxes and charges, including the Property Tax.
  This Ard Fheis commends:
  - The role of Sinn Féin in blocking the introduction of water rates in the Northern Assembly.
  - The proactive opposition to water charges in the South by the Leinster House team.
  This Ard Fheis reiterates:
  - The party’s opposition to the Irish Government’s plan to install water meters and to introduce water charges.
  - Opposition to the establishment of Irish Water as a subsidiary of An Bord Gáis, a company which the Irish Government intends to sell off.
  - Sinn Féin opposition to water being cut off or pressure being reduced due to non-payment.
  This Ard Fheis calls for:
  - The development of an all-Ireland strategy on water provision.
  - The establishment of a National Water Sector Framework Team to oversee governance of the water sector and capital investment for the sector.
  - The Assembly and Irish Government to collaborate on the delivery of services the establishment of joint river basin management in Border regions, joint capital investment and in infrastructure and procurement.
  - Investment in upgrading the ageing, leaking water distribution system.
  Ard Chomhairle
  Wolfe Tone Cumann, Kildare
  Michael J. Marren Cumann, Sligo
  Donegal Comhairle Ceantair
  James Fintan Lalor Cumann, Laois
  Fr Murphy/Keegan/Parle Cumann, Wexford
  West Limerick Cumann
  Cumann Pádraig Ó Cadhain/Margaret Joyce, Galway

• 

  Motion 18. This Ard Fheis believes:
  - That the status of religious institutions as charities should be revoked in the 26 Counties.
  - That religious institutions should not have a special position within Irish society.
  Therefore, this Ard Fheis calls on the 26-County Government to apply the same tax laws to religious institutions as are applied to companies.
  Martin Hurson Cumann, UCC

• 

  Motion 17. This Ard Fheis condemns the Irish Government’s stance in the inequality of the treatment of single fathers in the abolition of the Single Parent Tax Credit.
  Andy O’Sullivan Cumann, Cork

• 

  Motion 16. This Ard Fheis reiterates its support in principle for a Tobin Tax (a tax on financial transactions), the proceeds of which should be used for development of the global economy and not as a funding mechanism for the European Union. This Ard Fheis also notes the EU Commission’s proposals for a Financial Transaction Tax but believes it falls short of our ideal of a progressive tax on financial speculation in a number of ways.
  Kerry Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 15. This Ard Fheis acknowledges that, after five years of economic crisis, a €65billion bail-out for the banks in the 26 Counties, and the slashing of €30billion from the Southern economy, the cost of living in the 26 Counties remains unsustainably high.
  We recognise that a combination of higher taxes and fewer public services, added to job losses and huge personal indebtedness, is causing suffering for families across the state and that successive Budgets have failed to ameliorate that.
  We commend the party’s TDs for producing another ‘Alternative Budget’ submission last October which would have abolished the Property Tax, reinstated the respite care grant, increased fuel allowance, reduced the cost of school books and rolled out school meals to 500 additional schools, among other measures, all ultimately reducing the cost of living for those most in need.
  Sinn Féin reiterates the commitment that in government we will reduce the tax burden for ordinary families; protect public services; and prioritise the creation of quality, sustainable jobs.
  Ard Chomhairle

• 

  Motion 14. This Ard Fheis recognises that the burden of over €30billion in taxes and cuts in the 26 Counties has fallen disproportionately on low-income and middle-income earners.
  We acknowledge that these groups have been hit with a tax band reduction; the Universal Social Charge; increased VAT and excise duty; higher motor tax and the Household Charge among other taxes, and have now been hit with the Property Tax.
  Sinn Féin opposed and sought to repeal the introduction of the Property Tax and provided for its abolition in our ‘Alternative Budget’ submission to Government. This would save 1.8million homeowners an average of €278 each per annum.
  We warned that the tax would not be used to fund local government and have now been proven correct, with the money that has been collected for 2013 going straight to central government funding.
  We call for an exemption of the transaction charge for individuals paying their Local Property Tax in instalments via An Post or other service providers.
  Sinn Féin commits itself to abolishing the Property Tax in government and introducing fair and progressive tax measures to fund the first-class public services our policies would provide.
  Ard Chomhairle
  John Joe Sheehy Cumann, Kerry

• 

  Motion 13. This Ard Fheis notes the failure of private mobile phone companies to provide adequate coverage in rural communities; calls for the provision of 100% indoor coverage from 4G mobile phone coverage across the island of Ireland, with any additional funding required to be secured from local councils, the Executive, the Dublin and London governments and the Connecting Europe Facility; and further calls for the abolition of roaming charges across Ireland.
  South Armagh Comhairle Ceantair
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae

• 

  Motion 12. This Ard Fheis calls for the introduction of a statutory Universal Broadband Service Obligation to ensure that every home and business across the island of Ireland has access to a fast, reliable and affordable broadband internet connection.
  This Ard Fheis welcomes the investment by the Six County Agriculture Minister to address ‘not spots’ and calls on the Executive to work together to rectify the imbalance so that rural dwellers and businesses are not disadvantaged.
  South Armagh Comhairle Ceantair
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 26 Contae
  Grúpa Parlaiminteach na 6 Chontae
  Coalisland/Clonoe Martyrs Cumann, Tyrone

• 

  Motion 11. This Ard Fheis resolves that it will prioritise the creation of at least one ‘public purpose bank’ with capital from the National Pension Reserve Funds and charge it, firstly, to provide lending at low-interest rates for public investment in infrastructure for water and waste water systems, the ‘distributed power’ grid and renewable energy generation assets. Also to provide lending at low-interest rates to local community companies, co-operatives and individuals to develop or purchase renewable energy generation assets.
  Robert Emmet Cumann, Dublin

• 

  Motion 10. This Ard Fheis:
  - Notes that Fine Gael and Labour in government and previous Fianna Fáil-led governments have collectively cut public sector staffing levels by nearly 10%.
  - Criticises the intention of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to further reduce the number employed in the public service by 7,900 - an additional 2.7%.
  - Believes the current public sector annual staffing ceilings are inadequate to deliver necessary local services.
  - Calls on the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to agree to increase the annual staffing ceiling for local authorities.
  Donegal Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 9. This Ard Fheis calls upon the Irish Government to explore the possibility of creating a semi-state company that will provide a reliable cloud computing platform hosted in Ireland for indigenous businesses to enjoy an affordable, secure environment in which to operate and grow their enterprises.
  Dublin Cúige

• 

  Motion 8. This Ard Fheis, in the interest of creating a fair and equitable construction sector, calls for;
  • All large construction companies working on public building projects will give an undertaking during the tendering process to guarantee that all sub-contractors are paid on time and in line with agreements as set out by both parties during negotiations to secure such contracts.
  • Monies paid to these companies by government will be released on a phased basis with a stipulation on compliance with agreed contracts and pay structures between main contractors and sub-contractors.
  Meath Comhairle Ceantair

• 

  Motion 6. This Ard Fheis condemns the Irish Government’s plan to sell off the valuable inland port in New Ross and notes that successive regimes have run the port into the ground.
  H-Block Martyrs Cumann, New Ross