Glór Mhic Airt

Wee Harry

2012-01-30T13:58:00.007Z

Harry with Gerry A and RG during their visit to Palestine

At the 'Le Chéile' event during the Ard Fheis in Belfast

Harry at the parade in the Short Strand to open 'An Tine Bheo' Memorial Garden

At Belfast's '40 under 40' in Queens University

Attending the Ard Fheis in the Waterfront Hall (and no doubt talking about the scéal in Ballymaccarett!)

I haven't written on my blog for some time - but hearing the news of the passing of Harry Thompson compelled me to write down my thoughts on a friend, a comrade and a fellow Ballymaccarett man.

Like most Belfast republicans, I've known "Wee Harry" for years - growing up, he was a regular feature during reflections people would engage in about "years ago". His name always came up - but he wasn't a historical figure by any stretch of the imagination. He was at everything; Saoirse rallies, Easter Parades, Commemoration nights, Republican Family meetings, white line vigils. At all of these things, Wee Harry would be front and centre.

As a kid I got to know Harry because I was in the same school year as his daughter Ellen. He immediately spied me as being from the Strand when he saw me with my parents, who he had known for years. Harry and I immediately struck up a friendship, because that was the nature of the man - he loved people; he loved to get to know them; everyone who knows Wee Harry will recognise these familiar words, or something very similar, that he regularly opened a conversation with;

"Well how are you? How's you're mummy? And what about your da? How are things in the district? Are they going well for you? Great people! Don't worry, you have them with you. Good people, good people."

He always took the time to ask about others. He never complained.

You couldn't help but love Wee Harry - his passion for his family, his community and our struggle was infectious! He never stopped.

Whether traveling the world in support of the Republican Movement, or accompanying Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams to Gaza after vicious bombardments, or dedicating his life to supporting republican POWs and their families, Harry played his part.

He was so proud to welcome the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis to his native Béal Feirste for the first time ever in September last year. After I addressed delegates on the Friday evening and was making my way off stage, there was Wee Harry, waiting in the wings. I hadn't seen him in a while and as always it was a great boost and lift, after throwing the arms around him, to hear what his thoughts were on the politics of the day and where the struggle was at.

Appropriately at this years "Le Chéile" event during the Ard Fheis, Harry, alongside Annie Cahill, was the nominee from Cúige Uladh.

In typical, selfless fashion, when accepting his honour Harry didn't think of himself, he thought of others. Unsurprisingly, he dedicated his award to "the women - the women who had done so much for us."

That was Harry.

Another immediate feature people recognised in him was his overflowing love for his Clann - and in return, all of Harry's girls (or Foireann Harry as they call themselves!) doted on their dáidí.

A short time ago I visited Harry at home - I called in between engagements and was travelling in the Mayor's car; I also had the chain of office with me. Harry, Cathy, Ellen, Niamh and Aisling were all there and greeted us in typical Belfast fashion. As always, the house was open; and no doubt the many hundreds who visited their house in recent times will have encountered that same Céad Míle Fáilte.

Harry was up and about that day, he was in great form and had put his suit on - Harry was forever telling me (and anyone who would listen!) about the significance of having a Short Strand man in the office of Mayor. Like many, Harry had struggled through much darker days in Ireland and with thanks to him and them, we are in a changed and better place.

Harry's energy and activism would put many a younger comrade to shame!

Even in illness, he ventured over the bridge and back home to his own Parish and helped us deliver the eve of poll letter in the Strand the night before the elections last May. And that was by no means the exception to the rule. All over Ireland he canvassed, leafleted or organised - and when it called for it, Harry rebelled, agitated and fought!

As always Wee Harry did his bit.

He had a deep grá for his home patch and we in return had a deep grá for him. He never forgot where he came from and was always a friend and supporter to many individuals, families and projects in our district. In recent years himself and Cathy joined a huge squad from the Strand on a holiday to sunny Spain. By all accounts the craic was great and even Dickie was there to keep Harry company.

His last contribution in the area was to play a central role in realising the building and dedication of "An Tine Bheo", the Republican Memorial Garden and Project in the Short Strand. Harry knew the importance of honouring and maintaining the memory of our Patriot Dead and had a deep commitment to it.

Across Belfast, across Ireland and indeed across the world, people will mourn the loss of Harry - not least in the United States where Harry found himself with a new, extended family and developed many relationships in support of the struggle back home in Ireland.

But nowhere will his loss be felt more than amongst his own family. Cathy and his girls. His brothers Seamus, Tony, John and Joe and his sister Lily.

Tá mo croí bhriste daoibhe ar fad.

No few words will sum up the life of Óglach Harry Thompson - he impacted on so many peoples lives and so many people will have fond and cherished memories of Harry and his trusted friendship. There is so much I haven't even touched on about the eventful but happy life of this republican activist - but that's ok as there's no doubt others will feel like me, and want to put their reflections down in black and white.

While Harry's passing will leave many of us feeling sad, we can be sure in the knowledge that Harry played his part - he reared a good Clann, who are equally as committed to their people, their culture and their country as he. With them, Wee Harry really did his finest work, and his daughters and grandchildren are a clear testimony to that. His love for his wife Cathy was as plain as the nose on your face - they had great craic together. She will no doubt miss him dearly.

Harry is from a tremendous generation of Irish people who took the brave stand to finally throw off the shackles of the failed Orange State; to struggle in pursuit of what was and remains our ultimate goal, the freedom and unity of our country.

For Harry and for those many people like him, in communities and in families and in homes right across this island, the onus remains on us to ensure we achieve those goals.

We are extremely lucky to have people like Harry Thompson in our midst; but we're even luckier when we get to know them.

On behalf of the Republican Family in Short Strand / Ballymaccarett - our thoughts and prayers are with his entire clann at this sad time.

Thanks for everything comrade.

Codladh Sámh a chara.

Job Done

2011-05-14T16:23:00.002+01:00

So sin é - Elections 2011 are over (at least until the by-election in west Béal Feirste next month!)

There's a lot I'd like to and probably should say, but for fear of loosing you, the faithful reader, I will simply thank all of those who placed their trust in me as well as Sinn Féin and decided to elect me to Belfast City Council.

For all candidates the run up to an election is hectic; from one door to another:

"Hello, my name is Niall Ó Donnghaile; I'm the Sinn Féin candidate for the Election on May 5th. I was just wondering if you had a few minutes for a chat or if there are any issues you wish to raise?"

I sometimes wonder am I repeating this mantra in my sleep?

But for all my messing, mantra or not, it paid off in the end!

To polling day itself; after a period of brilliant weather, my 5am rise was greeted with dull and drizzly weather - typical!

As always, we ventured to St Matthews School, awaiting, what we hoped, would be a vast influx of Sinn Féin voters. As the day went on, we weren't disappointed.

Thanks to those who opened up their homes (and fridges and kitchen cupboards) to our activists working hard on the day and allowed us the space to turn their homes into something resembling the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, with people shouting figures across the room, computers wizzing, printers printing and wires galore we were lucky no one tripped!

As polling day progressed, it became clear that some of the Electoral Office staff weren't entirely ofay with what had to be done given the fact that there were three different ballots on the one day - it also became clear that the three papers were causing a lot of confusion, particularly for our older citizens. We stressed with them the need to improve the process of giving people papers, explaining what they to do and allowing them the chance to exercise their vote. After some time the process improved and we are thankful to the staff for their work on the day.

As the evening drew in we were glad to see a rush of people, returning home from university, work, (special mention to the one who came all the way from Kerry!) and other places to cast their votes - it also saw our team swelling as supporters wanted to play their part in what had the potential to be a great victory.

Again Sinn Féin thanks them all and thanks everyone who voted Sinn Féin number one or indeed those who didn't but heeded our message that sometimes a transfer was just as important!

As for the Assembly Count in Newtonards - well that's a blog (or novel!) for another time.

I am delighted to have been elected to represent the people of Pottinger in City Hall; I look forward to working with my fellow Councillors for the area on the issues affecting our people day and daily on the ground.

For too long now many people (including some from the Protestant/Unionist/Loyalist community) felt that having solely Unionist representation for Pottinger was not allowing a voice for many citizens, particularly those in working class inner east Belfast - following this weeks result, one thing is for certain, that is about to change.

As for Béal Feirste over all - Sinn Féin is again the largest party increasing our share of seats under the 'Dome of Delight' from 14 to 16 - many of us were bitterly disappointed (particularly given the year that's in it) not to be welcoming Mary Doyle, former Armagh protesting POW and Hunger Striker, onto the Council with us. Also the loss of Briege Bownlee, herself a former protesting POW, will no doubt be a blow to the people of the lower Falls who will fell the loss of her hard work on Council the most.

I have no doubt that both women will continue to work for our people and ensure a voice for them enters into City Hall next time around.

As for my newly elected and re-elected comrades; I look forward to working with and helping them all over the term of Belfast City Council. Go n-eirí linn!

A few short weeks ago at Easter, I had the tremendous honour and privilege to speak at the Republican monument in the Short Strand, 'An Tine Bheo'.

I spoke about the importance of what An Tine Bheo (The Living Flame) meant for Republicans right across Ireland as we continue to grow and advance our republican project.

For me An Tine Bheo is the legacy left to us by the men and women who have gone before; who struggled, fought, campaigned, protested and died in pursuit of our ultimate objectives. We continue to take our lead, our inspiration, our courage and our determination from them as we pursue a new era of republican struggle.

An Tine Bheo is not bricks or mortar; it is in us; it is of us; and now it shines brighter than ever in Stormont, in Leinster House, Belfast City Hall and in institutions right across Ireland and beyond.

Beirigí Bua!

Election Campaign 2011

2011-04-01T15:13:00.003+01:00

Apologies for the lack of blogging in recent times, while other candidates seems to go into blogging overdrive I can't seem to find the time between putting up posters and rapping doors!

I handed in my nomination papers for the Assembly election yesterday (thanks to everyone who signed them!) at Newtonards. Our photo shows me and my election agent Hugh. Next week I'll submit my nomination papers for the Council elections at Belfast City Hall alongside the other Sinn Féin candidates.

It's a busy time and while every other candidate will tell you canvasses have been 'great', 'brilliant', 'wonderful' srl, I have been happy with the feedback on my own up to this point.

People tend to use the opportunity to either declare their support for what you're doing, raise issues with you, remind you it's they who have the power to elect someone, or indeed tell you to clear off and never darken their door again!

With yesterday evening turning out to have such a bright and pleasant end to the day, we found a lot of people weren't at home while we were on the canvass trail; and who could blame people for taking the opportunity to venture over the bridge for some late shopping or take the kids for a kickabout up in Cherryvale? Or dare I say it, even slide round for a pint or two in St Matts or the Strand Bar??

We were also canvassing in Ravenhill last night, and I'm glad to see people were aware of the fact that in that particular part of the City they vote for Alex Maskey as the south Belfast Assembly candidate and me as the Pottinger Council candidate.

Sin an dóigh!

Well, I'm off for now and will keep up the canvassing and leafleting over the weekend. Maybe if you don't see me on the blog as much we might bump into each other on the door. Beirigí Bua!

Ó Donnghaile: Campaign for alley-gates in Short Strand goes on

2011-03-28T13:26:00.002+01:00

Here's a copy of a press release issued from me earlier today:

Sinn Féin candidate for Pottinger Niall Ó Donnghaile has said his party’s campaign to secure alley-gates for a number of streets in the Short Strand will continue.

Speaking from the area this morning Niall said;

“For some time now Sinn Féin, alongside residents in the Strand, has been campaigning to secure much needed alley-gates for a number of streets in the district.

In particular, the entry at Beechfield Street has presented consistent anti social problems which we have raised with the City Council and other statutory agencies for some time now.

Recently I chaired a meeting between Sinn Féin representatives, St Matthews Housing Association, Short Strand Community Forum, the PSNI and Belfast City Council all of whom were very clear about the immediate need for gates at this entry.

In fact the representatives from the Council made clear to those of us in attendance, that Beechfield Street was top of a citywide list for alley-gates, should additional monies become available.

The fact that this matter has gone on for so long, while other areas have secured alley-gating schemes, just goes to show the neglect of this community at a Council level over the past six years.

I commit myself to continue to work on this issue, confident that with the continued support of residents and community representatives we will be able to secure these gates.” CRÍOCH

A good buzz around the place......

2011-03-22T12:21:00.005Z

Photographed with the Rev Jesse Jackson are: myself, Cllr Deirdre Hargey, Alex Maskey MLA and Máirtín Ó Muilleoir

Great buzz around Stormont yesterday for the arrival of Sinn Féin's All-Ireland Team of elected representatives.

TDs (rightfully so!) strolled relaxed through the once hallowed halls of Stormont, being greeted by DUP Speaker of the House Willy Haye.

Other parties were noticeably absent around the building when the evidence of Sinn Féin's national representation became clear for all to see.

One notorious tweeting MLA, who is never too shy in getting his mug on the TV, walked past several times, aghast and open mouthed, in disbelieve at what he was seeing. Of course his party either doesn't want to get involved in 'Irish' politics or on the other hand can't make up it's mind which of the Free State parties it wants to climb into bed with!

But sure as we say as Ghaeilge, ‘sin scéal eile’!

Last night we kicked off the canvass proper in the Short Strand. We have been out and about doing registration over the last few weeks and of course are always in the area engaging with people but last night was the beginning of the campaign proper. People were welcoming, friendly and positive and I thank them for taking the time to speak with us and look forward to continued engagement over the coming weeks!

Last week I had the wonderful opportunity of meeting with Civil Rights Champion Rev Jesse Jackson as he visited St George’s Boxing Club in the Market area. His presence and words had an immediate impact on everyone gathered and for taking the time to speak with everyone gathered we thank him.

Conor Murphy returns to Short Strand

2011-03-10T15:38:00.012Z

Conor Murphy returns to Short Strand

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy today visited the Short Strand to meet with representatives of the local Partnership Board.

The purpose of his visit was so we could put our case forward for a new lay-by at the proposed childcare facility at Pottinger’s Quay.

I’ve blogged about our plans here

Conor and I were joined by interim Dirctor of the board Patricia Johnson and fellow board members Mairéad O’Donnell, Patrick Devlin, Conor Keenan, Jacquline O'Donnell and others.

Conor was joined by officials from Roads Service who seemed more than willing to take our ideas and plans forward; we very much look forward to continuing to work with them on this exciting local project.

We also stopped by the land at the former Mountpottinger Barracks site to keep Conor up to speed on the plans for the development of social housing.

We also thanked Conor and Roads Service for securing traffic calming measures for several streets in the area; Edgar Street, Madrid Street and Bryson Street.
Other political parties have tried to lay claim to this achievement but thankfully locally people saw their cynical move for what it was and can easily see through it as a bit of an election stunt.

I blogged on Conor’s previous visit here

In the meantime here are some pictures from today

Got to Dance!

2011-03-03T21:22:00.002Z

Strand Extreme are one of Belfast’s premier dancing troops!

The local hip-hoppers have been to so many championships and won so many titles ive lost count.

One thing that is for sure is that these kids can move.

Particular praise must go to the parents of the kids who have tramped the streets of the Strand in all kinds of weather, as have the dancers themselves, to collect money for Strand Extreme Hoodies, transport and all-round general assistance.

I think it’s fair to say that the people in our area have been very forthcoming in their willingness to help out and fair play to them.

I first encountered Strand Extreme when they ventured one night into St Matthews Club shaking their buckets and putting the onus on those of us who are all so often prepared to criticise the younger members of our community, to put our money where our mouth is and dig deep to help support them!

And they did a brilliant showcase of their dancing that night.

That’s why, with the help of Simon Little from Phoenix Gas’ ‘Energy for Children’ charity I was delighted to have been able to help secure £1700 for new equipment and gear for Strand Extreme and the Doyle Youth Club.

I certainly look forward to continuing to work with Energy for Children to see what continued support they can offer to our young people and those many people who give up their time to provide what is one of Belfast’s, if not Ireland’s, best youth facilities.

Big well done to Coocher and Leanna and everyone involved with Strand Extreme and the Doyle for all the hard work they put in.

Go neirí libh go léir!

NB: Our photo shows me with the Strand Extreme boys & girls as well as their teacher Leanna, senior youth worker at the Doyle, Paul 'Coocher' McCrory and Simon Little from Phoenix Gas on the left

Beep!! Beep!!

2011-03-03T20:33:00.002Z

Action Cancer’s Big Bus passes through the Strand

This week I, along with other community workers and representatives, welcomed the Action Cancer Big Bus into the Short Strand once more.

The service provide by this facility is valuable and I was delighted to hear that by mid-morning many local people had called into the bus and also into the Doyle where other health tests and services were available.

I want to commend everyone who helped put the Health Day together and thank all those who came in to offer their services. I have no doubt we’ll look to have them all back again soon!

Our photo shows me (usually I avoid heights!) with some of the organisers and workers at the Action Cancer Big Bus which set up home outside the Doyle all day.

St Matthews Attacked

2011-03-03T20:16:00.006Z

This morning, as I have sadly done numerous times before, I ventured to St Matthews Chapel having just received a phone call to say that the Church had been attacked.

As we all know St Matthews is no stranger to attacks and I have blogged on some of them in the past.

Obviously this paint attack was particularly upsetting to those attending Mass this morning, who, despite the countless attacks on this beautiful building over the years, never get used to it. Of particular concern to the Parish is the damage caused to the spotlights, which nightly light up the stunning edifice of the Chapel, which were smashed and the cost of repair will no doubt run into the thousands.

Here's a copy of the press release I issued today and our photo shows PUP Leader Brian Ervine who, along with party colleague called to see the damage caused to themselves.

That small gesture, alongside the occasion when myself, Joe O'Donnell and Bernie Black went across to the memorial on the Newtonards Road, show that both communities want these attacks to stop and stop now.

Ó Donnghaile condemns attack on St Matthews Chapel

Sinn Féin representative for east Belfast Niall Ó Donnghaile has slammed those responsible for an attack on St Mathews Chapel last night and has called for community leaders from all sections of the community to show leadership in order to send a clear message to those behind it.

The church had paint thrown at it and several of its exterior spotlights smashed, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Speaking this morning Mr Ó Donnghaile said:

“This attack in wholly unjustifiable and has caused considerable damage. As many parishioners came to mass this morning they were understandably very upset at the damage caused.

“These type of attacks are unfortunately a sporadic occurrence with particular groupings of young people from both sections of our community, who are well known to the PSNI, causing damage and upset on both sides of the interface.

“I along with other community representatives within the Short Strand did not back away from our responsibilities when the local memorial on the Newtownards Road was attacked and vandalised. I was glad to welcome Brian Ervine, leader of the Progressive Unionist Party to St Matthews so he could see the damage for himself; I commend him for that stand he has taken today and I believe that we can collectively send a message on behalf of our communities that we want this to stop and stop now.” CRÍOCH

Let's get the ball rolling

2011-03-02T17:27:00.004Z

Members of the Short Strand Partnership Board come together at the site of the former Mountpottinger Barracks site - News that housing is to be built on the site follows a long and hard fought campaign by the community in the area to see this vision realised

Our Pic shows me with Patricia Johnson (Interim Director Short Strand Partnership), Mairead O'Donnell (Short Strand Partnership), myself, Patrick Devlin (Chairman St Matthews Housing Association & Short Strand Partnership) and Jim Black (Director St Matthews Housing Association)

Statement from Short Strand Partnership

2011-03-01T16:29:00.002Z

Short Strand Partnership Board delighted at Housing for Mountpottinger

The Short Strand Partnership Board have expressed their delight at the announcement from the DSD this morning that the land left vacant following the demolition of Mountpottinger Barracks is be acquired for the purposes of developing social housing.

Interim Board Director Patricia Johnson, Chair of St Matthews Housing Association Patrick Devlin and local Sinn Féin Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile all welcomed the news.

In a joint statement they said;

“Our Partnership has always endorsed the position that this land would be best suited for the development of quality, social housing. We have been part of a long campaign and today’s news is no doubt a result of that hard work.

We look forward to seeing this land developed without delay.

Obviously it will be hugely beneficial for our community and once again we would encourage our neighbours who are in need of housing to ensure their name is on the Housing Executive’s waiting list. It is vital that we see this land best utilised for the common good of our community in a speedy and responsible fashion.

We have no doubt that our local, community based Housing Association, St Matthews, would be in an ideal position to take this exciting development forward.

What we need to see now is a meaningful engagement between the Department and ourselves in the local community.” ENDS

Conor Murphy to visit Short Strand once more

2011-02-23T13:42:00.005Z

Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy will again visit the Short Strand next month to meet myself and other representatives from the Short Strand Partnership Board.

The purpose of Conor’s visit, where he will be joined by officials from Roads Service, is for us to make the case for improved traffic access at the soon to be childcare facility at Pottinger’s Quay, ‘Water babies’.

As you may be aware the Partnership has acquired the ground floor space at ‘Pottinger’s Quay’ (at the junction of the Short Strand and Albertbridge Road) to develop an exciting new childcare/crèche facility which will provide much needed services not just for people in the Short Strand and inner east Belfast, but for many people travelling into work in Belfast city centre who can avail of the service.

This exciting project will also provide much needed jobs for people from the locality who have been fully trained in childcare provision. It will also allow for further training opportunities in this industry for young people from the locality.

With the support of a number of partners we hope to see the development open as soon as possible and given the predicted demand for space at the ‘Waterbabies’ crèche it is our view that changes to the current road layout would be necessary to create a safe space for parents to drop off and collect their children.

So positive opportunities lie ahead and much like Conor has been able to assist the community in other ways, we are confident he will do his best for us in relation to this.

Also worth pointing out I have contacted Housing Minister Alex Attwood inviting him to a site visit to the now vacant land at the former Mountpottinger Barracks site. I look forward to welcoming him to the Strand and making the case once again that the community want and need good quality social and family homes.

An explanation please?

2011-02-22T18:56:00.003Z

No, not of the sign in the picture, like most multi-lingual signage that's very straightforward and easy to understand!

Unless of course you're in the Alliance Party, for whatever reason, they are of the opinion that it's, "divisive", "confusing" and probably worst of all, "tribal".

Personally, I don't see it.

But while the Alliance Party seek to retain the votes they recieved within Unionist East Belfast at the last election, perhaps they could actually come out and tell us 'how' this kind of signage (in areas of course where there is a demand for them and where they are sought out) would be "divisive", "confusing" and "tribal"????

PS: I snapped the picture while canvassing in Chapelizod for sitting Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Housing Executive must step up

2011-01-18T13:50:00.002Z

This is me with Billy McDonagh.

Billy lives in a bungalow in the Short Strand.

Before Christmas during the freeze Billy rang me to say he was very concerned about the conditions of the windows in his home. This isn’t the first time Billy has been in touch, on numerous occasions I have had to lobby the Housing Executive and their contractors on his behalf.

The extreme weather exacerbated many of his concerns about the condition of his home and despite numerous visits from contractors, no substantial repair work has been carried out to his property.

Without doubt, the impact on Billy’s health has been negative.

During a meeting Sinn Féin held with the Chief Executive, Chairperson and senior management staff from the Housing Executive, I raised Billy’s case directly with them.

But back to the phone call Billy made to me pre-Christmas; he informed me that despite putting oil in the tank and having the heating on, large clumps of ice were forming around the INSIDE of his window frames. I checked the heating and while not an expert, to me it seemed to be working fine. As for his windows, I had never seen anything like it, the only thing I can think of to describe is similar to the ice that forms around the inside of your freezer door.

It is clear that despite his heating being on, Billy's home is loosing it through the unsuitable windows. Billy has informed me that on some occasions he wakes up in the morning and is able to see his breath.

This gives Billy and I cause for serious concern.

Following the holidays I also contacted the local Housing Executive and urged them to review Billy’s case without delay; they have agreed, but over a week has passed with no one coming to see him. While appreciating the Housing Executive are dealing with a substantial backlog of work, given the serious impact on Billy’s health and wellbeing, it baffles me how so much time would be allowed to lapse without even coming out to asses the condition of his home.

Billy makes the case and I support him in this, that his wooden windows are not up to scratch and it is our view that the Housing Executive should seek to replace them with more appropriate UPVC windows.

Appropriately Billy took a number of photos of the conditions of his windows during the freeze and these can indeed be passed onto the Housing Executive.

For our part, south & east Belfast Sinn Féin will be seeking a meeting with the Housing executive management to discuss this and a number of outstanding issues.

Don’t forget you can get in touch with our office if you need assistance on an issue like this or any other @ sandebelfast@sinn-fein.ie or 02890243194

Press Release

2011-01-13T17:13:00.002Z

Press Release issued earlier in relation to the PSNI seizing over £200,000 worth of drugs within Pottinger

Ó Donnghaile welcomes Ravenhill drugs seizure

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

Speaking this afternoon Niall said;

“Obviously any move to take illegal drugs off our streets is to be welcomed.

For some time now Sinn Féin have been raising the concerns of residents across the Pottinger area directly with the PSNI about apparent increases in drug dealing in the constituency.

As a community we must all ensure we stand against those who would peddle drugs within our areas.” CRÍOCH

GIVE WAY.....

2011-01-11T16:28:00.004Z

.....GIVE US HOMES!!!!

Here I am at the junction of Madrid Street while workers continue the work to demolish the former Mountpottinger PSNI Barracks.

At this stage regular readers are more than familiar with Sinn Féin and the Short Strand Community's long campaign to have this Barracks demolished and social, family homes put in it's place.

Images like this certainly highlight the success of our campaign!

I have been in contact with the contractor regarding the timeframe for complete removal of the base and continue to lobby the Department of Social Development on the urgent need for the site to be acquired and utilised for high standard family homes.

More to follow and as always I'll keep you informed.

Beir Bua

Niall

New Year

2011-01-06T10:58:00.004Z

Bliain úr faoi mhaise daoibh uilig

I haven't been blogging as regularly these days, between Christmas, snow and a broken boiler and burst pipe here and there, those of us involved in community activism have been somewhat focused on issues on the ground.

While I hope to blog much more extensively on the issue of the severe weather and the crisis which followed, as well as the negative and difficult experience of many constituents, perhaps this short video will give you at least some insight into what Sinn Féin has been doing in recent weeks.

A tour of some of Republican Belfast's Graves

2010-12-21T14:52:00.001Z

Mol an Óg........

2010-12-09T14:49:00.006Z

With Sue Ramsey at City Hall

Ag Bualadh le daltaí ó Coláiste Feirste / Meeting students from Coláiste Feirste

With fellow Short Strand man Ciarán

"No ifs, No buts, No education cuts........"

That was the cry from students and school pupils protesting against students fees and any planned cuts to the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA).

Sue Ramsey, who sits on the Assembly Employment and Learning Committee, Cllr Janice Austin and I all made our way down to the protest for a while.

Fair play to those young people leading the way on an issue of such importance to them, their families and their future!

Mol an Óg………

Not in my name…….

2010-12-02T16:56:00.002Z

Last night I ventured down to Belfast City Hall for the monthly Council meeting. The Sinn Féin Team pre-meeting starts well in advance of the Council meeting itself. There, Councillors and party support staff go through the minutes, motions and issues coming before the Council that night.

Once completed and after a bite to eat our Council team made their way into the Chamber and the rest of us upstairs and into the public gallery.

Last night saw relatives of those people murdered by the British Army during the Ballymurphy Massacre gathered in the gallery also. They were seeking permission from the Council to host the exhibition telling the story of the Massacre and subsequently their loss and the impact on their lives, to be displayed for a period in their City Hall.

A modest and very human request.

Briege Voyle, whose mother was murdered by the British Army during the Massacre, made a very heartfelt appeal to the Council to allow the use of the City Hall for their story to be told. She was joined by Alan McBride, who lost his wife in the Shankill Bomb. Alan also appealed to the Council to allow the space to be used for the families exhibition which in itself consists of 12 boards, each one telling the story of those eleven people gunned down by the British Parachute Regiment and a twelfth giving information on the Massacre itself.

Following the presentation from Briege and Alan it was clear that ‘good old fashioned’ City Hall bigotry was about to kick into gear.

That bigotry wasn’t as overt as it has been historically and strangely on this occasion it wasn’t the young DUP firebrands who got up to stall a decision on this matter but the so-called ‘middle of the road’ Alliance Party.

In fact, it was my own Councillor, Máire Hendron, who took to her feet seeking a deferral on a decision, citing ‘good relations’ and that the matter be brought back to committee.

I can say without fear of contradiction that when she took to her feet to delay this most basic of requests she certainly wasn’t representing the community in the Short Strand, an area that she allegedly represents and one which knows all to well the brutality of the British Army.

A number of weeks ago the Alliance Party issued a somewhat irrational statement claiming that the new Sinn Féin Councillors co-opted into City Hall would give them;

“serious concerns that the genuine progress made at Belfast City Council in the last number of years could be put in jeopardy by this strategy, as there has been a significant amount of consensus in recent times. I sincerely hope the stability that we have had at the Council is not affected by this move."

They have some cheek given their shameful actions last night.

I spoke with some of the families after this heartbreaking decision was passed. The Families had met with the Alliance Party beforehand and at no point did they inform them that they would seek a deferral. The Alliance came out of the Chamber to tell the families that Unionist Councillors had approached them before the Council meeting expressing concern about the exhibition.

Not only does this highlight the sheer cowardice of the Alliance party to stand by victims of the British Army but it also highlights a sheer unwillingness on their part to stand up to their fellow Unionist parties at City Hall.

Lets be honest, just because the Unionist Councillors asked for a deferral on this issue didn’t mean the Alliance had to give them one!

The families were clearly heartbroken, once again they are being denied the space to tell their story.

As always though they left City Hall as determined and as resolute as ever.

Ironically, despite the excuses from the Alliance and the allegations from Unionist Councillors, the families had sought a meeting with the other parties well in advance; but their requests were simply ignored.

What a pity that some of our civic leaders would be so willing to apply further hurt and trauma onto victims of the conflict.

Despite the inevitable heave-ho of City Hall politics I want to make it clear that the actions of the Councillor for Pottinger certainly weren’t done in my name.

The campaign for the Truth and Justice for the victims of the Ballymurphy/Springhill Massacre goes on.

Fáilte Romhat

2010-11-29T16:31:00.002Z

Further details about this important seminar.

Hope to see you there to join us in discussing this issue of global importance! Make sure you RSVP to the address above.

Bígí Linn!!

History Makers

2010-11-28T17:30:00.001Z

Election of Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty as TD for Donegal South-West

Blog report from Gerry Adams on the historic event over on Léargas

Stop Climate Chaos

2010-11-24T10:45:00.004Z

Sinn Féin MLA for south Belfast Alex Maskey will host a Seminar on global climate talks with MEP for the Six Counties Bairbre de Brún, James Orr from Friends of the Earth and Gary McFarlane from Stop Climate Chaos.

The Seminar will take place in the Wellington Park Hotel in Belfast City Centre on the 3rd December with registration between 11:00am-11:30am.

The event follows on from last years successful discussion prior to Bairbre’s participation in the Copenhagen Talks.

The theme of this years discussion is “United Nations Climate Talks – Prospects for Cancun and Beyond”.

Those wishing to take part are asked to RSVP Conor Keenan at Alex’s office on conor.keenan@sinn-fein.ie or on 02890243194

Margaret Ritchie and the Poppy

2010-11-15T14:25:00.005Z

Much has been made of the SDLP Leader Margaret Ritchie’s decision to wear a poppy at a commemoration to British Soldiers yesterday. Three out of four of my great grandfathers fought in the First World War, two of them were injured, all of them went in order to feed their families. This aspect of our family history was never hidden, it was never denied but it was never lauded either; mostly due to the fact that the various grandfathers themselves knew well the dirty, futile war they were forced to take part in given the economic conditions in Ireland at that time and the false promises made by the British Government. I have no intention of wearing a poppy. My father’s paternal Grandfather Jack wore a poppy every year, eventually he made the decision himself that he could no longer wear it given the evident political and sectarian abuse of that emblem during the recent phase of conflict here in Ireland. My mother’s paternal Grandfather was a radio operator during WW1 – his son, my Grandfather, went on to become a Volunteer in the IRA. So many of us throughout the Island have a family history similar to this; mostly due to the fact that Britain colonised our country. Its important to note that my mother’s paternal Grandmother was from a long line of Republicans; she hid bonds to pay for a speaking tour by O’Donnavan Rossa by sowing them under the carpet in what would eventually become my mothers family home in 35 Short Strand. I don’t deny the fact that I have great grandparents who fought in WW1, if I am honest I don’t laud it either. I acknowledge that these men, working class, fathers, husbands, were discriminated out of work in the vast industrial sectors that surrounded their homes in east Belfast and went to fight for the British Army, the reasons for this are multi faceted. Many others have a different analysis of this and given the fact that I live and represent people in east Belfast I know well that for them they have a different perspective. I think they appreciate a more honest approach this issue more so than tokenistic photo-ops. During the Second World War my maternal Grandparents had begun the process of throwing off the shackles of hunger, false promises and lies force fed to Irish people in order to try and trick them into fighting another war on Britain’s behalf. Like many they took part in the Struggle for Irish Freedom. My Grandfather Jim was interned in various jails for his republican activities and his wife to be, Mary, was already an active member of Cumann na mBan. During his tenure as Mayor of Belfast I with other Belfast republican activists joined Tom Hartley in laying a laurel wreath at the City Hall. For me this was difficult at a personal level but in a political sense I was prepared to acknowledge and more importantly remember the real reasons why so many men had to go to war. The story of the British Army is not one of glory. That is why I am genuinely intrigued as to why the SDLP Leader Margaret Ritchie thought it would benefit her to take part in a British Army Remembrance Service and to wear the poppy which has become so divisive here over a long number of years. As a symbol it is now even being resisted in England given the pressure people feel under to wear one. I can understand and appreciate the loss felt by families of British soldiers at a personal level and they have every right to remember their loved ones, that is understandable. However I am genuinely intrigued to know what Margaret Ritchie will think, on a human level, the next time she bumps into the Ballymurphy or Bloody Sunday Families on her travels? What if she had of met one yesterday with her poppy in her lapel? What would she have said? For my part I am prepared to discuss this aspect of Irish History with all sectors, I think it is an aspect that needs continued discussion in order to break through the revisionist propaganda. However I have no desire to celebrate the British Army’s roles in countless military escapades across the world, I have no desire to financially contribute to them through the purchasing of a poppy. I am conscious always of those people murdered by the British Army here in Ireland over countless generations, I have no desire to create the false impression that there was ever anything good or beneficial about the role of the British Army here in Ireland, there was not and there is not. Sadly for their families the British Government are still more than willing to send countless men and women to death in unwinnable wars many miles away. So that is why in a very serious way I think Margaret Ritchie has made a blunder. In her PR driven desire to appear ‘progressive’ she will no doubt have isolated those countless people, many in her own constituency, who were harassed, beaten, intimidated and imprisoned by the British Army, each one of them victims. I think most people, from both communities here will see this for what it is. I await to see how Margaret will remember those men and women who fought and died in pursuit of Irish Freedom come next Easter.

Speaking in East Belfast & listening in Ravenhill

2010-11-11T12:21:00.006Z

Last night's panel at East Belfast Speaks Out - Thanks to Alan in Belfast for the Photo

Last night I joined deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness at the second annual ‘East Belfast Speaks Out’ – I blogged on last years event here.

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to stay at last nights event as I had to shoot across town to a meeting between residents and Club Representatives in Ravenhill Rugby Ground.

Back to East Belfast though, the event was really well attended in comparison to last year and from looking around the hall it was clear there was a large amount of young people in attendance. It is good that east Belfast now has the opportunity to engage directly with elected representatives in such an open and positive way.

Long may it continue!

Over at Ravenhill I joined Alex Maskey MLA in speaking with some of the local residents who live next to the stadium as well as Club Officials regarding plans for development at the site.
No one wants to be negative but some residents don’t support all aspects of the development plans. Im sure club officials will try to accommodate on outstanding issues. Both Alex and I hope these issues can be resolved and we will follow up with club reps shortly.

Going forward

2010-11-10T14:45:00.004Z

Signing the Sinn Féin candidate pledge following my selection as candidate for east Belfast

On Tuesday night I, along with other Sinn Féin activists from the Martin / Treacy Cumann, gathered in the Short Strand Community Centre for the party selection convention to choose the candidate in east Belfast for the upcoming elections.

The activist base gathered selected me to stand for Sinn Féin in east Belfast at both the Council and Assembly elections next year.

I am very grateful to them for placing their trust and confidence in me and I look forward to the challenges ahead, not least retaking the Sinn Féin Council seat for Pottinger.

My nomination will now go the Ard Chomhairle for ratification at the weekend.

Tuesday morning saw Alex Maskey , Conor Murphy and Gerry Adams host a breakfast briefing for business figures from across the city. Alex, Conor and Gerry all took the opportunity to give them a rundown on our economic proposal paper, “There is a Better Way” as well as the work that Sinn Féin have been leading in the south of the city. To the fore of this has been Alex’s central role in attempting to resolve the outstanding problems in the Holyland area; to the mammoth work he has put in alongside Conor Murphy in projects such as traffic calming, residents parking schemes, flood prevention, the TUNNELS project in the Market area, meeting with traders on the Lisburn Road, unprecedented and unmatched engagement in working class loyalist areas like the Village and Donegal Pass, and the list goes on.

After an address from Gerry Adams there was suseful and I think positive question and answers discussion with the business people and the party leadership. I have no doubt this will be the first in a series of engagements with the business and SME sector as we move further on the road to trying to steer us all out of the current economic recession.

On Tuesday night activists from the Strand took to the streets to distribute the latest Sinn Féin bulletin for the area. I hope to have it online soon so you can all get a look.

Tonight I intend on heading to ‘East Belfast Speaks Out’ along with the Sinn Féin panellist for the event; I blogged on the same event last year.

I look forward to an interesting debate.

Labharfaidh muid gan mhoil!

Táim ar ais

2010-11-08T14:51:00.007Z

With the girls from the Strand who put on a fantastic show during the Diwali celebrations in the Short Strand Community Centre

I haven’t blogged in a while so apologies for that.

I intend to come back to the blog on a more regular basis once again.

Last week saw the Indian community celebrate the Diwali festival. Similar to the our own Celtic celebration of Samhain it was great to see so many at the Short Strand Community Centre last week taking part in the celebrations. There was a great mix of music, craic, food and dance, well done to everyone involved in making it such a success.

Regular readers of the blog will know how important the campaign for the closure, demolition and replacement with the social homes at Mountpottinger Barracks has been to the community in the Strand; thankfully work is currently underway inside the base to dismantle it and we will no doubt see real physical progress in the coming weeks. We must now ensure we keep the pressure on the DSD Minister to ensure the site is developed with Social, Family housing.

At the top of the Mount we succeeded in getting the Housing Executive to remove a number of unwanted (and many would say unnecessary)flowerbeds. Residents were concerned that the flowerbeds were simply being used a dumping spot and were becoming increasingly unsightly to look out their living room windows at. Haven spoken with residents along there, they are glad this work has taken place.

With Mountpottinger Road residents Bernie, Hugh and May during the work to remove the unwanted flowerbeds at the front of their homes

A number of us recently went to planning service objecting to a planning application for 32 apartments on a vacant site beside the shops at the opposite end of the Mountpottinger Road. You can read more on that issue here

Tonight Sinn Féin in east Belfast will hold their selection convention to choose who will go forward for the party in the upcoming elections. I will be sure to keep you all up to speed on that!

Beirigí Bua!

PS: And I forgot to tell you that after a long piece of work the NIE have completed work to remove the redundant electric substation at Strand Close. The facility has been removed after concerns that given its inactivity, it because used for graffitti and antisocial activity. The Short Strand Partnership are working with local residents in the hope that they can come up with ideas around what to do with the small, vacant piece of land. One idea has been to locate a piece of community art on the site to brighten the area.

Say NO to Tory Cuts!

2010-09-28T15:08:00.002+01:00

Myself and Gerry Adams at the launch of the party's Billboard Campaign "Say NO to Tory Cuts" at the Assembly earlier today.

Gerry and other Sinn Féin leaders met with a delegation from the Irish Congress of trade Unions before the launch and has commented extensively on the economic situation here

Cuir in aghaidh Gearrthacha na dTóraithe!

O’Leary attempts at blackmail will only hurt workers

2010-08-31T14:18:00.001+01:00

PRESS RELEASE ISSUED EARLIER TODAY:

Sinn Féin representative for east Belfast Niall Ó Donnghaile has slammed the move by Ryanair to pull their services from Belfast City Airport.

Speaking this afternoon he said;

“This is nothing more than the typical type of behaviour most people will have come to expect from Michael O’Leary of Ryanair.It appears that the decision to pull their services from the City Airport is down to the public inquiry due to take place into the proposed runway extension; it would seem that because Ryanair haven’t gotten their own way, they are punishing workers, the Belfast economy as well as current customers.

Sinn Féin’s position on the proposed runway extension has been clear for some time, an inquiry is needed so that all arguments for and against the extension could be articulated, not least the very real health and environmental concerns of the many thousands of residents across Belfast and north Down who are affected by traffic in and out of the airport.

While I’m sure many residents will not be mourning the apparent loss of Ryanair, I think this move by Michael O’Leary is an extremely retrograde step and will only punish Ryanair workers as well as the local economy and air travel commuters.” CRÍOCH

An Dún ABÚ!

2010-08-31T14:14:00.004+01:00

Exciting times ahead for Contae an Dún!!

What can I say about Sunday’s game other than the last few minutes almost brought on heart failure for half of Croke Park!

Excitement is building ahead of Down’s All-Ireland Final clash with Cork on the 19th of September. Over these past three years a group of supporters from the Short Strand in County Down have travelled near and far in support of the Mournemen – on occasion we have had reasons to be downhearted others to be upbeat and excited, but none moreso than in Croke Park last Sunday!

A Down flag now resides on every lamppost along the Mountpottinger Road, more and more homes are flying the county colours with pride, cars heading in and out of the district are adorned with a miniature Down Flag. It’s a good time to be a supporter and a good time to follow An Dún!

I’m looking forward to the 19th and hopefully a personal return to GAA HQ

I believe we can do it, I believe the skill, the passion, the commitment and determination in is this current senior squad to see Sam brought back to County Down after too long a period away!

Go n-eirí an t-ádh leis na buachaillí ó chontae an Dún!

PS – I hope to get some photos of the flags in the Strand up soon

Beir Bua!!!

An Poc ar an Chnoc 2010

2010-08-10T13:53:00.008+01:00

"I sat for awhile by the gap in the wall

Found a rusty tin can and an old hurling ball..."

Saturday was just one of those days; a day you are enjoying so much you fail to recognise the importance of it until afterwards.

I said to Richard McAuley early on Saturday morning,

“RG, did you ever think you’d see the day when our flags would be flying at Stormont?”

His answer was simple but significant,

“Yes”, he said. And he is right!

Fair play to Gerry A and the organisers of the event, it was for a good cause and was enjoyed by the hundreds of people, idir óg agus aosta, who came to take part.

Teams from across Belfast took part in the under-10 hurling blitz on the front lawns of Stormont, there was an open Poc competition held adjacent to Carson’s statue which saw serious hurlers, amateurs, tourists, kids and even a peeler take part in it!

Mothers and fathers came to watch their children take part, many had brought along their younger brothers and sisters to see their siblings play in the first ever Poc ar an Chnoc.

And of course there were those who had read about the event in the media and were curious to see this historic first. Some just came to avail of the atmosphere, families gathering with sandwiches and bunógaí, juice and sweets, kicking a ball about the place; together on a Saturday in summer.

Isn’t that what the whole day was about?

Later in the afternoon the celebrity Poc drew the attention of those assembled, eager to see who would win. MPs, MLAs, Ministers, a TD, an MEP, Boxing Champions, TV Presenters, Handball Champions, all gathered in the hope that they would beat Gerry Adams; which of course most of them did!

Finally the senior men and women’s Poc Fada took place throughout the estate with competitors from across Ireland taking part. Hurling and Camogie greats, wearing their specially designed ‘Poc ar an Chnoc’ kits from O’Neills, were accompanied by two of the young gaels from teams who had taken part in the under-10 blitz that morning, set about trying to win this inaugural competition. My money was on Down man Graham Clarke who had won Poc Fada na hÉireann the previous week in the Cooley mountains. I was proved correct when he came first in the men’s competition, and Gráinne Connolly won the women’s.

The participants and winners were presented with their trophies on the front steps of Stormont, under the shadow of the Trinity hurler himself.

It was a good day, a groundbreaking day, a day when Gaels from across Ireland showed that there is nowhere we can’t go, there are no places now where an expression of our rich culture cannot be displayed and more importantly where we can’t come together for a fun day and a bit of craic.

Bhí lá den scoth again uilig agus tá neart moladh tuilte acu suid uilig a d’eagraigh na himeachtaí, maith sibh féin!

The organisers deserve a big go raibh maith agat for the hard work and effort they put in to making the event such a success; I have no doubt that over the coming years Poc ar an Chnoc will only get bigger and better!

Discussing environmental improvements with HE in Short Strand

2010-07-28T16:48:00.003+01:00

East Belfast Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile today went on a walk-about in the Short Strand area with staff from the Housing Executive to discuss environmental improvements in the area. He was joined by local resident and Sinn Féin activist Hugh McComb. They met with Alice Mills (Assistant District Manager East Belfast) and Malachi Brennan (Grounds Maintenance Manager) to discuss residents concerns about the planters on the Mountpottinger Road and the alleyways in Clandeyboy Gardens.

Our photo shows me with Hugh and Alice outside the homes affected by the planters on the Mount - Looking forward to continuing to work with Alice and Malachi as well as the residents to get a satisfactory conclusion to these issues.

Understand The Past

2010-07-02T16:59:00.018+01:00

“Understand the past......
.......and build a better future”

Over the years we have always been able to rely on Danny D to encapsulate what we as a community are trying to say. From the darkest days of struggle through to the onset of peace and the inevitability of unity, Danny Devenny has given our communities a voice where others chose to censor us, to discredit us and attempt to criminalise us.

Danny’s latest work on the Mount depicts just what we as a community are about and what we wanted to achieve from the series of anniversary events held to mark 40 years since the Battle of Saint Matthews.

Things began last Wednesday with the launch of a new DVD/CD pack telling the story of what happened that fateful night 40 years ago. Many of those featured on the DVD sat amongst the mixed crowd of teenagers and pensioners, gathered upstairs in St Matthews Club.

St Matt’s was packed for the event and the DVD sold like hotcakes, such was interest amongst young people to hear this important story, but also amongst our older residents who were taken aback by the vivid reflections of that night and the incredible footage of our community used in the documentary.

Thanks to Big Bob who came over to launch the DVD and a big go raibh maith agat to Michelle, Seán and all those involved in making this first class documentary a reality. Well worth watching!

Next up, and after months of rehearsals, it was the opportunity for the many local young people involved with the play “The Battle of Saint Matthews” to get up and show us all the hard work they had put in.

Written by Kieran Magee, the play depicts the experience of various people living in the area on the night, when intoxicated bandsmen and shipyard workers set about trying to burn it to the ground. The play depicted the events throughout the city in the run up to the battle; it showed us the intention of loyalists to carry out what they had in Bombay St the year previous only on this occasion in the streets of this Parish. It showed us the IRA and local CDL putting in place the effective defence of this community. It also showed how this event impacted on young people in the area as well as the older people, who as they said in the course of the play, had “seen it all before”.

It also showed us the sacrifices made by those who took part in defending the Chapel and the people.

The play ran for 3 nights, Thursday, Friday and Saturday and every night was a roaring success, with the Parochial Hall filled to capacity. Fair play to all those involved, whose hard work and effort was the talk of the district. I look forward to seeing the play again in the summer during the local Féile!!

Saturday saw the launch of Danny’s new mural; I was very honoured and privileged to have been asked to chair this event. Danny is a long time family friend of ours and a man we have enormous respect and admiration for.

Danny’s work is known right across the world and is becoming increasingly in demand and rightfully so! Danny was never a man of art who lost his heart and we as a community are lucky to have him. Like I said previously, his message, simple as it was, depicted the whole point of what we as a community are about and what were very genuinely trying to achieve with the anniversary events and the opening of An Tine Bheo Memorial.

Sunday was the culmination of events.

Early on I ventured up to the Club for a private presentation to the families of our Patriot Dead and those named on the Roll of Remembrance. The families received a replica of the monument in the heart of the memorial garden and the families of the dead Volunteers also received a canvass portrait, again by Danny, the same as the faces now featured in the memorial garden itself.

The emotion on Sunday morning was palpable; this was a morning for honouring those who gave all in defence of our area and in pursuit of Irish freedom and independence.

Following a few tears being shed and warm exchanges between old friends and comrades as well as some lovely food put on by Catherine and Co, it was time to gather at the newly erected plaque just outside, at the side of St Matthews Club itself. The plaque honours three men from the Parish who played pivotal roles alongside the Republican Movement in the defence of the Parish, not just on that fateful night but throughout many, many years. Jimmy George, Henry McIlhone and Bobby Jennings now have a fitting tribute to them and all those citizens in the district that rose in defiance of the failed Orange State and its rampaging, sectarian gangs. It was another emotional event in what would be a sad but wonderful day.

Shortly afterwards, after meeting many friends and neighbours in the assembled crowd, I welcomed Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams to the Strand; he was the main speaker at the parade to open An Tine Bheo Memorial.

By this stage a huge crowd had gathered on the Mountpottinger Road to take part in the parade, many residents, people who had left the area, friends and relations lined the route, loudly applauding the Colour Party emerging from Mountforde and those relatives of our Patriot Dead that fell in behind it, clutching the now treasured portraits of their loved ones as well as a single lily.
Luckily the weather was with us and with the exception of a very brief burst of rain we had a beautiful day!

We made our way around the area, through the new courts and gardens to the old terraced streets that many of those we were gathered to remember had once walked along, played in and stood in defence of. Faces along the way were solemn but resolute, “we understand our past” they seemed to say “but we are building a better future!”

As we gathered at the monument and I made my way up onto the stage, the full effect of just how many people were there became clear. I had never seen so many people at a parade in this area, it was fantastic!

We went through the normal procedure for these events, Cáitlín read the local roll of honour and remembrance to absolute silence amongst those assembled, Zak played a lament while the Colour Party lowered their flags. This was a point where I could see minds drifting back through many years with quite a few tears being wiped away but also the odd cheeky grin in remembering the qualities of their brothers, their sisters, their mates, their comrades.

Our first speaker was well known local Republican activist and ex-POW Huggy McComb. I have known Huggy all my life (or should I say Huggy has known me all my life!!) and his words on Sunday afternoon summed up the feelings for many people involved with this project but also the unbowed and unbroken Republican family gathered at the side of An Tine Bheo. He did us, and the faces looking on from the memorial, very proud indeed.

We moved to the formal opening of the Garden, I was really honoured to introduce Betty Dorian, widow of Óglach Rab Dorrian to do the honours. So many people have played a part in making the monument a reality but there was no hesitation, either amongst the families or the committee, when it came to putting Betty’s name forward as the one to do this. She has worked tirelessly since the idea of this garden came into being. Fair play Betty!

Then it was Gerry’s turn; he spoke of the history of our Parish and the hurt inflicted upon it, he spoke of the unrelenting pride in our Patriot Dead and in their families, he spoke of his acknowledgement at the hurt caused by Republicans but he focused heavily on that recurring theme of the events; “understand the past, build a better future”.

The rest of the day was passed over to enjoying this momentous day together as a community,old friends, comrades, neighbours and relations to get together and remember the bad and good times. It was a chance for younger people, myself including, to hear about the men and women we honoured that day, to remember that they were ordinary Ballymacarrett people, just like us, but who in extraordinary times have gave all in pursuit of our Freedom.

It is important we always remember them with pride.

I could write forever about that day, for our community it was a hell of a long time coming and now we have a permanent, beautiful monument to our Patriot Dead. The work goes on though, to ensure we build the only worthy one to them and that is an Irish, Socialist Republic.

Tá a lán obair os ár gcomhair ach de réir imeachtaí De Domhnaigh agus roimhe tá mé cinnte go bhfuil an talann, and abáltach agus an inporóid againn an Aisling sin a bhaint amach!

Thanks again to everyone who played a part in any of the events, who gave up their time, assistance, patience, expertise and skills. The day belonged to all of us and An Tine Bheo, “The Living Flame” reminds us what we need to work towards.

Maith sibh agus Beirigí Bua!!

PS: I hope to upload more photos over the coming days..............

Conor Murphy on site visit to Short Strand

2010-06-23T16:15:00.004+01:00

Today, Regional Development Minister Conor Murphy MP came on a site visit to the Short Strand area; he was joined by a number of departmental officials.

Conor met with myself, Bernie McCrory from the Short Stand Community Forum and Patrick Devlin, Chair of St Matthews Housing Association.

We went on a walkabout with management of the Translink Bus depot in the area. We held discussions inside about the future of the site and how it fits into the overall strategic plan for this part of the city and in particular the Short Strand community.

From there we looked at a number of problem spots for traffic flow and congestion and raised our concerns about the sheer amount of heavy duty vehicles that are using the Mountpottinger Road as a rat-run.

After our walkabout we headed into St Matthews Housing Association's office in Harper Street. Under the shadow of the monstrosity that is Mountpottinger Barracks we were able to inform Conor about our plans for developing the site for social and family homes.

At our discussion we were able to talk more about some of the traffic and pedestrian issues in the Strand. We also found out from the Roads Service officials where exactly the traffic calming for Madrid, Bryson and Edgar Streets are at; they will be contacting residents there in the next week or so to inform them of where things stand.

Following Conor's engagement we took him round to see the now completed 'An Tine Bheo memorial garden. Like most people who come to see it he was understandably impressed.
Here's some pics

Press Release issued today

2010-06-22T18:34:00.001+01:00

Ó Donnghaile welcomes drugs seizure

Sinn Féin’s Pottinger Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has welcomed news that the PSNI have seized and removed numerous cannabis plants following searches at two properties in the Short Strand today.Speaking this evening Mr Ó Donnghaile said;

“There is no place for drugs polluting this community.

Deep concerns about drug abuse and availability are issues that Sinn Féin and community workers in the area have been raising with the PSNI and other agencies for a considerable period of time now.Any move to take drugs off our streets and away from potentially polluting our community must be welcomed.

There has to be a strategic approach to tackling the issue of drugs in our communities that involves all the key stakeholders.The people of the Short Strand will continue to reject those who would attempt to push drugs and all the dangers that flow from that onto our people.” CRÍOCH

No more Bloody Sundays!

2010-06-22T14:51:00.006+01:00

People in Palestine mark the victory of the Bloody Sunday Families and Survivors after the Saville Report rightfully deemed them innocent of any of the accusations made against them in the past.

Our thoughts should be with the people of Palestine who continually face fierce oppression and hostility as well as the continued blockade by Israel.

For them, everyday is becoming and increasingly Bloody day.

An Tine Bheo

2010-06-20T16:45:00.005+01:00

“The Living Flame”

The idea to erect a permanent and fitting monument to the Patriot Dead from the Short Strand / Ballymacarrett has been doing the rounds for a long number of years now. From the memorial plaque placed outside the old Sinn Féin Centre in Beechfield Street, to the plaque put up beside the memorial mural on the Mountpottinger Road, Republicans from this area have always had a desire to see the people on the local Roll of Honour recognised with a permanent and fitting memorial.

A number of year’s back, despite ideas having been around for a lot longer, a group of Republican activists in the area finally decided it was time to put the plans into action. They talked, mostly around my father’s kitchen table, for weeks about how best to progress this, how they would acquire the land, raise the funds etc. In the end a committee was formed which was made up of local republicans, ex-POWs, relatives of our Patriot Dead and local people with an interest in seeing the monument erected.

With help from this community and beyond the committee has worked tirelessly to ensure that the monument would be built and that it would be appropriate to those names that would appear upon it. From running functions, to selling ballots, sweeps and t-shirts, the committee have excelled in their efforts and anyone who has been able to see An Tine Bheo Memorial Garden take shape over recent weeks will have no option but to commend their endeavours. I have been honoured and privileged to have been able to play, like many in this community, my small part in helping to see this vision become a reality. It’s long overdue but will soon become a reality. A big comhghairdeas to the committee and everyone who gave their time, money and expertise to see An Tine Bheo built!

Republicans from across the city and beyond will gather for the opening of An Tine Bheo next Sunday. Fittingly the date is the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Saint Matthews.

The 27th of June 1970 has earned its place in Republican history and indeed the history of this statelet. On that bright evening 40 years ago, after the pogroms of 1969, the people of this Parish decided they wouldn’t suffer the same fate as other vulnerable communities across the north had. With Loyalist marches taking place across the city throughout that day and attacks on areas in the north and west of the City predictably occurring, the people in this Parish (as they had done so many times before down through the generations) battened down the hatches prepared themselves for the inevitable onslaught. The people, alongside the Irish Republican Army, took to the streets in defence of the community and to hold back the descending hoards of Loyalist attackers, determined to see this area, and in particular St Matthews Chapel (a perceived ‘blight’ right in the heart of Unionist east Belfast) burnt to the ground, much in the same way that they had done with Bombay and surrounding Streets the previous year.

It is thanks to the people who defied them that I am able to sit at home and write this blog today.

The Battle of Saint Matthews was a turning point for the nationalist people of the north; it acted as a catalyst in defiance of the failed Orange State. No longer would intoxicated hoards of shipyard workers or loyalist bandsmen be allowed to attack areas such as ours en-mass, with the willing assistance of the RUC and British Army. Republicans look to that night and the men and women, boys and girls, who took part in it as a symbol of resistance and of progression.

Next week will see a number of events staged to coincide with the anniversary and the opening of An Tine Bheo. Proceedings begin on Wednesday 23rd with the launch of a new DVD/CD pack containing interviews with many of the people who were on the streets that historic night in defence of the community. On Thursday 24th, Friday 26th and Saturday the 27th young actors, mostly made up of local people, will stage a play depicting events as they occurred. This is certainly one not to be missed! On Saturday the 27th I have the honour of launching a new mural by renowned artist and fellow Short Strand man Danny Devenny.

Events culminate on the Sunday with the unveiling of a new plaque outside Saint Matthews Club and the parade around the area to the new memorial garden, An Tine Bheo later in the afternoon. Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams is the main speaker at the unveiling.

Preparations for all of the events have been well underway for some time now, from the area was leafleted, letters put into the papers and posters put up around the area calling for people interested to join the committee staging these events, a small group of us have been ploughing ahead with the fitting events to mark a major and significant date and event for us as Republicans.

In particular a word of credit to the young people, most of them from the area, who are taking part in the play; they have been rehearsing for weeks now and it is a big ask to get up and stage a play in this area about such an emotive and significant event, which many people still have vivid memories of. Maith sibh uilig!

So I look forward to seeing you all next week, I hope we get a sunny day and I hope these modest events rightfully recognise and acknowledge the significance of the anniversary of the Battle of Saint Matthews and the role that the local Volunteers and those named on the Roll of Remembrance, played in pursuit of Irish Freedom and Independence.

Tá fáilte roimh chách and I know we will rightfully remember our Patriot Dead in a fitting and Republican manner.

An Phoblacht Abú!

One word..............

2010-06-15T17:09:00.008+01:00

......innocent

Constituency update

2010-06-01T17:55:00.001+01:00

Good news regarding the dismantling of Mountpottinger Barracks.

The decrepit, dilapidated and redundant base has been closed for some months now but following a meeting with PSNI Chief Superintendant in East Belfast Alan McCrum, we now know that the dismantling of the base is scheduled for the end of August, beginning of September this year.

The news comes after I wrote to new DSD Minister Alex Attwood last week, urging him to now work towards the immediate acquirement of the vacant land for the development of social, family homes. I have blogged numerous times about Mountpottinger and all that it represents as well as the very practical reasons why it should go.

The reality of the situation is that Mountpottinger is costing over £100,000 every year; it is now my hope that the vast amount of money that will be saved as a result of the dismantling of this site can be redirected to tackling the scourge of drugs and anti-social behaviour, as well as other issues, in this part of east Belfast. I certainly commit myself to working with the PSNI and others to ensure that happens.

Also this week, we received news that Belfast City Council’s Community Safety Wardens will be entering this part of inner east Belfast at the beginning of June. The scheme will run for 3 months, a particularly apt time given our experience on the ground of having to deal with anti-social activity over the summer months.

I have further meetings arranged on this issue ahead of the scheme being rolled out.

As well as this, once again many residents affected by the anti social activity in the area have contacted me outlining their real need for alley-gating in various parts of the Short Strand. This is an issue I have lobbied on numerous times in the past, thus far the City Council have yet to heed the pleas of residents in streets like Beechfield Street or Madrid Street who are nightly effected by problems in the entries at the back of their homes. I have arranged further meetings with the Council on this matter (including a walkabout to the streets concerned) and remain positive that we can secure the much needed gates for the areas most affected.

I have been in touch with NIE about the future of the now redundant electric substation at Strand Close. They need to urgently secure the station and move towards demolishing it as soon as possible.

Sinn Féin are also opposing the planned development of 31 high-rise apartments on a small piece of land on the Mountpottinger Road.

You can keep up to date with all these issues here.

We’re also looking forward to meeting with Minister for Regional Development Conor Murphy who will be visiting the Strand very shortly. Conor is due to join us on a site visit to the Translink Bus Depot in the area to discuss the future of this site as well as meeting various community groups and reps to discuss issues around traffic calming and an important issue around the need for a pedestrian crossing at the bottom of the Newtonards Road.

Last week also saw the opening of 27 new apartments on the Short Strand. The units at Pottinger’s Quay were developed by Clanmil Housing Association but took a lot of work from many quarters, including Sinn Féin, the Short Strand Partnership, St Matthews Housing Association and others to actually see the much needed social housing realised! Its clear that the apartments themselves are first class and worthy of their riverside location, it is also good that families have been able to move in and set up home. Space on the ground floor will also developed into a child day care facility by the Short Strand Partnership Board so there remains exciting times ahead for this site.

Plans for marking the anniversary of the Battle of Saint Matthews are well underway and there’s a wonderful buzz around the area. An Tine Bheo memorial project is taking shape and is a the subject of many a conversation throughout the community. No doubt I will blog more on these issues closer to the time and certainly afterwards.

I joined hundreds of other Béal Feirste citizens at the City Hall yesterday to highlight our disgust at the brutal murder of activists bringing aid to Gaza by the Israeli state. The anger and sadness amongst the gathered crowd was palpable and the incident once again brings home the horror that is life for the besieged Palestinian people. Sinn Féin MLA’s secured a discussion about this issue under ‘matters of the day’ at the Assembly this morning. My thoughts are with them all and I hope those taking part in the aid Flotilla are able to safely break the illegal Israel siege and bring the much needed aid to the people of Gaza. It is hard not to despair and fear the worst at this time given the track record of oppression by the Israeli State. Following the last bombardment against Gaza Sinn Féin activists in the Short Strand took to the streets on what was a horrible, cold and wet night to raise funds for Medical Aid for Palestine; doing things like attending rallies, vigils, protests or raising money doesn't feel like enough.

STAD AND SLAD – SAOR AN PHÁILISTÍN!

And here it is............

2010-05-29T13:17:00.001+01:00

As much as I am not surprised by anything this group of people (SDLP elected representatives) will do, I must admit that even for me this is difficult to watch.

Náire.

a so called 'Republican' party

2010-05-19T11:25:00.005+01:00

So the SDLP are back in London this week swearing an oath of allegiance to the English Queen.

Will be interesting to see how they perform in this new term of the Brit Parliament and will it differ from their abysmal record during the last few terms.

The people, as always, are watching and will be looking to see just what exactly the SDLP can 'deliver' particularly given the fact they spent so much time lauding the importance of that particular institution during the recent election campaign.

UPDATE:

Just in case you are interested, here is what the SDLP MP's will be declaring when they visit Westminster next week:

"I...do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors, according to law".

Citizens demand their right to work!

2010-05-19T11:07:00.002+01:00

Sinn Féin Senator Pearse Doherty speaks passionately at yesterday's protest outside Leinster House where citizens gathered to highlight their Right to Work!

update

2010-05-11T14:09:00.002+01:00

Seeing how I wasn't blogging as much over the election campaign I feel compelled to let you all know what the latest is and how things are going.

Friday will see the AGM of the Short Strand Partnership Board, lots to discuss, resolve and most importantly lots of important matters to continue working on!

The next few weeks will also see the opening of Arás Mhic Airt (Mac Airt House) the extension to Arás Seán Uí Mháirtín (Sean Martin House) at the bottom of Beechfield Street in the Strand. These much needed housing units, which are geared towards the over 55's in order to free up any multiple room housing they currently occupy, are being allocated to those most in need as we speak. Fair play to St Matthews Housing Association for all the important work they are involved with.

Plans are well ahead for our weekend of events to mark the 40th anniversary of the Battle of St Matthews at the end of June. Open auditions were held for those wanting to take part in a dramatic adaptation of that famous night, with over 40 budding actors in attendance. I can't wait to see how it transfers onto the stage and I am greatly excited about the programme of events for what will no doubt be a momentous weekend!

I have also finalised with Conor Murphy's office, plans for him to visit the Short Strand at the beginning of next month. We have much to discuss. For some time now Sinn Féin, alongside the local community, have been lobbying a number of agencies on the future sustainability of the Translink Bus Depot in the district; not only are there major concerns around air pollution and health implications but also about the sheer size of this depot and how it impedes any future development (which is much needed) of social and community amenities. Conor will meet myself and other local community groups and representatives to discuss this matter as well as number of other issues of concern, most notably around traffic problems, in the area.

We are still in the early stages of our exciting plans for transforming 'The Green' at the top of the Mountpottinger Road into something much more suitable and exciting for the local communities. I have been meeting several agencies, including the deputy First Minister's Office, the Housing Executive as well as some of our Councillors at City Hall on this matter and I have meetings penciled in with other groups for over the next few weeks. I'll keep you all updated on this much needed and important project.

The summer will also see the begining of the dismantling of Mountpottinger Barracks. We will once again be calling for a meeting with DSD Minister Margaret Ritchie seeking her department to acquire this land urgently to develop the much needed and much sought after social, family housing.

So don't let anyone tell you because the election is over things calm down, there's a lot of work ahead and that's a good thing!!

ádh mór!!

N

Victory for Michelle

2010-05-11T14:06:00.001+01:00

sin é for now

2010-05-10T16:55:00.001+01:00

All change in east Belfast

So the Westminster election is over. The votes have been cast and the seats have been won.

Sinn Féin had a tremendous election, for the second time in a row, emerging as the largest party in the Six Counties. In Fermanagh and south Tyrone comrades from across Ireland put in mammoth work to ensure that Michelle Gildernew retained this historic seat against the combined efforts of the Orange Order, the Unionist parties, the British Tories and the SDLP.

Michelle retained her seat, coming four votes ahead of her nearest rival. Well done Michelle.

The election campaign is a tiring period, I am immensely grateful to all those who worked on the party’s effort in east Belfast. More so I am extremely thankful to those people who voted for Sinn Féin in the constituency; it is a very humbling experience to put yourself before the people and to receive a mandate from them. I take that mandate very seriously and commit myself ton continue to represent their needs as a public representative in the time ahead.

For our part, Sinn Féin in the east of the city will be continuing in the coming period with eyes firmly fixed on the upcoming Assembly and Council elections due to take place next year, in particular we have a council seat to retake and I am strongly of the opinion that we can do that.

Naomi Long of the Alliance Party is the new MP in east Belfast, I congratulate her on her achievement, I did so at the election count when we received the official figures from the returning officer. No one can doubt the political significance of her election and the fall of Peter Robinson who has held that particular seat since 1979. No doubt recent scandals, most likely around expenses as opposed to any personal ones, were detrimental to Robinson within vast areas of working class east Belfast. That is certainly the feedback I have been getting for a considerable time from those working class unionists and loyalists that I regularly engage with. So its interesting times and as much as Naomi Long ticks many media friendly boxes the people look on and they expect.

This morning Gerry Adams called for a united approach by the parties here to proactively face down the inevitable cuts coming from whichever form the next Brit Government takes.

A special mention to my good friend and comrade Alex Maskey whose initiative in south Belfast clearly had political ramifications beyond his own constituency. The move by Alex has paid dividends for nationalist and republican representation and I have no doubt will continue to pay dividends but more specifically for the ongoing project and body of work Sinn Féin is firmly committed to advancing in south Béal Feirste.

To analyse the specific results across the north would be massively time consuming but one thing is for sure, Sinn Féin is on the up and those parties with a wreckers agenda were firmly rejected by citizens across each constituency.

I want to take the opportunity to again thank those people who entrusted me with their vote; I look forward to the continued challenges that no doubt lie ahead. A lot of work needs to be done, I think Sinn Féin are the party to do it!

Speak to you again soon.

Beirigí Bua!!

N

update from Alex

2010-04-23T16:12:00.001+01:00

You Votin'???!

2010-04-22T16:42:00.007+01:00

Sorry I haven’t been able to update the blog as regularly as I would, but I’m sure regular visitors will understand the busy nature of campaigning and if I’m honest, I would much rather spend the best part of my time on streets, at people’s doors, than typing up reports on the blog.

As far as the canvass goes things are looking good!

People are understandably concerned about economic issues, in particular jobs and investment in their communities. A massive issue being raised with me is about social housing and the immediate and real need for more social homes to be built in order to prevent people languishing on waiting lists. People rightly want to stay in the communities in which they were born and reared; in turn they want to bring their own families up in these same, good communities.

Keeping families and people together lends heavily to the important issue of community cohesion and all of the benefits that flow from that. With massive developments taking place on our doorstep citizens in the east of the city want to see the tangable benefits of these future developments. Housing is central to this, but so too is economic and business stimulation, job creating and training opportunities. leisure and sporting facilities and everything that should and must be enshrined in these large scale developments, both Titanic Quarter and Sirocco Quays.

Something raised with me regularly throughout this campaign is the issue of community safety. Concerns about anti-social behaviour are growing all the time; communities can only do so much to prevent that tide from growing, the PSNI have to do more to prevent people from being frightened in their own homes. The idea of our elderly residents being afraid to walk the streets of areas they have spent their entire lives in is unacceptable. I have mentioned the recent, unacceptable behaviour of the PSNI in the Short Strand and intend blogging about it more comprehensively in the time ahead, but for the immediate time being the issues of concern aren’t going to go away. I am glad that I can say Sinn Féin have so far played our role, with others, in bringing the necessary stakeholders and those with specific responsibility in relation to dealing with issues of crime and antisocial behaviour around the table, we must continue to ensure that they deliver on their responsibilities and work to create a safer east Belfast for all.
Last week Sinn Féin held our annual Belfast town hall meeting, this was one of ten held across the Six Counties. What struck me from previous town hall meetings was the growing number of people attending who weren’t Sinn Féin activists. Representaives of the Party leadership, including Gerry Adams, Gerry Kelly, Alex Maskey and Bairbre de Brún MEP. Issues on the night ranged from disability rights, to the parading issue, from social and community investment to the painful subject of suicide. People wanted to know what Sinn Féin were doing in the Executive and more importantly what more we could deliver for people post May 6th.

We’ve been out in force in north Belfast, Gerry Kelly has a very real chance of taking the seat from DUP and Orange Order stalwart Nigel Dodds, who thus far has delivered little for the constituency except attempting to cement sectarian division. Gerry K is the man who can do it, I’m delighted to have been able to join the canvass in support of him and look forward to a few more between now and the election. The feedback on the day was certainly reflective of the desire people have for change and the faith the have in Gerry as the one to deliver it!

In the meantime we have been doing the usual, canvassing, leafleting and getting the posters up!

In the run up to May the 6th we are being contacted by a growing number of people from outside of our core support areas, people wishing us well in the time ahead and contacting out constituency service in their droves. This is a good thing and not least down to the work by Sinn Féin in east Belfast to branch out and engage beyond our traditional areas. Speaking of that though, friends and neighbours in the Short Strand have been giving our canvass team great feedback; they know the party who is on the ground, delivering for them. That party is, and always has been Sinn Féin.
Alex has removed his candidacy in south Belfast; I have no doubt this was a difficult decision for him, Alex is a political leader unequalled in his constituency but given that fact he will acknowledge the reasons this move had to be done, to maximise and consolidate nationalist/republican representation throughout the north. I have no doubt many in south Belfast will be annoyed that no republican is standing in the constituency but be assured that Alex and the south & east Belfast SF team are going nowhere. Our track record in the south of the city speaks for itself and under Alex’s leadership will continue to work on behalf of the people, very much looking forward to the Assembly and Council elections next year. Alex comments on the SF initiative here

Again, sorry this blog post is brief and the postings are becoming fewer but yas know the craic!!!

Beirigí Bua!

NiallÓ

PS I'm writing this during a quick break while working from our office on Bothar na bhFáll before heading back east for another canvass this evening!

PPS My aunt and uncle thankfully got home from Rome safely during the volanic ash disruption but I'd say like most residents in east Béal Feirste, the few days peace and quiet didn't go un-noticed!

SDLP - A Party you can trust...........apparently

2010-04-21T18:19:00.004+01:00

Feel free to click on the above image for a game of 'spot the difference'

update soon........

2010-04-20T17:43:00.002+01:00

Dia daoibh a chairde!

Forgive me for the lack of positing lately, obviously things have been busy with the election.

There are a number of issues I want to update followers on, not least the unacceptable behaviour of the PSNI in the Short Strand last week.

Hope to get some time this week to sit down and give you all an update.

In the meantime you can keep up to date via Twitter www.twitter.com/NiallSF

Beirigí Bua!!

N

Looking ahead

2010-04-06T18:35:00.000+01:00

Eirí Amach na Cásca

2010-04-03T19:05:00.002+01:00

POBLACHT NA H EIREANN
___________________________
THE PROVISIONAL GOVERNMENT
OF THE
IRISH REPUBLIC
TO THE PEOPLE OF IRELAND

IRISHMEN AND IRISHWOMEN: In the name of God and of the dead generations from which she receives her old tradition of nationhood, Ireland, through us, summons her children to her flag and strikes for her freedom.

Having organised and trained her manhood through her secret revolutionary organisation, the Irish Republican Brotherhood, and through her open military organisations, the Irish Volunteers and the Irish Citizen Army, having patiently perfected her discipline, having resolutely waited for the right moment to reveal itself, she now seizes that moment, and, supported by her exiled children in America and by gallant allies in Europe, but relying in the first on her own strength, she strikes in full confidence of victory.

We declare the right of the people of Ireland to the ownership of Ireland, and to the unfettered control of Irish destinies, to be sovereign and indefeasible. The long usurpation of that right by a foreign people and government has not extinguished the right, nor can it ever be extinguished except by the destruction of the Irish people. In every generation the Irish people have asserted their right to national freedom and sovereignty; six times during the last three hundred years they have asserted it to arms. Standing on that fundamental right and again asserting it in arms in the face of the world, we hereby proclaim the Irish Republic as a Sovereign Independent State, and we pledge our lives and the lives of our comrades-in-arms to the cause of its freedom, of its welfare, and of its exaltation among the nations.

The Irish Republic is entitled to, and hereby claims, the allegiance of every Irishman and Irishwoman. The Republic guarantees religious and civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities to all its citizens, and declares its resolve to pursue the happiness and prosperity of the whole nation and all of its parts, cherishing all of the children of the nation equally and oblivious of the differences carefully fostered by an alien government, which have divided a minority from the majority in the past.

Until our arms have brought the opportune moment for the establishment of a permanent National, representative of the whole people of Ireland and elected by the suffrages of all her men and women, the Provisional Government, hereby constituted, will administer the civil and military affairs of the Republic in trust for the people.

We place the cause of the Irish Republic under the protection of the Most High God. Whose blessing we invoke upon our arms, and we pray that no one who serves that cause will dishonour it by cowardice, in humanity, or rapine. In this supreme hour the Irish nation must, by its valour and discipline and by the readiness of its children to sacrifice themselves for the common good, prove itself worthy of the august destiny to which it is called.

Signed on Behalf of the Provisional Government.

Thomas J. Clarke,
Sean Mac Diarmada, Thomas MacDonagh,
P. H. Pearse, Eamonn Ceannt,
James Connolly, Joseph Plunkett

Getting ready for the election

2010-04-01T13:33:00.003+01:00

Getting ready for the election

Election fever, slowly but surely, is beginning to gain momentum.

While others have been seen to be just a tad brass-neck, Sinn Féin have been, for several months now, where it actually matters, not up lamp-posts but on doorsteps..

A lot of the media focus is on the battle within Unionism (given that they know where the nationalist/republican electorate will go) and in particular the ever growing problems within the Irish Tories, the UUP.

In east Belfast we have a politicised and energised electorate; the names for the ballot paper in that constituency is growing week by week and personally, I’m looking forward to the challenge.

East Belfast is the most Unionist constituency in the north of Ireland, for an Irish Republican it can prove difficult to tap into that electorate beyond our traditional support base in the Short Strand. I am confident that through the ongoing engagement with working class Unionism and Loyalism, we are allowing them to see Sinn Féin from a perspective they never have before. The PUL (Protestant/Unionist/Loyalist) community is in growing numbers, availing of the first class services offered by Sinn Féin’s constituency offices right across the north. Clearly they are impressed with the leadership being shown by people like Martin McGuinness as their joint First Minister.

Locally Sinn Féin continues to look ahead, this election will be an important one, and next year in 2011 we have a council seat we are seeking to take back to give those working class communities, Republican or Loyalist, a loud voice in the heart of City Hall once again!

As busy as all candidates become I will do my best to keep you up to date with how things are going. I have outlined before the issues that will no doubt be faced by the candidates in this constituency and many of the others too. I think Sinn Féin’s record in east Belfast and across the Six Counties speaks for itself but that alone is not enough; we will be out and rapping as many doors as we can and speaking with as many people as we can, just like we continue to do regardless of an election or no election.

Honour Ireland's Patriot Dead

2010-03-23T16:24:00.004Z

We gathered in Stormont again this morning for the launch of this years Easter Lilly campaign.

Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was the main speaker at the event hosted by the Sinn Féin Assembly Team; Committee members from the Belfast National Graves Association were also in attendance.

Easter is the most important date in the Republican calender, a time when we come together at gravesides, country lanes, housing estates and at beautiful memorials, to remember those men and women from throughout our history who made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of Irish freedom and independence.

some of our Minister's drivers Mick, Peter and Tony sang a number of Republican ballads

I blogged on last years event here

I was honoured to have been asked to read Forógra 1916, the 1916 Proclamation at today's event. That radical document, the bedrock of our politics continues to inspire and drive our political project today. In the Ireland 0f 2010, it's message has never been more relevant, more important, more needed!

Even as a young Republican, the significance of hosting an event like this in Stormont still strikes me. I am sure the older (or veteran!!) Republicans in attendance acknowledge the significance of it even more so.

south Belfast remembers - Alex Maskey and Vincent Prker with Martin at today's launch

This Easter Republicans are mobilised and energised like never before; we are facing into an important election having just emerged from the last as the largest party in the Six Counties.

As Martin McGuinness noted at today's event, no matter where we go or however far we continue to advance we must remember we are never alone, those who died are always our guides, for us they have laid the solid foundations on our sure path to unity and freedom.

At Easter we once again gather to remember their sacrifice and stand in solidarity with their loved ones. We do so with pride and respect. The Easter Lily as a symbol continues to command respect in amongst our people, it continues to encourage and inspire others to involve themselves in our struggle. Over the coming weeks, during the Easter season we will wear them with Pride.

Beirigí Bua!

Liam Shannon and Stephen McGuigan from the Belfast National Graves Association with deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness in his office at Stormont

Buaiteoirí!!

2010-03-22T18:11:00.004Z

Bhí oíche ceiliúradh i Halla na Cathrach Bhéal Feirste de Sathairn nuair a bhronnadh gradaim Glór na nGael.

Comhghairdeas don Droichead arís uile, buaiteoirí uile-Éireannach sa chomórtais bliantúla seo.

Léiríonn an grianghraf Stiúrthóir an Droichead Dr Pól Deeds ag glacadh an gradaim ón Aire Éamonn Ó Ciuiv.

Arís eile, comhghairdeas daoibh go léir!!

http://www.androichead.com/

( pictiúr glactha ó http://www.andrumamornuacht.blogspot.com/ )

New mural for east Belfast

2010-03-22T14:23:00.001Z

This morning I attended the launch of a new mural near Pitt Park on the lower Newtonards Road.

The mural is entitled ‘No more’ and depicts young people from the lower Newtonards Road and the Short Strand coming together.

The mural includes a poem written by local community worker Jim Wilson and his grandson Dylan (who is one of the young people depicted in the mural). Dearbhlagh from the Short Strand is the other young person depicted.

I was delighted to have been invited to attend this morning’s unveiling and well done to Jim and Joe O’Donnell from the Short Strand Partnership who have been working alongside a number of us on various projects in this part of the city.

Often these types of murals could be branded as ‘tokenistic’ and maybe in some cases that’s correct; in this instance however I don’t think that applies. The reason I say this is because this mural (and the mural which will be launched in the Strand over the coming weeks) aren’t happening in isolation. There is work ongoing at a grassroots level like never before; the very fact that I as the Sinn Féin candidate in the upcoming election, was able to go and stand on the lower Newtonards Road, is indicative of just how much we are trying to improve relations for the benefit of both communities.

More often than not our work happens behind closed doors, out of sight, this morning’s event however allowed some of the many people involved in this important work to come out and be recognised for the unprecedented work they are involved in. I am more than happy to play my small part in trying to move us from a situation where anti social activity on the interfaces is impacting so negatively on our communities to a place where there is mutual understanding, possibly even mutual respect for where each community is coming from.

I am proud of the fact that I am an Irish Republican, I know the people in Pitt Park are proud of their viewpoint as well and that’s fair enough; what strikes me, as someone involved in this work, is that we aren’t going to agree on everything, but we can work to help our community. This is particularly relevant in somewhere like east Belfast with all the economic, employment and investment opportunities that will present themselves over the coming years.

Again, I commend all those involved in today’s mural launch and look forward to the rolling out of this project over the coming period; I also look forward to continued engagement between our communities and hope that together we can play our role in ensuring a safer environment and better physical surroundings for everyone.

Welcome for news of public inquiry into runway extension

2010-03-16T15:26:00.003Z

Copy of the Press Release issued from me this afternoon:

Ó Donnghaile welcomes DOE announcement on Airport Inquiry

March 16, 2010

Sinn Féin’s east Belfast Representative Niall Ó Donnghaile has welcomed today’s news that the Environment Minister is to ask the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) to hold a public inquiry to consider the application from Belfast City Airport (GBBCA) to extend its runway.

Speaking today Mr Ó Donnghaile said;

“Sinn Féin has made clear our support for a full and open public inquiry into any planned extension to the runway at the City Airport. In particular residents in east and south Belfast, as well as north Down, who are so affected by the Airport as it is are demanding this inquiry takes place.

At our recent Ard Fheis I spoke on a motion from the Martin/Treacy Cumann in the Short Strand supporting the call for this inquiry.

While we are at an early stage I would call on all stakeholders and in particular residents affected to participate fully in this inquiry and make sure that their feelings and concerns are clearly heard.

Obviously we will await the findings of any inquiry with interest. Both myself and my party colleague Alex Maskey will be meeting with the Belfast City Airport Watch Group this week and will continue to engage with them in the coming period on this important issue.” CRÍOCH

http://www.sinnfein.ie/contents/18304

Developing the land left at Mountpottinger

2010-03-15T17:04:00.003Z

Myself, Patrick Devlin (Chair - St Matthews Housing Association) and Joe O'Donnell (Director Short Strand Partnership) ahead of our meeting with PSNI ACC Alastair Finlay

Since the closure of the Mountpottinger Barracks as an ‘operational’ PSNI facility, community representatives in the Short Strand have continued to work diligently in trying to secure the land for the development of much needed social and family homes.

While one campaign was successful, another one began.

As revealed to my comrade Alex Maskey at last weeks Policing Board meeting, the site of the Barracks will begin to be demilitarised over the summer. While that will be a welcome development for the community, the last thing we want to see is a similar situation to that of the land vacated by the Andersontown Barracks site.

The wheels of the community’s plan are well and truly in motion.

As a member of the Short Strand Partnership Board’s ‘Housing and Physical Improvement Sub-Group’ I have been involved in the discussions around ‘what next?’ for this site. Sinn Féin and the Short Strand community campaigned for years and ultimately secured the closure of the Mountpottinger Barracks, now the campaign is to ensure that the land that will inevitably become available is acquired by the Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie for the development on the site.

That is what the community wants, that is what the community needs.

Sinn Féin’s approach to the development of the Mountpottinger Barracks site is part of our overall strategic view for development within the Short Strand community. The potential for development at the Translink Bus Depot, the Sirocco Quays site and our community’s interaction with this site and the Titanic Quarter development all feature in our view for the area in the period ahead.

All of this must be in line with how we continue our social and community based interaction with the rest of east Belfast.

Today I joined fellow members of the Partnership’s Housing sub-group, Joe O’Donnell (Director – Short Strand Partnership) and Patrick Devlin (Chair – St Matthews Housing Association) in meeting with the PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Alastair Finlay to discuss the plans for the demilitarisation of the base and ultimately its demolition.

Over the coming weeks and months I intend to outline some of the far thinking and strategic plans that could be developed and help improve the lives of citizens in the Short Strand area and those who live in broader inner East Belfast generally.

Today’s meeting was useful; I look forward to continued engagement with the stakeholders but most importantly, my neighbours in the Trá Ghearr. Next on the list is the Strategic Investment Board.

I’ll keep you all up to date.

Beirigí Bua!

It has been a busy few days

2010-03-10T15:52:00.005Z

It has been a busy few days

Last Friday David and I hit the road to Dublin for the Sinn Féin Ard Fheis; thankfully it was a lovely morning and the sun was with us on the whole journey down.

The Ard Fheis is a fantastic event, bringing comrades from across Ireland and beyond together for discussion, debate, craic and everything else! For me it is now a particularly busy few days, both in the run up to and during the Ard Fheis itself.

Leaving Press Office duties aside for a second, our local Cumann, the Martin/Treacy Cumann Short Strand, as well as South & East Belfast Comhairle Ceantair, had a number of motions up for discussion; from supporting calls for a public inquiry for any runway extension at Belfast City Airport, to standing for community involvement in the Titanic Quarter development, to calling on the Housing Minister to acquire the vacant land at Mountpottinger Barracks, to calling for increased Irish Language provision within all levels of the party.

Bhí an Rún ar na moltaí Gaeilge os comhar na hArd Fheise oíche Aoine, labhair mé ar a son dár ndóighe.

with well know blogger Alan in Belfast

Saturday allowed me to get up and support the calls from the Belfast City Airport Watch Group, as well as the many residents effected, for a public inquiry into any planned extension to the runway. I also took the opportunity to get up and propose our Cumann’s motion on, what else, but Mountpottinger!

The highlight of every Ard Fheis is the Presidential Adress and this year was no different.

Gerry’s slot had been moved to later in the evening at 8:30pm and shortened to a half hour as opposed to the full hour. This was a better idea!

From he walked up to the podium until the minute he finished Gerry was trí thinne!

He is the most popular politician in Ireland for a reason and Saturdays powerful performance reminded us, despite the gutter snipe and horrendous attacks, why that remains the case!

First Minister Martin McGuinness didn't miss and hit the wall either, he made our position regarding coalition with Fine Gael very clear

Next year the Ard Fheis will come to Cúige Uladh and be held in my native city, Béal Feirste. I’m looking forward to thousands of comrades, Sinn Féin activists, descending on Ireland’s second city, and bringing with them the same energy and dynamism that journeys to the capital every year!

Saturday night saw the annual ‘Le chéile’ celebration, honouring Republicans from across Ireland and beyond who have contributed so much to the Republican struggle, more often than not, without thanks, without recognition.

The Le Chéile event rightly changes that.

A particular source of pride for me and for the Republican Family in the Short Strand was that it was one of our own, Johnny Doc, who was the Ulster nominee this year. Johnny’s contribution to the Republican struggle over 70 years has known no bounds, Gerry Adams paid a particularly poignant and respectful tribute to Johnny; I was honoured to be in attendance, I am delighted too for Johnny and his clann. Tá sé tuilte agat Johnny Doc!

You can read more about Johnny in an interview he gave to An Phoblacht ahead of Le Chéile.

On Sunday we were back up the road to Béal Feirste, in the knowledge that Tuesday would bring the major debate on the transfer of Policing and Justice Powers away from England and into the hands of politicians elected in Ireland.

This debate and subsequent vote was a long time coming, but thankfully we secured more powers and control being removed from faceless British Ministers and into a political institution with all-Ireland and cross-border arrangements. Nach rud maith é sin ar turas s’againn? Níl se thart go foil dár ndóighe.

Tuesday also saw the launch of Rith 2010 – an All-Ireland event taking its inspiration from Korika in the Basque Country. Rith 2010 is a continuous run from Belfast, finishing in Galway on Lá na Féile Pádraig. I was honoured and privileged to carry the baton during last nights main run along a stretch of the Ormeau Road passing An Droichead! The main purpose, aside from all the sporting, community and health benefits is that it is dedicated to raising funds for grassroots Irish Language projects and organisations. Tuilleadh eolais anseo.

The baton will finish up in Galway where it will be opened and a special message from Uachtarán Mary McAleese will be read to those gathered.

Ag an Tionól, faoi ceannaireacht Rosie McCorley d’eagraigh foireann Shinn Féin Rith dlúthpháirtíochta ar fud an Eastáit Stormont. Glach roinnt mhaith Airí, CTReanna, agus foireann tacaíocht SF páirt agus bhí an aimsir galánta agus lá den scoth againn go léir!

myself and maskey making our way down the Ormeau Road

clearly we weren't ready for this last photo to be taken!!!

Now the preparation for Easter kicks in, a busy but always important time for Irish republicans; where we gather to remember our Patriot Dead and send our continued solidarity to their loved ones. The Sinn Féin Assembly Team will once again launch the Easter Lilly at Stormont in the coming weeks, as they do every year and then we will gather at gravesides, monuments, street corners and housing estates, not just to remember those who paid the ultimate price in pursuit of our Freedom but to recommit ourselves to the cause that they died for.

Tá neart os ár gcomhair, mar is gnáth!!

Beirigí Bua!!

PS I hope to have photos of the Le Chéile celebrations up soon. NÓD

A new vision for the Holyland

2010-03-03T15:53:00.002Z

SDLP trying to juggle too much....

2010-02-26T16:25:00.003Z

So it looks like the SDLP's Margaret Ritchie will replace Eddie McGrady on the ballot paper for the upcoming Westminster election in south Down.

Already some speculation is taking place on other blogs about the somewhat choreographed nature of this announcement, following on from Ritchie's appointment as 'leader' of the SDLP.

What's interesting for me in all of this is that just a few short weeks ago the Minister for Social Development told the SDLP conference in Newcastle that she wanted to be First Minister. (I made the point at the time, given how 'credible' she tells us the SDLP are on Irish Unity why her ambitions ended at First Minister, why not Taoiseach? Why not Uachtarán?)

It seems as with most SDLP politicians, Margaret Ritchie feels she can in some strange way serve the people of South Down, as well as advance her so called 'credible' strategy for Irish unity from the back bench's of the British Parliament in London.

In saying all this, there is nothing to suggest she'll even see the green leather seats she clearly craves, given the other candidate of note on the ballot paper, in form of Education Minister Caitríona Ruane. Despite being in what is generally considered the SDLP's 'heartland' there is a strong, youthful and effective Sinn Féin activist base around Caitríona; the last European election proved that.

So like Mark Durkan and Gerry Fitt before her, this leader of the SDLP seems destined to want a place in the British House of Commons.

This all from the party who's conference slogan was 'Leadership for Ireland's Future' (worth remembering that the slogan from last years Sinn Féin Ard Fheis was 'Aisling do thodhchaí na hÉireann - A vision for Ireland's Future' - Can the SDLP not see anything??!!!) and a party whose last leader stood aside because he didn't feel he could lead that same party from Westminster, rather it needed a leader based in the Assembly in the north.

It's getting confusing, I know.

But amongst the SDLP mire, Caitríona Ruane will carry the banner for Sinn Féin - go néirí leat Caitríona!!

why not keep a good thing going???

2010-02-26T15:58:00.001Z

I'm on a roll now

2010-02-26T15:50:00.002Z

This is one of my favourite songs, sadly Christy keeps making a mistake in it when he refers to Volunteers Jim Straney and Liam Tomlinson - They weren't from the Falls but two IRA Volunteers who left East Belfast to fight Facism in Spain.

When he visited the Strand in 2002 to play what was a fantastic concert, we made it our business to show him their names on the local Republican Roll of Honour.

We'll forgive him I suppose and just remember that it's a great song, with a great message!!!

NO PASARÁN!!!

just for fun, and seeing how it's friday..........here's another!

2010-02-26T15:38:00.000Z

Always worth a listen......

2010-02-25T14:59:00.000Z

Preas ráiteas ó Folk4Haiti

2010-02-18T14:48:00.001Z

FOLK 4 HAITI
BREIS AGUS 15 AOI SPEISIALTA
THE EMPIRE MUSIC HALL, BÉAL FEIRSTE
AN 28 FEABHRA, 2010: 2.00in - 12 Meán Oíche
£10.00

Is mian le BELFAST 4 HAITI ‘Folk 4 Haiti’ a fhógairt - lá mór de cheol tíre agus de cheol traidisiúnta na hÉireann san Empire Music Hall, Béal Feirste, an 28 Feabhra ó 2.00in go dtí meán oíche. Is costas £10.00 a bheidh ar na ticéid agus is féidir iad a cheannach ag an doras. Rachaidh an fáltas ar fad chuig Ciste Chrith Talún Háítí de chuid an Choiste Éigeandála um Anachana [DEC -Disasters Emergency Committee].

Rinne an crith talún ba láidre a bhí in Háítí le breis agus dhá chéad bliain an tír
Chairibeach a léirscrios Dé Máirt, an 12 Eanáir 2010. Tá breis agus £41,000 bailithe ag Belfast 4 Haiti go dtí seo agus má leanaimid lenár gcuid iarrachtaí, is féidir tuilleadh a bhailiú do mhuintir Háítí. Tabharfaidh ‘Folk 4 Haiti’ ceoltóirí tíre agus ceoltóirí traidisiúnta le chéile ó Bhéal Feirste agus i gcéin le haghaidh ceolchoirme den chéad scoth a mhairfidh lá iomlán.
I measc na n-aíonna speisialta a ghlacfaidh páirt sa cheolchoirm beidh:

Anne, Ben agus Colm Sands
Gerry O’Connor agus Cathal McConnell
Alan Burke
Barry Kerr
The Rapparees
The Pigeon Top
Caoimhín Mac Giolla Chatháin (Bréag)
Craobh Rua
Alalé
Conor Caldwell agus Kevin Mc Cullagh
Casadh
Crúb agus Béal
Clanú
An Modh Díreach
Conor O’Kane
Breandán O’Hare, Ruadhraí O’Kane agus a gcairde

Tabhair faoi deara go bhfuil an ócáid seo arna heagrú chun leasa an DEC - An
Coiste Éigeandála um Anachana.
Ag amanna éigeandála thar lear, tugann an DEC comhaontas uathúil le chéile den
earnáil chúnaimh, an earnáil chorparáideach, an earnáil phoiblí agus an earnáil
chraoltóireachta chun trócaire na tíre a chomhchruinniú, agus le cinntiú go dtéann
an t-airgead a bhailítear chuig gníomhaireachtaí DEC a bhfuil ar a gcumas acu an
fhóirithint is fearr a chur ar fáil go héifeachtach agus go tráthúil do dhaoine. Is é
sainchúram DEC iarrachtaí gníomhaireachtaí a chomhaontú in amanna anachana -
mar thuilte, crith talún nó gorta - cibé áit ar domhan a tharlaíonn sé. Is é an cur
chuige atá againn in DEC maidir lenár gcuid oibre ná méid an airgid a bhailítear a
uasmhéadú agus cinntiú go gcaitear é ar bhealach éifeachtach agus freagrach.
http://www.dec.org.uk/who_we_are/
Uimhir Charthanais: 1062638

DEC HAITI EARTHQUAKE,
PO BOX 999,
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EC3A 3AA.

Ionad: The Empire Music Hall, Botanic Avenue, Béal Feirste
Dáta: Dé Domhnaigh, an 28 Feabhra
Costas Ticéid. £10 ag an doras Doirse: 2.00in
Is féidir airgead a dheonú go díreach chuig an DEC (Disasters Emergency
Committee) trínár leathanach Just Giving ag an seoladh seo:
http://www.justgiving.com/belfast4haiti
Le breis faisnéise a fháil, déan teagmháil le Méabh/Dee ag folk4haiti@hotmail.co.uk
Sonraí suas chun dáta ar Facebook: http://bit.ly/folk4haiti
agus Twitter: http://twitter.com/folk4haiti

Gaeilgeoirí pay tax too Fred

2010-02-18T11:57:00.008Z

An tAire Conor Murphy CTR

Sometimes the old notions from Belfast City Hall in the 1980s and early 90s seem unable to leave some of our ‘city fathers’ – or at least that seems to be the case with Cllr Fred Cobain MLA of the Ulster Unionist Party. (Old habits die hard and all that……..)

Fred, who is also chair of the Regional Development committee at Stormont is complaining that ‘public’ money is being spent on providing Irish classes for civil servants working within DRD.

I could go into the whole negative, sectarian, bigoted and repulsive history of Belfast City Council during Fred’s heyday but I think everyone knows the state that particular institution was in just a few years ago and in particular its total hostility to anything relating to the Irish language.

That was then of course, this is now.

The reality is that the Irish speaking community, an ever present and diverse population in Belfast, is growing all of the time. Growing numbers of parents are choosing to educate their children through the medium of Irish, more and more naíscoileanna and bunscoileanna are sprouting up across the Six Counties. I first went to Naíscoil Mhic Airt in the Short Strand in 1987, then onto Bunscoil Phobail Feirste in 1989 and then to Meánscoil Feirste in 1996. Since graduating from university I have worked in the Irish medium sector but as well as this I have the ability to go about my life from day to day through Irish.

Whether its watching TG4 or listening to Belfast’s Raidió Fáilte; whether its getting my news online from An Druma Mór or Nuacht24; its might mean accessing my money out of an ATM that operates in Irish, or getting my shopping from the fully bilingual Sainsbury’s Store in Andersontown; it means meeting friends for lunch in Caife Feirste in the heart of the Gaeltacht Quarter; it means going for a pint in Cumann Cluain Ard or Maddens or Kelly’s; it means heading to see a concert or exhibition in An Droichead in south Belfast; it means working on the ground to help the growth of the language in the Short Strand through Dóchas na Trá; it means campaigning for an Acht na Gaeilge and it means having an option if I wanted to send children of mine to a range of first class schools which happen to be Gaelscoileanna.

The list is endless, but it isn’t unique to me, or a few dozen former Bunscoil students, this list applies to thousands of citizens across the north and hundreds of thousands across Ireland. People from all over the world are coming here to learn one of Europe’s oldest and richest languages. Last year some friends of mine were attending classes in the Gaeltacht in Dún na nGall and were learning alongside students from the USA, from Australia, from Sweden and even as far away as Japan. Recently it was announced that a University in China is to offer its students a course on the Irish Language.

And today we hear the news that the Department for Regional Development in the north is offering Irish classes for their civil servants. The key aspect of this for me is that the classes are fully subscribed, with a waiting list of people looking to avail of more ranganna.

The DRD has been to the fore in the promotion of the language since Minister Conor Murphy came into office; from the bilingual sign outside their headquarters in Adelaide Street in the heart of Belfast, to bilingual advertisements in the main local papers, to the Irish language adverts broadcast on Raidió Fáilte informing people of their many services. Translink have also published literature aimed at students in the Irish Medium Sector.

I suppose unsurprising, the announcement of the classes was met with opposition from Fred Cobain. He said;

"It doesn't matter if it cost £1,500 or £5, that's not the issue - it's public money," said Mr Cobain, who is chairman of the Assembly's Regional Development Committee.
"If people want to learn the Irish language, I'm perfectly happy for them to do this, but it has to be at their own expense."

So if we adhere to Fred’s view then the development of the language would receive no government investment or support, of course for many of us that was the case for a long enough time, but as I said earlier, that was then, this is now.

The notion that I, as someone who chooses to live my life through Irish does so to upset a broad section of our society is a nonsense, in fact it borders on offensive!

The idea that my choosing to speak Irish is ok "so long as I do it in private" is simply another form of prejudice and bigotry, all be it a slightly veiled version.

I cherish the fact that I am in a position to speak the native language of this country; I am hugely conscious of the fact that it is a gift that my parents imparted onto me by making the hugely difficult decision (because it was a difficult decision at the time my brothers and I began school) to send me three miles across the city each and every morning so that I would have an education through Irish.

They didn't make that decision to offend anyone else, it was a concious, informed and I believe beneficial decision and I thank them for that. I'm sure other pupils who have passed through the system feel the same way with regard to their parents and the decision they made.

Readers should bear in mind that the decision to do that back then really wasn't an easy one. Schools weren't funded, there wasn't as many as there are today, there wasn't always a great deal of teachers, the schools were usually housed in prefab huts; our school bus passed 3 permanent UDR and RUC checkpoints every morning before it even got to the Ormeau Road and almost daily it was stopped and held for a period of time, usually with one of our parents, who were volunteering on the bus to keep an eye on us, being taken off to be more often than not, searched, harrassed and sometimes arrested.

But I wanted to update this post because I have seen the issue debated on other blogs. Put simply, it offends me when someone suggests my very real love for the language is based solely on the premise of offending others or that it is legitimate so long as I go away somewhere and do it privately, as though it was something to be ashamed of is a nonsense.The core issue here is that the new generation of Irish speakers simply aren't tolerating or accepting that notion anymore. The days of 'croppy lie down' are well and truly gone. Buíochas le Dia!

The reality of this situation is that DRD, much like ALL of the departments, has obligations under the European Charter in relation to the promotion of the Irish language.

Of course when Fred talks about public money he forgets that Gaeilgeoirí pay taxes too; we are entitled to this service, we contribute to the economy through all the things I listed above, as well as through the media and creative industries. These classes were primarily sought out by staff within DRD who recognise their obligations, who see the reality of an ever growing Irish speaking population and the fact that their department is, thankfully, moving into an inclusive and unprecedented place.

I say all power and fair play to them!! Go n-eirí libh!

This news, coupled with the news that the Irish Language Broadcasting Fund has received a £12million boost and that there is an additional £8million for the development of infrastructural Irish language projects, simply goes to show that we are continuing to move forward, continuing to make the language open, available and accessible to more and more people.

Despite what Fred and people of a similar view think, An Ghaeilge has been here for quite some time, it has survived through quite a lot, it enriches all of our cultural experiences and for some of us even our lives, to me, that’s a good thing.

Beirigí Bua!!

PS: Scríobh mé an bhlag seo i mBéarla mar ba mhaith liom na phointí atá ann a leathnú amach i measc an phobail nach bhfuil Gaeilge acu, sílm go bhfuil an t-ábhar tábhachtach do níos mó na Gaeilgeoirí amháin. GRMA

Celebrating Chinese New Year

2010-02-17T13:14:00.003Z

The Year of the Tiger

On Sunday Alex Maskey and I joined with hundreds of other citizens in attending the Chinese New Year celebrations in St George's Market. I knew this was an impressive venue for a colourful, family celebrations after being at the POBAL event a few months ago.

Alex, by now, is a veteran of the Chinese community's celebrations, it was evident from how many people came over to welcome him and shake his hand, just how well got he is amongst out local Chinese population.

The event itself was great, the sights, the sounds and the smells were all outstanding and I particularly enjoyed the onstage entertainment.

Already we're looking forward to next year!!

Emotions run high at East Belfast library consultation

2010-02-09T15:54:00.002Z

Last night I joined around fifty people in the Mount Conference centre on Woodstock link at a consultation on the future of library provision in Belfast.

This was one in a series of meetings being held across the city; some people suggested last night that at the very least the meeting should have been held in one of the threatened libraries.

It was clear from the moment that Irene Know took to her feet to give a presentation on the rationale for the consultation that this was going to be a heated meeting.

A number of other local politicians were in attendance, the PUP’s Dawn Purvis and Dr John Kyle as well as May Campbell from the DUP and members of the Socialist Party and the TUV.

I'm sure people will note the absence of the UUP.

At the meeting both myself and Dawn were tweeting regularly – www.twitter.com/niallsf & www.twitter.com/dawnpurvis

The main thrust of the meeting, with people venting it pretty clearly, was that they believed there is nothing wrong with the libraries that exist, that the review was unnecessary and that to remove the existing library provision would have a truly detrimental effect on the community.

People were angry, some were emotional, people made the case that the library was a resource to help them learn English, to get our elderly neighbours out of the house for a while and save heating at home. Others made the case that they either couldn’t afford to travel to a library further away if the local ones were to close, some made the point that as disabled people they weren’t able to travel any further than their local library.

The Short Strand doesn’t have a dedicated library resource, the Community Centre recently opened the Jimbo Farrelly memorial library, a voluntary based effort in the centre that allows people to bring their old books and take some away. It is a vocal point for bookworms and knowledge seekers in our district. It is a wonderful resource.

It’s important to remember also the role the local, established libraries play to for schools in this part of the city.

Another key point raised by a man who himself works as a librarian, is the ever growing need for computer and internet provision, he made the point that his daughter used the library to do her homework night after night as he had no computer or internet access at home. Sometimes we forget just how valuable the library can be for people.

Most people support library provision, I’m sure everyone has a memory of their first time going to the library. I certainly remember my Da taking me over to Central Library to become a member when I was very, very young. Both my parents love reading; they encouraged us to read too, my Da, myself and my two brothers would be regular visitors to the library throughout our childhood. When we would go to Central Library (which seemed huge to me at the time!) I would look forward to taking out a ‘Garfield’ or ‘Asterix’ book; as I got older it would become Roald Dahl.

Last night it was clear to me that the people in East Belfast are focussed and determined in relation to this matter, most of them were pensioners, and fair play to them, they have my support!

Like many throughout the city I will be watching the progress of this consultation carefully, I will be supporting the retention of accessible, modern and community based library provision in what is the ninth most socio-economically deprived electoral ward in the north of Ireland.

A lot of work lies ahead, after last night I am confident we can do it!

Busy on the Hill

2010-02-03T16:50:00.006Z

My apologies for not blogging as much lately, things have been 'relatively' busy up on the Hill!

People are more than aware of the outstanding issues that need to be resolved in the immediate time ahead; like everyone else in our community I think they can and must be done without further delay. Sinn Féin have made it clear they are committed to closing the deal.

Having been at Hillsborough, Caisleán Cromghlinne, last week it is easy to understand why this process has been frustrating.

On the ground in East Belfast, we have seen a totally unacceptable upsurge in robberies and burglaries over recent weeks. Some have targeted local business premises, others have been more opportunistic and have targeted the elderly and vulnerable members of our community; very often these incidents are not just traumatic for those victims but can also be violent. The latest incident saw a gym on Bloomfield avenue targeted by two robbers; the PSNI have to do more. This is an issue that has been raised with them repeatedly over recent months, not just in private engagements I'm sure, but also at the very public DPP meetings.

Later this week I will again meet with the developers of the Sirocco site on the Short Strand, this engagement has been an on-going one for some time, I have spoken on the key issues numerous times; they remain much the same. No doubt I will continue to keep you informed of where we are, not just with Sirocco but with Titanic and other smaller developments as well.

Unemployment, training opportunities and housing need remain the issues for this constituency and many others. The Department of Social Development have an ideal opportunity to 'tapaigh and déis ' and cease their policy of 'off the shelf' buying and engage with communities in order to help sustain them well into the future as well as providing employment and economic stimulation.

Bhí ceiliúradh 40 bliain bliain Phobal Bhóthar Seoighe agus Bunscoil Phobal Feirste i gCnoc an Anfa an seachtain seo chuaigh thart. Bhí me fhéin le freastal ar an rud, ach cosúil leis an duine a d'eagraigh an rud, bhí me gafa i gCaisleán na Croimghlinne!

Ach bhí an loachra ghael Caitríona Ruane i láthair agus creidim gur oíche den scoth a bhí ann. Maith sibh uilig, is cúis bróid domhsa mar iar-dhalta BPF go bhfuil ag éirí libh i gcónaí!!

Will do my best to keep you up speed over the coming days, don't forget i'm on twitter @ http://twitter.com/NiallSF

Support for Haiti

2010-01-21T11:18:00.002Z

The Cuban Ambassador to Ireland Ms. Teresita Trujillo, advises today that an account has been established by the Cuban Government to receive international donations from people wishing to support the work of the Cuban medical brigades in Haiti. The details below will facilitate a credit transfer from any bank in the world:

Account name: Terremoto HaitíBank: BICSASWIFT

Code: BIDCCUHHAccount number: 01321010770900

Important work ahead

2010-01-14T14:05:00.005Z

On Tuesday evening I left what was a very busy day of work in the Sinn Féin Press Office to make my way down to the Mount Conference Centre at Woodstock Link.

As I ventured across the road I saw a group of teenagers from the Strand head in ahead of me; they greeted me in typical Béal Feirste fashion; “There’s Niall!”, “Hiya Niall!”, “Alright Niall?!”.

These same young people were some of a group from both the Short Strand and Inner East Belfast who have been working with the Inner East Belfast Antisocial Behaviour/Young People Interface Project. (Long title but important work nonetheless!)

The project began after a meeting of key stakeholders in East Belfast 18 months ago in the East Belfast Mission; I attended that meeting, which focused on collectively dealing with the problems of antisocial activity at the interfaces, youth provision and community safety, but also about approaching all of this in a joint up, cohesive and comprehensive fashion. Tuesday night showed the beginning of this work and why it must continue in the time ahead.

Tuesday also saw launch of the Project’s “R U Brickin’ it?” campaign as well as the launch of a DVD showing the views of all those caught up in the antisocial activity at the interface; the victims, the young people, their parents, youth/community workers and the PSNI.

The DVD in my opinion did a good job at getting some of the views across and it would be excellent if it was made more widely available. The whole purpose of the “Brickin’ it” campaign is to highlight the very real and often times dangerous consequences of engaging in this type of activity, particularly at the interfaces.

Its important to note that the room in the Mount was filled to capacity with people having to line up outside in the hall to listen to contributions from speakers from the Short Strand Community Forum, the CROWN Project, the Doyle Youth Club, the Bridge, Alternatives and the Project itself. Many politicians, from the UUP, PUP and Alliance were also in attendance, as were community reps, members of the community, but most importantly in my opinion, was the fact that so many young people, some of whom have been caught up in the problems, were there on the night. The work of the Belfast Conflict Resolution Consortium (www.bcrc.eu) as well as the East Belfast Area Contacts cannot also not be diminished, the seeds of this project were planted by the work which they were determined to begin in order to tackle the problems we were having to deal with (sometimes on a nightly basis!) at the interface.

I wish the project every success and I look forward to assisting their endeavours in the time ahead; I think we all have a key stake in it’s work given its importance to our community.

Ceisteanna fa choinne an 'Royal Mail'

2010-01-07T15:30:00.003Z

Tá CTR Shinn Féin do Tuaisceart Bhéal Feirste Carál Ní Chuilín chun iarraidh ar Oifig an Phoist fiosrúcháin a dhéanamh isteach ar cén dóigh a raibh baill foirne ábalta scríobh ar litir seolaithe as Gaeilge “Most people in this country only speak English” ar na mallaibh.

Tá Carál go hiomlán ceart nuair a deireann sí go bhfuil an phobail Gaelach i dteideal meas ón Oifig nuair a bhaineann siad úsáid asan seoladh i dteanga s’acu fhéin. Go pearsanta, tá mo chuid litreacha uilig seolaithe trí mheán na Gaeilge.

Labhair mé le Carál fa seo níbe luaithe agus is rud a bheas mé fhéin, chomh maith lei fhéin, a choinneal súil géar air sna laethanta beaga romhainn.

Ba chóir do Ghaeilgeoirí ar fud na Sé Chontae lean leo a’ bhaint úsáid as an foirm Gaeilge, rud a bheas mé fhéin a dhéanamh mar is gnáth agus is cinnte go mbeidh muid uilig ag súil le gníomhach ó Oifig an Phoist gan mhoill.

Ráiteas Carál @ http://www.sinnfein.ie/contents/17964

An Glór Poblachtach

2010-01-07T14:46:00.001Z

Tá iris úrnua de chuid Shinn Féin, ‘An Glór Poblachtach’ anois ar fáil ón pháirtí nó sa chultúrlann i mBéal Feirste. Tá costais £2:50 no 3 Euro air.

Tá an iris léite agam cheanna féin agus caithfidh mé a rá, is léamh iontach suimiúla é!

Beidh an Glór ar fáil dhá uair sa bhliain agus tá síntiús ar fáil.

Déanaigí bhur ndícheall cóip a fháil agus níos tábhachtaí arís tacaígí leis an iris Gaelach seo.

Tuilleadh eolais @ www.sinnfein.ie

An Glór ABÚ!

Áthbhliain faoi mháise

2010-01-03T18:47:00.004Z

A chairde,

The blog has been somewhat quiet for the past number of weeks, not least due to the onset of the Christmas and New Year's Festivities.

As well as that, during December I lost my Grandmother, May. She passed on the 18th of December at the age of 80, surrounded by her family. It was a truly difficult thing for our family to go through and while I am not yet sure that I wish to write about that day and the previous weeks and months, what I do know is this, I'm very glad I was there that afternoon.

A particular thanks to everyone who called to the house, sent their best etc.

But as we enter 2010 we enter into a period of heavy lifting, the parties have ended for another while and the shoulders will be returning to the wheel.

For us in East Belfast there are various issues that need continued attention and some that need immediate action.

As has been the case for some time now, the major developments at Titanic Quarter and Sirocco Quays will bleep loudly on the radar of communities within this part of the city.

Just a short while ago we saw why there is very real concern at any planned extension to the runway at Belfast City Airport, there must be a full public inquiry into any planned extension, the people affected in South and East Belfast, as well as North Down, deserve no less!

More broadly speaking crime and anti-social behaviour, the scourge of drugs and the safety of our elderly and vulnerable citizens is a massive issue of concern. Individualy and collectively, our community can only do and should do as much as they can to make their areas safe and friendly places, but the onus remains firmly on the PSNI to act accordingly in response to needs of our varied communities. They have some way to go in the time ahead to ensure that communities feel safe and free to go about their daily business; there is an onus on us however to make sure we proactively hold the PSNI to account at every step of the way. All of our people deserve the highest standard of policing and I firmly believe that by working together as political, community, Church and Statutory representatives we can continue in the process of achieving that highest standard.

The economic downturn is hitting homes right across Ireland; every day I see and hear of the effects on people here in my own community in the Short Strand, as I mentioned earlier, the potential for multi million pound investment on our doorsteps in the form of Titanic and Sirocco as well as others, must not be squandered, it must not be allowed to divert away from the very communities who surround them.

Housing provision is a massive issue in this part of Belfast, as it is in other parts of Belfast. Communities across the East are crying out for decent, social and family homes to sustain our long established communities well into the future, keeping families and neighbours together. While housing will be a major feature of the bigger developments, and will hopefully be of benefit to all of Belfast, we in the East cannot pin all our hopes on this. The Minister has made housing a major priority during her tenure, we need to see some of that focus put on this constituency. Margaret Ritchie could start by heeding the calls from the Short Strand community to acquire the land at the now redundant Mountpottinger Barracks and utilise it for social, family homes.

For Sinn Féin the New Year brings with it a Westminster election, on the ground our party continues to remain active and relevant, we are continuing to strive in terms of breaking down barriers and meeting with and working on behalf of people we never have before. The people in this constituency share many common problems and issues, things that Sinn Féin have been proactive in trying to tackle. In a constituency like this (which correct me if I'm wrong, is considered the most Unionist of all the constituencies) I believe we are punching well above our weight in terms of helping citizens and working on their behalf, not just in our traditional, core area of the Short Strand but increasingly beyond that.

As much as that is welcome political reality, we can always do more and I am certainly committed to the task of doing what I can to improve the conditions, environment, interaction and well-being of communities right across this part of our city.

Go néirí linn agus áthbhliain faoi mháise daoibh go léir!

Winter Bulletin

2009-12-16T14:20:00.003Z

This picture shows myself and Alex Maskey delivering our latest Constituency Newspaper, on this occasion in Ballynafeigh.

The bulletin will be available to view on our local website in the coming weeks.

http://www.sebelfastsinnfein.com/

A vast area of the constituency has already been covered by activists who have been stomping the streets of South & East Belfast these past few weeks; I'm not sure of any other party who could mobilise people to go out night after night, in the winter in the immediate run up to Christmas, so our thanks goes to those comrades.

Maith sibh!!

Stop Climate Chaos

2009-12-05T20:20:00.003Z

I joined Sinn Féin MEP for Six Counties, Bairbre de Brún at 'The Wave' in Belfast City Centre earlier today.

Lots more information here http://www.stopclimatechaos.ie/

Met up with lots of people who were at the recent Seminar South & East Belfast Sinn Féin held on 'The Road to Copenhagon', where I initially learnt about the Wave initative.

Ar aghaidh linn..............

2009-11-26T14:44:00.004Z

Tuesday night saw me leave the Slugger O Toole Awards and head over to the Chinese Welfare Association's brilliant new centre on the Ormeau Road.

Party activists from across our Comhairle Ceantair area had gathered to select their nominee's for the next Westminster election.

Alex Maskey was the only name in the hat for south Belfast and mine for the east of the city.

Gerry Kelly was our guest speaker, he was joined by Vincent Parker our party rep in Balmoral who chaired proceedings and Mary McArdle from Sinn Féin Cúige Uladh who oversaw proceedings.

East Béal Feirste was up first and I was nominated and seconded from the body gathered in the hall. I was asked to come forward and sign the Sinn Féin candidate pledge and say a cúpla focal. I won't bore readers of the blog but I think it's fair to say what I covered on Tuesday evening will be covered by this blog over the coming weeks and months. Thanks to Kells for his kind words also. Next up was the south of the city, naturally enough Alex was nominated unopposed and endorsed fully by the body of the hall.

Alex also signed the Sinn Féin candidate pledge and said his piece.

This will be the second time my name has found its way onto a ballot paper for Sinn Féin and it truly is an honour to be selected by friends and comrades from different generations and different experiences of the republican struggle. It is a very humbling thing to have them entrust me with representing the party in any election. Go raibh míle maith agaibh, is cúis bróid domhsa é.

The reality is, as Alec said on the night, that no one candidate can operate in isolation, and while we in south and east don't have the same amount of people as the north and west of the city I think its fair to say we are truly punching above our weight and that is down to the standard of activists we are lucky to have.

From people in the hall who are approaching their sixties and have been involved in the republican movement their whole lives, to those who were there who are much much younger, but are just as committed and just as determined to advance our republican objectives.

On another personal level, it's an honour for me to be selected alongside someone as respected as Alex, who is a true leader within our party, its humbling to watch him and to learn from him and for me, who better to learn from. He is a friend and a comrade and I wish him all the best in the time ahead.

Go neirí linn!

Seminar success!

2009-11-23T14:00:00.005Z

Bairbre de Brún & Declan Allison (Friends of the Earth) with myself and Balmoral Rep Vincent Parker

Friday morning saw Alex Maskey host a seminar entitled “The Road to Copenhagen: The need for global agreement on climate change”.

Unfortunately Alex wasn’t able to attend, he was in Baghdad, but Sinn Féin’s Representative in Balmoral, Vincent Parker stepped in to chair the event.

The main address was delivered by MEP for the Six Counties Bairbre de Brún who spoke extensively on her work in the EU Parliament on the issue of climate change and in particular on her role on the environment committee. Bairbre opened her address as Gaeilge and made clear that while the language of the seminar would be English she was more than happy to take questions and answer them in Irish. During the Q&A a interesting question on the cost of becoming ‘greener’ was put to Bairbre as Gaeilge.

Bairbre has recently returned from Washington DC where members of the Environment committee were lobbying the US Congress and Senate on this very issue. Bairbre also spoke on the role of the EU in the run up to the global conference in Copenhagen which she will attend.

Bairbre was joined by Declan Allison from ‘Friends of the Earth’ who spoke of measures that we can take locally in terms of individual action but also in terms of political lobbying to help tackle the problem of climate change and global warming.

A varied group of interested organisations were represented at the seminar and during the question and answers session it was interesting to hear many of their contributions on both speakers contributions.

Afterwards lunch was served and I think that was where the main discussions took place, people took the opportunity to speak to Bairbre and she clearly enjoyed the opportunity to touch base with such a varied group on an issue very close to her and to their hearts.

The event will be covered more extensively in this weeks An Phoblacht.

UPDATE: Link to the article from An Phoblacht

http://www.anphoblacht.com/news/detail/39205

de Brún to host Climate Change event in south Belfast

2009-11-18T16:15:00.005Z

Lunchtime Seminar

THE ROAD TO COPENHAGEN

The need for global agreement on climate change

Middleton SuiteWellington Park, Hotel - Belfast on Friday 20th November, 2009 11.30am - 1pm

Guest Speakers: Bairbre de Brún MEP and Declan Allison, Friends of the Earth

CLÁR 11am - 11.30am: Registration

11.30am -11.35am:Welcome and introduction by Vincent Parker, Sinn Féin representative for Balmoral

11.35am -11.50am: Bairbre de Brún MEP to report on her work on climate change in the European Parliament and on her meetings in Washington and Brussels on the prospects for a global agreement on climate change at December's UN conference in Copenhagen

11.50am -12.00 noon: Comments by Declan Allison of Friends of the Earth - Think Global - Act Local 12.00 noon - 1pm: Questions & Answers - Chairperson: Vincent Parker

1pm - 1.30pm: Buffet Lunch

constituency round-up

2009-11-18T15:52:00.004Z

First off is the on-going work at the junction of the Mountpottinger Road, Albertbridge Road and Castelreagh Street.

I have been lobbying for some time now to have a permanent, right turn put in place at that junction. Anyone who navigates this turn will know it's a difficult one; and one that has proved to be an issue of concern for the many commuters, both locally and from outside the area, who use it day and daily.

I actually took the opportunity to raise this issue with Roads Minister Conor Murphy recently and thankfully we are now seeing the work undertaken and I have no doubt drivers, as well as pedestrians will benefit from it when finished!

Next up we have the issue of the Housing Executive planters along Mountforde Road; they have been a bone of contention for residents along there for some time now. We had lobbied the HE last year and were successful in getting the vast over-growth removed from them, but at the wishes of the residents who live alongside the planters we ploughed ahead in trying to get them fully removed.

The Housing Executive acknowledged this and credit to them after some time, they agreed to remove the unwanted and unsightly planters.

Work is well underway at the minute, so me and local Sinn Féin Cumann member Gerard Pridgent took the opportunity to call and see local resident Tony Ward, who to be fair had been suffering greatly as a result of the planters presence in terms of unwanted dumping, litter, bad smell and anti-social activity.

So we are happy that the work is started and look forward to seeing the final results!

Hurler on the hill

2009-11-17T13:33:00.003Z

Regular visitors to the blog will remember this blog post from July this year http://glormhicairt.blogspot.com/2009/07/hurling-on-hill.html

It was even carried on BBC Politics Editor Mark Davenport's Blog http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/markdevenport/2009/07/following_in_carsons_footsteps.html

But I came across this interesting image over on Máirtín Ó Muilleor's Blog of well known Hurler and GAA enthusiast Edward Carson:

Ógra SF National Congress 2009

2009-11-16T12:06:00.000Z

Symbolically it was probably fitting that building work was taking place in the Irish Republican Felons Association’s club this weekend; it was the venue for the Ógra Shinn Féin National Congress. A lot of building work is going on within our party too!

It was clear from the few events I attended over the weekend that Ógra are to the fore of this building work.

On Saturday afternoon I ventured over the bridge and into Castle Street where I bounced into a Black Hack and took the journey to the Felons. I was met at the door by outgoing National Organiser of Ógra Barry McColgan, he looked every bit the busy man. I was looking forward to the debate being held inside, ‘Ireland’s Future? Free, Green and Left.’ (I would have added ‘Gaelach’ to the title, possibly an oversight on the part of Ógra) Eoin O’Broin from Sinn Féin, fellow east Belfast man Steven Agnew from the Green Party and Dónal Lyons from Labour were to lead the debate; sadly Dónal sent his apologies.

I’m sure Ógra will cover the content of the debate on their own blog and I know that they also videoed it, so it’s probably better that I don’t venture into too much of the details other than to say it was a worthwhile debate and I think a necessary aspect of any event of this kind, definitely something Ógra should look to build upon in the coming years. I think it’s fair to say Steven Agnew took a lot of flack on the current standing of the Green’s in the 26 Counties, I don’t think he had expected anything less!

That evening it was back over the bridge, this time to the city centre and this time in the company of Alex Maskey. We were attending the celebration dinner in honour of 100 years of na Fianna Éireann. Gearóid Ó hEara was the main speaker and spoke of the role of na Fianna over it’s century of history. It was an emotional evening, given the vast amount of families of those Fianna who were in attendance; each one receiving a presentation on behalf of Ógra, a tremendous gesture and I think worthy of special recognition; maith sibh Ógra!!

All in all, for the small amount of events I was able to attend I was hugely impressed by the work ongoing in Ógra, it was fair to say that in the Felons on Saturday afternoon there was over 100 young people from across Ireland in attendance. Ógra have a vital role to play both within our party and within the wider struggle; I wish all of those who attended this year’s Congress (no doubt some of them being new to our party) all the best for the future and look forward to working with them in pursuit of our Republican objectives.

Beirigí Bua!!!

FYI: www.ograshinnfein.blogspot.com

Part of the real talking in East Belfast

2009-11-13T16:06:00.004Z

Part of the real talking in East Belfast

I have blogged on several occasions about the ongoing themed discussions taking place in East Belfast, organised jointly by the Short Strand Partnership and East Belfast Mission.

I have been fortunate in that I have been able to attend each one so far, and these discussions along with ongoing engagement in various formats in the East really make for interesting insights.

The topics of the discussions, which have been held in both the Short Strand and the Newtonards Road have been ‘Constitutionally Different, Politically Similar?’, ‘Civil Rights or Civil Unrest?’, the last one was on the issue of Parading and the latest on the whole topic of Policing and Justice.

The panel was Brian Maguire (PSNI Superintendant South & East Belfast), Jeffrey Donaldson (DUP) and Alex Maskey (Sinn Féin).

If I’m honest, last nights debate was probably the most heated to date (and that’s certainly not to exaggerate it either because thankfully all of these nights have been respectful and measured). Given that on this occasion we were on the Newtonards Road I think it’s predictable that Alex got a lot of questions directed towards him, and that’s fair enough.

In saying all of that, the other two panellists didn’t get off easy, in particular Brian Maguire was challenged on the shared issue of concern around police effectiveness in this part of Béal Feirste. Just what were they doing to tackle anti-social behaviour, burglaries, the scourge of drugs? This was an issue raised by people from both the Short Strand and wider East Belfast. Towards the end of the night Jeffrey was challenged by an audience member who was most definitely opposed to DUP policy on sharing power with Sinn Féin, he indicated clearly his opposition to equality and partnership government and even predicted the DUP taking a hammering at the next election because of their stance on the issue; Jeffrey challenged him to put his name on the ballot in Lagan Valley next time round.

Other issues raised were the whole issue of the PSNI full time reserve, any threat posed by so called dissidents and when and how Policing and Justice Powers will be devolved.

Once again I enjoyed last night’s engagement; of course I took the opportunity to ask a question too! I look forward to many more and once again commend Joe and Gary for the work they are trying to do in relation to these discussions in trying to build a degree of respect and in my opinion most importantly understanding of each other’s position. It isn’t always easy, as last night proved; at times things can be frustrating and sometimes even depressing when we listen to the views of some who are still out there but at the end of the day that needs to happen in order to be overcome. We still have a fair deal of work ahead but I think events like last night’s and others will go someway in making sure we all have a say on where we are and where we are going.

Go n-eirí linn!!

some of us who attended the debate last night

Aimsir den scoth!

2009-11-12T15:35:00.011Z

Báiligh muid taobh amuigh den Tionól inniu le céiliúradh a dhéanamh ar 125 bhliana den Cumann Lúithchleas Ghael.

Ar an droch uair bhí aimsir uafásach ann ach sin mar atá an saol is dócha!

We gathered on the Stormont Estate earlier today to join with Tom Daly, President of Ulster GAA, in celebrating 125 years of the GAA.

The weather was miserable but the spirits were high!!

Gerry Adams had hosted the event and it follows on from a similar one held a few months back on the Black Mountain, an Sliabh Dubh.

Above are some quick snaps I got (even I got in for a sneeky one!!), the weather didn’t do me any favours where that was concerned!

As I write my shoes are resting on top of the radiator in the office, they’ll need to be there a while!

Ach ar aon nós, go mairfidh na crainn agus go n-eirí leis an CLG le 125 bliain eile!!

The weather was that bad we could have played a match, after all, Gerry Adams did encourage us to form a Stormont team, I'n sure Edward the Hurler would look down favourably upon that??????

Beir Bua!

Belfast Health Rally

2009-11-07T15:55:00.003Z

Sinn Féin activists and representatives put in a great presence at the Health Rally yesterday in the centre of Béal Feirste.

Our picture shows some of us, Vinty Parker, Sue Ramsey, me, Alex Maskey, Conor Maskey, Marie Cush and Janice Austin.

Irish Congress of Trade Unions Day of Action

2009-11-05T16:25:00.005Z

I will be joining other party activists from across Belfast at the ICTU's rally in the city centre tomorrow at 1pm. the rally is leaving the Royal at 12pm and is one of many national demonstrations taking place in various towns and cities in Ireland.

Gerry Adams has blog significantly on this issue and you can read it over on ttp://www.leargas.blogspot.com/

I would urge as many people as possible to attend.

IS CEART É AN CÚRAM SLÁINTE!

HEALTHCARE IS A RIGHT!

Some of our MLA’s should be careful they don’t fall in!!

2009-11-04T15:25:00.002Z

Some people will say I should spend less time looking out the office window and more time at the desk, but such is life!

As myself and David had a look over the grounds of Stormont from the window in Séanna’s office we weren’t too sure if what we thought we saw was actually what we were seeing!

“It’s just leaves!” says I

“I’m telling you, it isn’t, it’s something else!” says David

After I went down and had a look, turned out he was right.

Seems we have ourselves a Fairy Ring on the grounds of Stormont.

I made sure I didn’t fall in, who knows if anyone would even bother to pull me out!

Anyway, much folklore and legend applies to the presence of Fairy Ring’s or Fáinní Sídhe, and if I was the man who mows the grass in Stormont, I’d be careful to make sure I avoided it!

Coiste open day brings vital information to ex-POWs

2009-11-03T15:58:00.003Z

Coiste na n-Iarchimi held a successful information day in An Culturlann MacAdaim/O'Fiaich in West Belfast on Saturday 31 October.

Speakers representing a number of ex-prisoners groups from across Belfast outlined areas of work that they are involved in as they challenge the prejudices that former prisoners still face.

It emerged from Saturday's meeting that a number of insurance companies have refused to honour their policies with former republican prisoners because of the fact that they had spent time in prison.

However, Coiste has spoken to other insurers who are happy to provide insurance cover for ex-POWs.

Former Sinn Fein councillor Joe Austin also outlined the work of the Still Imprisoned Project.

Still Imprisoned, which is based in Tar Anall, provides support for former republican prisoners and activists and their families who are affected by addiction.

'Addiction is the elephant in the room', said Mr Austin.

'Many of our people suffer from issues as a direct result of the trauma they suffered during the conflict which includes alcoholism, drug dependency financial management problems, depression and anxiety.

'These people need and deserve the support of their comrades and the Still Imprisoned Project is there to help'.

Jim McVeigh who heads up Coiste's Advocacy and Research project described how Coiste is bringing to the fore issues around the treatment of prisoners during their arrest and conviction and their treatment while in jail.

Mr McVeigh said:

'Some of the issues that we are focusing on concern the convictions of republicans in Diplock Courts, particularly the treatment of young people'.
McVeigh highlighted the case of Derryman Charlie McMenamin whose conviction was re-examined by the Criminal Cases Review Commission (CCRC) and overturned.

He urged anyone, who was 17 or under, to bring their case to the CCRC.

Coiste's Youth Development worker Danny Murphy made an informative presentation around the work he is involved in.

'Our youth development strategy is designed to meet the specifically identified needs of the children and relatives of political former prisoners. Our youth provision is aimed at addressing the specific trauma, loss and grief experienced by young people who were affected by the prisonment of a parent.

'We are encouraging young people to get involved in our projects', said Mr Murphy.
Other areas of work that Coiste and it's satellite groups cover were outlined by various speakers including Agnes Frazer who is based in Tar Isteach in the New Lodge Road area of North Belfast.
Agnes outlined the breadth of work that she carries out to ensure that the welfare rights of former prisoners are not neglected and that former prisoners are not discriminated against.
Speaking after the information day Michael Culbert, Director of Coiste, described the day as 'a huge success' .

'We wanted to ensure that those attending this event went away with the knowledge that Coiste is working in a multi-faceted way to ensure that the welfare of former POWs is looked after.

'As many as 18,000 people from the nationalist community spent time in prison. We are out to ensure that the social, economic, legal and societal barriers faced by former POWs and their families are broken down.

'Former prisoners still face a range of obstacles and discrimination in their daily lives and Coiste is determined to break these obstacles down.'

http://www.westbelfastsinnfein.com/news/14924

should be an interesting debate

2009-11-03T11:41:00.004Z

more info here: http://ograshinnfein.blogspot.com/2009/10/public-talk-irelands-future-free-green.html

A small success

2009-11-01T15:17:00.002Z

For some time now a number of people living along Mountforde Road have lobbied me regarding the planters at the front of their homes.

The planters had become overgrown and unkempt, like many of these same ‘flowerbeds’ throughout the district the residents living beside them were tired of them and didn’t really see the need or point of them.

Last March, following a site meeting with representatives from the Housing Executive we were able to have the flowerbeds at Mountforde and several other parts of the area improved.

The work continued to have them removed; that is what the residents wanted.

Thankfully we have been able to secure the removal of the planters at Mountforde and with the planned environmental improvements at Strand Walk we are making strides in terms of improving the physical condition of the area but in particular where these planters are in such close proximity of people’s homes.

Initially the work was to improve what was there and many residents were glad that the shrubbery had been removed and that the planters lawned instead. Now, as the residents wanted, the whole planters are to be taken away. This will no doubt improve access and visibility even further.

We will continue to work with the Housing Executive in the time ahead, they are keen to make sure that the planters are replaced with something supported by residents and that will generally improve the appearance along Mountforde Road.

Further information here http://www.sebelfastsinnfein.com/news/7707

Taking to the streets of Ravenhill………

2009-10-29T11:25:00.006Z

Following an extensive Political Canvass in the Ravenhill and Rosetta area’s some months ago Sinn Fein activists in South & East Belfast have been working diligently on many of the issues raised with us on the doorsteps.

As always issues varied from door to door, some people had their own individual constituency concerns but other issues were common throughout the community; the proposed extension to Belfast City Airport, opposition to plans to develop Ormeau Park, community safety, alley-gating and anti-social issues, planning matters, policing visibility and things like dog fouling and environmental concerns in the areas.

While we work on these issues in the background it’s still important to touch base with the people who took the time to speak to us and raise matter on their doorsteps. That’s why we recently delivered update bulletins to homes in Rosetta and this time it’s Ravenhill’s turn.

Yesterday we covered Ardenlee and over the coming days we will distribute bulletins throughout that part of the city. Thankfully, yesterday bhí an aimsir linn, and that always helps to spur us on!

When the bulletins are distributed it will be available to view online at our local website @ http://www.sebelfastsinnfein.com/campaign

If you live in Ravenhill and we missed you during the canvass or if you don’t but have any issues you want to raise get in touch by contacting the office

South & East Belfast Sinn Féin
Unit 3
174 Ormeau Road
Belfast BT7 2ED
Tel: (028) 90243194
e-mail: sandebelfast@sinn-fein.ie

Our photo shows myself and David, who along with several other Sinn Féin activists distributed the latests bulletin around Ardenlee yesterday. Plenty more to cover in the coming days!)

UPDATE: You can now read the bulletin online at http://www.sebelfastsinnfein.com/campaign/15407

Community safety

2009-10-26T11:08:00.002Z

Our photo shows me delivering the Martin/Treacy Community Safety leaflet to homes along Strand Walk (Thanks to Máiréad, who was all scundered about getting in the photo!!)

Strand Walk and Vulcan Street have unfortunately seen an increase in burglaries and attempted burglaries over recent months. Many people who live along Strand Walk are pensioners and disabled people who live in the specially adapted bungalows, the others are mostly young families.

Anyone who knows Strand Walk will know that it is an isolated part of our area, mostly because of the ‘peacewall’ that runs along the front of it. Much of the shrubbery has become vastly overgrown and as residents have pointed out to me, there is very little street lighting along the path.

This is something we must work to rectify.

I have already contacted the Roads Service and the Housing Executive regarding these issues and hope we can work to create a much more visible and inviting space for the residents who live there that will hopefully go someway in making them feeler safer in their own homes.

Be certain of one thing, the people carrying out these burglaries and attempted burglaries are not representative of the Short Strand community, most of the burglaries and attempted burglaries have been opportunistic, the Strand remains a good place to live with a solid community spirit. That is what will ultimately bring an end to these burglaries and what will face down those who seek to steal, hurt and intimidate residents in their own homes.

The PSNI also have their role to play, they are more than aware of the situation in this part of the district; I have raised it with them and they were left under no illusions about it at the last DPP meeting which met in the Short Strand Community Centre.

Much work lies ahead and on Wednesday afternoon the Short Strand Partnership Board, along with local residents, will receive a presentation from Belfast City Council’s ‘re-imaging’ team for plans to environmentally improve the area, I look forward to it!

In parallel with this, for sometime now, I have been working with NIE and others to come up with ideas for the now disused electricity sub-station in Strand Close, immediately off Strand Walk. I have no doubt that this will form part of the overall environmental improvements and I look forward to hearing the thoughts and opinions of residents along Strand Walk once again.

With all of these things when an problem arises the community in the Strand band together and think of a positive thing to do, this is just another example of that and it will be exciting to see what improvements we can make for people who live in this part of the area.

Go n-éirí linn!!!

Short Strand Drug Awareness Group takes to the streets

2009-10-19T14:16:00.003+01:00

The Short Strand Drug Awareness Group was out in force last Thursday evening to distribute their latest update bulletin to every home in the area.

I, along with a number of other Sinn Féin activists joined them in helping to get the leaflets out.

Formed in 2001 the SSDAG has done some brilliant work within the community, working with the local schools as well as the Doyle Youth Club. Many young people have passed through their courses and training programmes since it began it’s work.

The Group has recently undergone a bit of a rejuvenation and Thursday night’s leaflet drop was part of that.

Like most area’s in Ireland, the Short Strand has a drug problem, it isn’t huge, it isn’t spiralling out of control, but it’s there.

The work of the SSDAG is vital in a community like ours; it highlights the issues and gives people who are suffering, or fearful or concerned about a loved one, a place to go for help, assistance and support.

I’m very proud to assist the SSDAG with it’s work and I wish them all the best for the work they have ahead of them in the time ahead.

Pictured distributing the SSDAG update leaflet in the Strand is myself with Mick O'Donnell from the Drug Awareness Group

Quote for today

2009-10-13T11:53:00.001+01:00

"I have no prouder boast than to say I am Irish and have been privileged to fight for the Irish people and for Ireland. If I have a duty I will perform it to the full with the unshakeable belief that we are a noble race and that chains and bounds have no part in us".

Short Strand residents call for Barracks site

2009-10-12T14:26:00.004+01:00

Conor Keenan (Short Strand Residents Association) Bernie McConnell (Short Strand Community Forum) Joe O'Donnell (Short Strand Partnership) Myself, Patrick Devlin (St Matthews Housing Association)

Various groups from the Short Strand gathered at the 'Lighthouse Building' in Belfast's Gasworks, the headquarters of the Department for Scoial Development.

We were there to submit a joint letter calling on Housing Minister Margaret Ritchie to acquire the land at Mountpottinger Barracks (following it's closure in August) urgently for the development of social and family homes.

The letter also called for a meeting with the Minister seeking to explore the potenial for development on the site in the very near future.

Go n-éirí linn!

Independent, International Truth Commission

2009-10-08T14:12:00.003+01:00

Sinn Féin President and west Belfast MP Gerry Adams has outlined the party's extensive and comprehensive submission on the issue of victims and truth recover.

The video is of a press conference held yesterday in Sinn Féin's Sevastapol St Offices on the Falls Road.

I think Gerry outlines the position enough in the video so i don't think I need to the same again here.

Seo chugaibh.......

preas ráiteas / press release

2009-10-07T16:40:00.001+01:00

Ó Donnghaile to seek meeting with Odyssey Trust

Sinn Féin Representative for east Belfast Niall Ó Donnghaile has given a ‘cautious welcome’ to plans by the Odyssey Trust to develop a £100 million project close to the Odyssey arena in Belfast.

Speaking after it was revealed that Trust are seeking planning permission for 800 residential units, two hotels and a promenade development Mr Ó Donnghaile said;

“Obviously any potential stimulation to the economy is welcome in the current climate, however any development of this scale must also secure the investment and support of the surrounding, established communities.

This part of the east Belfast is seeing increased levels of economic stimulation with the development of Titanic Quarter, Sirocco Quays and now the Odyssey. however it is essential that surrounding communities are consulted and involved with the process every step of the way.

For example, will the surrounding communities, some of them the most economically deprived in the north, benefit from apprenticeships for young people, or from the development of social homes? Will there be increased and improved connectivity between the Odyssey and these same communities as well as the other planned developments?

Given the fact that the Odyssey development will be financed entirely by private investment I am sure that other political and community representatives will share my concern that the project needs to be in line with the existing plans to develop the surrounding area’s and communities and not in isolation.

Sinn Féin has been to the fore in ensuring the necessary community involvement with both Titanic Quarter and Sirocco Quays and will approach this new development in the same way.

Some positives seem to be contained within the plans for the Odyssey, not least the planned leisure provision, as this is an issue which Sinn Féin has been campaigning on for some time now.

I will be in contact with the Odyssey Trust over the coming days to highlight some of these concerns and look forward to hearing their contribution.” CRÍOCH

You don’t need a weather man to know which way the wind blows…….

2009-10-07T14:51:00.006+01:00

“Erin go Bragh”

“Ireland Forever”

That is the motto, in Irish, that adorns the chain of office of the Mayor of Belfast.

I remember the first time I entered City Hall, it was on a school trip in second year of secondary school. It was an exciting adventure, as most school trips are given the fact that you are out of the classroom for a while. However there was a degree of anxiety on my part that day as well.

Like many thousands of Belfast citizens (or as former Mayor Tom Hartley calls us ‘Béal Feirstians’) I had passed the impressive building on countless occasions without ever being in it. I remember the first Republican rally to make its way to the City Hall in the 1990s; I ventured with the crowds of people from the Short Strand as we made our way proudly over the Bridge and into the centre of the city as a republican community.

That was a good day.

But even before that day and certainly since it, the City Hall has been a major site of struggle for Irish Republicans.

(A man who would be Mayor - This photo shows Gerry Adams leaving the City Hall in 1983 with Sinn Féin activists and supporters. To his immediate right is long standing Sinn Féin Councillor for Lower Falls, Tom Hartley who was only the second Sinn Féin Mayor of the city from 2008-2009)

When I entered City Hall I couldn’t help but be impressed with the architecture and appearance of the place; that feeling is very suddenly replaced with a feeling of isolation and hostility. On that day there was not one indication, not one reflection of me, my community, our culture and our history. Due to the work of some councillors that has since changed, if only in a small way. A bust of Republican revolutionary and humanitarian Belfast woman Mary-Ann McCracken now resides proudly in the City Hall; a window commemorating the great hunger in Ireland also has a prominent spot in the building.

But even yet when I enter the City Hall the trappings of British Militarism, colonialism and monarchy are in abundance. In the year 2009 that simply isn’t good enough.

The city of Belfast has and is continually changing, the people who make up our city come from many different backgrounds, many different places, this is of course a good thing that adds to the experience of Béal Feirste.

Because it is changing, the seat of civic responsibility must also change to reflect that.

Last Thursday I was in the public gallery of the council chamber, I watched Conor Maskey of Sinn Féin make the case diligently for change in the newly refurbished and now centurion City Hall. His argument won over. With the exception of the DUP, lead by MEP Diane Dodds (I was surprised to see her given how many times I witnessed her committing herself to giving up her council seat if she was elected to the European Parliament) making typical ignorant and sectarian arguments against throwing open the doors of the City Hall and allowing the space and ability for all our people to express themselves.Sinn Féin’s argument has never, ever been about taking down what is already there, we have been about creating and solidifying the conditions where the City Hall is open to, belongs to and reflects every Béal Feirstian, whether born and reared here or new to our city.

Most notably for me, as a member of the Irish speaking community here in the city, is the commitment by the Council to commission a major piece of art to be displayed in City Hall that reflects the vibrancy and history of Gaeilgeoirí in Belfast. I look forward to seeing it!

Long gone are the days when “ULSTER SAYS NO!” banners adorned the front and back of the City Hall; gone are the days when my friend and comrade Alex Maskey was the sole Sinn Féin voice in the chamber, subjected to intimidation, vile sectarian abuse and murder attempts; gone are the days when the City Hall itself was in the sole possession of a small group of wealthy, Unionist militarists.

The City Hall is now a hub of activity, with the Belfast Wheel, with the various continental markets, with its doors soon reopening to an ever changing and positive population outside. We must continue to ensure that instead of being a monolith in the possession of on side of our community it acts as a canvass for all of us to paint on.
Many people I know are still uncomfortable with entering the City Hall, I appreciate that, my answer always is to get in and make it their own. To take the lead from Alex, from Pat Beag, from Seán, from Marie and the many more in between, the people who stood their ground and made not just a building but the whole civic nature of Belfast an equal and fair playing field.

With the co-option of Caoimhín Mac Giolla Mhín on Thursday, in place of Paul Maskey who remains in the Assembly, the Chamber will once again be graced with the native language of the city it represents, Béal Feirste.

Much work lies ahead to make the City Hall, quite simply put, ‘better’.

It still remains a daunting and broadly unreflective place for many people, the work to change that must be concluded.

Every day of the year the City Hall breaches equality legislation with the flying of the Union Flag above it’s ‘Dome of Delight’. It still has various statues to British Military personnel and organisations scattered throughout its grounds, with nothing but the people who gather on its lawns on the occasional sunny days we get to indicate the different makeup of Béal Feirste.

So like I said we still have some way to go to create the conditions where the hub of Belfast acts as a beacon to reflect everyone who resides here; it’s exciting work and work that Sinn Féin is committed to!

Ar aghaidh linn, achan duine, le cheile!

Indian and Gaelic cultures to meet in Belfast City Hall

2009-10-07T12:30:00.002+01:00

more info: http://www.artsekta.org.uk/

Acht Gaeilge ANOIS!!

2009-10-06T15:58:00.007+01:00

Beidh lá ceiliúradh agus spraoi sna Margaidh ar an Domhnach seo chugainn. Tá sé ag titim amach trí bhliain i ndiaidh gealltanais a thug rialtais na Breataine go mbeadh Acht Gaeilge curtha i bhfeidhm sna Sé Chontae.

Seo imeacht difriúil óna mórshiúlta thit amach roimhe seo ach sílm gur smaoineamh den scoth é, go háirithe ina dhiaidh dom freastal ar an Mela Bhéal Feirste cúpla mí ó shin. Bhí sin ina ceiliúradh galánta de cultúr na hIndia agus na cultúrtha eile anseo sa chathair. Is ceart go raibh ceiliúradh cosúil le sin ag pobail na Gaeilge anseo fosta, leis an Acht nó gan an Acht!!

Ach ar aon nós, bígí linn agus bain sult as na himeachtaí ar fad a bheas ar fail ar an lá, beidh mé fhéin ann agus tá mé ag súil go mór leis.

Beir Bua!!