Thursday, 30 December 2010
Wednesday, 29 December 2010
Pipe bomb places New Lodge residents at risk
North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín, has slammed those who have left a device in Stratheden Street in the New Lodge area stating that they have placed local residents at risk.
“Whoever is behind this device needs to seriously consider their actions. They have placed local residents at risk, and two days before Christmas in sub zero temperatures have forced 50 families to leave their homes,” said Ní Chuilín.
“Whatever the reason behind this it is simply wrong. There is no justification and these actions are not wanted in this community.
“I am calling on whoever is responsible for this to come forward and explain the ridiculous rationale behind what they have done to this community. Further to this they need to bring these futile actions to an end.”
“Whoever is behind this device needs to seriously consider their actions. They have placed local residents at risk, and two days before Christmas in sub zero temperatures have forced 50 families to leave their homes,” said Ní Chuilín.
“Whatever the reason behind this it is simply wrong. There is no justification and these actions are not wanted in this community.
“I am calling on whoever is responsible for this to come forward and explain the ridiculous rationale behind what they have done to this community. Further to this they need to bring these futile actions to an end.”
Tuesday, 21 December 2010
SDLP vote against communities in most need - McCabe
Speaking after he demanded an emergency meeting of the group campaigning for a leisure facility on the Bone Hills, Sinn Féin Councillor Gerard McCabe has hit out at the SDLP for again joining with the DUP’s anti-equality agenda in the City Hall.
The councillor’s comments came after the SDLP voted against need being the primary factor for leisure funding.
“The SDLP's decision once again to side with the back woodsmen of the DUP Council group and vote against equality is utterly disgraceful,” said McCabe.
“Sinn Féin is battling tooth and nail for leisure services to be allocated on the basis of need. Nowhere is that need more acute than North Belfast. Nationalists cannot safely access the four major leisure centre’s surrounding this area, Ballysillan, Shankill, Grove and Valley. Years of Unionist discrimination meant a sectarian carve up when those facilities were built.
“Honestly I'm gutted by their decision. The SDLP should hang their heads in shame for opposing Sinn Féin's campaign to prioritise need when leisure resources are divided up.
“This decision by the SDLP will severely damage the prospect of getting a local leisure facility for our young people.
“All our good work has been set back years by this anti-equality vote. When challenged at Monday's campaign group's emergency meeting SDLP Councillor Nichola Mallon couldn't explain how she had done a total u-turn.
“The SDLP are on record supporting prioritising need in this campaign, yet when it came to the City Hall vote the SDLP councillors completely buckled and sided with the DUP.
“However, even at this late stage it's not too late for the SDLP to reverse their position. They did so previously when the community strongly challenged them after they voted with the DUP against changing rooms for children at the Cricky Pitch.
“I don't know how SDLP councillors can face this community when they refuse to prioritise areas like Ardoyne and the Bone in greatest need. With unionism, it's a sectarian agenda, but with the SDLP it's just in total opposition to the needs of the community and that beggars belief,” said the republican represenative.
No vote no voice
Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has called on students returning home for the Christmas and New Year holidays to make sure they are on the electoral register.
“I would encourage any student who thinks that they may not be on the electoral register to contact their local electoral office and check if they are registered to vote,” said Ní Chuilín.
“There have been problems encountered in the past for students trying to get forms signed and returned once they leave home particularly if they are going to universities in Scotland or England.
“Students who are away from home on a three-year course can also apply for a postal or proxy vote for the duration of their studies. I think this year more than ever, as we face into a winter of savage Tory cuts especially in higher education, that it’s important our students have a voice and have a vote.
“We have very serious concerns that there are thousands of young people across the North that could be disenfranchised because they are not on the register so it's vital they do not lose their democratic right to vote and now take this opportunity to get registered.”
To check if you are listed on the Register you can contact the Electoral Office on 0800 4320 712. The registration form is available in a range of languages, including Irish, on the registration page of the Electoral Office website at www.eoni.org.uk.
Monday, 20 December 2010
Kelly joins Sinn Féin activists clearing snow
Gerry Kelly, has joined teams of Sinn Féin activists in clearing and gritting paths of snow in North Belfast including Ardoyne and Newington.
Speaking from outside the Ardoyne shops where the team was well under way in clearing a path to the local shops, chapels and folds Kelly said:
“I want to thank all of the people who have come out in sub zero temperatures to help clear pathways in front of areas where local people would be most affected both here in Ardoyne and in Newington.
“We have cleared and gritted the pathway in front of Ardoyne shops and have a team of volunteers who are also clearing the path to the local Holy Cross and Sacred Heart chapels in advance of Sunday services.
“We have also cleared the path at the nearby Fold in order to give the elderly living there access to and from their homes.
“On Friday as the snow began to fall our office, through our Councillors had contacted the Roads Service and requested grit to be left in several areas in advance and this delivery really has made all the difference.
“This truly is a community effort with all ages turning up to help. I would like to take this opportunity to remind people at these times to check on elderly neighbours to see if they need any help or just a bit of company as many are housebound due to the snow.”
Speaking from outside the Ardoyne shops where the team was well under way in clearing a path to the local shops, chapels and folds Kelly said:
“I want to thank all of the people who have come out in sub zero temperatures to help clear pathways in front of areas where local people would be most affected both here in Ardoyne and in Newington.
“We have cleared and gritted the pathway in front of Ardoyne shops and have a team of volunteers who are also clearing the path to the local Holy Cross and Sacred Heart chapels in advance of Sunday services.
“We have also cleared the path at the nearby Fold in order to give the elderly living there access to and from their homes.
“On Friday as the snow began to fall our office, through our Councillors had contacted the Roads Service and requested grit to be left in several areas in advance and this delivery really has made all the difference.
“This truly is a community effort with all ages turning up to help. I would like to take this opportunity to remind people at these times to check on elderly neighbours to see if they need any help or just a bit of company as many are housebound due to the snow.”
Friday, 17 December 2010
Local MLAs in Christmas visit to older citizens
Residents of Camberwell Court off the Limestone Road welcomed Sinn Féin MLAs Gerry Kelly and Carál Ní Chuilín to their fold this week to talk about the problems and issues facing the North's elderly population. The visit came after the Stormont Assembly agreed last week to legislate for an Older People's Commissioner.
Gerry Kelly said speaking to the Camberwell Court residents added to his determination to see the commissioner implemented fully.
"It's vital that older people have a voice at the heart of government and we are here today to clearly spell out how the new Older People’s Commissioner will do just that," said the Sinn Féin junior minister.
"The commissioner will give older people a role in making decisions that will directly affect their lives. Aging is a key issue for the community and involving older people in shaping government policy is vital.”
During the visit the two MLAs and local councillor Conor Maskey handed over gifts to the elderly residents.
"We try as often as possible to get around these older peoples dwellings and Christmas seems to be a good time. We are always warmly welcomed and having worked on the issue of the Commissioner personally I'm delighted to bring this Christmas present here," said Gerry Kelly.
"I am also calling for everyone to make an extra special effort looking out for your older neighbours during the freeze and over the Christmas holidays. A few minutes of your time can make all the difference to someone that is isolated or house bound. Finally ensure you have all your benefits sorted and don't go cold unnecessarily."
De Brún urges MEPs to stop EU funding to Israeli Military
Bairbre de Brún MEP has today urged her colleagues in the European Parliament to vote to end the European Union's funding towards Israeli companies which engage in military activities while Israel continues to break international human rights law.
An amendment by Ms de Brún put forward to the EU's budget, which was co-signed by 40 Members of the European Parliament from different countries and political groups states, "No company which conducts research for the Israeli military will receive funding under this title while Israel fails to comply with international human rights standards."
Speaking from Strasbourg Ms de Brún said "Part of this funding, which is administered under the heading of 'Directly financed research operations' continues to go towards companies such as Israel Aerospace Industries, a major supplier of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and manufacturer of the ‘Heron’ unmanned aerial vehicle which was used extensively in the siege on Gaza. They receive EUR 4 million of EU funding"
"We must make sure, that while Israel ignores international human rights law, the EU sets an example and gives no money to companies which engage in either military research or the production of weapons."
An amendment by Ms de Brún put forward to the EU's budget, which was co-signed by 40 Members of the European Parliament from different countries and political groups states, "No company which conducts research for the Israeli military will receive funding under this title while Israel fails to comply with international human rights standards."
Speaking from Strasbourg Ms de Brún said "Part of this funding, which is administered under the heading of 'Directly financed research operations' continues to go towards companies such as Israel Aerospace Industries, a major supplier of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and manufacturer of the ‘Heron’ unmanned aerial vehicle which was used extensively in the siege on Gaza. They receive EUR 4 million of EU funding"
"We must make sure, that while Israel ignores international human rights law, the EU sets an example and gives no money to companies which engage in either military research or the production of weapons."
De Brún calls for stronger Climate Change targets
Bairbre de Brún MEP spoke this week during a debate in the European Parliament in Strasbourg on the need to build on what was agreed at the UN climate talks in Cancún at the weekend.
Ms de Brún who was part of the European Parliament's official delegation at the United Nations Climate change talks said,
"What has been agreed so far is welcome, but we should not fool ourselves; there is a long way to go yet to achieve the legally binding global deal that will really tackle the challenge of climate change.
"The progress made at COP16 was vital, but we cannot rest on our laurels. Cancún should inspire us to work towards targets that are much firmer and clearer and, most importantly, that are legally binding.
" Europe must lead the way in terms of emissions reductions targets and transparency on climate financing.
" We must work together with both industrialised and developing countries for a more 'solid' deal in South Africa next year.”
Ms de Brún who was part of the European Parliament's official delegation at the United Nations Climate change talks said,
"What has been agreed so far is welcome, but we should not fool ourselves; there is a long way to go yet to achieve the legally binding global deal that will really tackle the challenge of climate change.
"The progress made at COP16 was vital, but we cannot rest on our laurels. Cancún should inspire us to work towards targets that are much firmer and clearer and, most importantly, that are legally binding.
" Europe must lead the way in terms of emissions reductions targets and transparency on climate financing.
" We must work together with both industrialised and developing countries for a more 'solid' deal in South Africa next year.”
Derelict building a hazard and nuisance - Lavery
North Belfast Sinn Féin Councillor Danny Lavery has warned young people a life could be lost unless they stay away from a derelict building in which they are taking drugs and lighting fires.
Lavery said youths are gathering at the site of the former North Belfast Employment Centre on Oldpark Terrace and are making lives a misery for local residents.
"The young people are creeping in through a gap in the fence, sniffing glue and lighting fires and generally involving themselves in antisocial behaviour and it has to stop. By setting fires someone could get killed or seriously hurt.
"They have to stop going into the site now before real damage is done. The site is sitting derelict and is no longer in use, however whoever owns it still needs to do their bit to ensure it is secure and intruders cannot get in.
“I am trying to find the owner of the site - because it isn’t the Department of Employment and Learning - to see if it can be secured,” said Lavery.
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
De Brún calls for stronger Climate Change targets
Bairbre de Brún MEP spoke today during a debate in the European Parliament in Strasbourg on the need to build on what was agreed at the UN climate talks in Cancún at the weekend.
Ms de Brún who was part of the European Parliament's official delegation at the United Nations Climate change talks said,
"What has been agreed so far is welcome, but we should not fool ourselves; there is a long way to go yet to achieve the legally binding global deal that will really tackle the challenge of climate change.
"The progress made at COP16 was vital, but we cannot rest on our laurels. Cancún should inspire us to work towards targets that are much firmer and clearer and, most importantly, that are legally binding.
" Europe must lead the way in terms of emissions reductions targets and transparency on climate financing.
" We must work together with both industrialised and developing countries for a more 'solid' deal in South Africa next year.”
Ms de Brún who was part of the European Parliament's official delegation at the United Nations Climate change talks said,
"What has been agreed so far is welcome, but we should not fool ourselves; there is a long way to go yet to achieve the legally binding global deal that will really tackle the challenge of climate change.
"The progress made at COP16 was vital, but we cannot rest on our laurels. Cancún should inspire us to work towards targets that are much firmer and clearer and, most importantly, that are legally binding.
" Europe must lead the way in terms of emissions reductions targets and transparency on climate financing.
" We must work together with both industrialised and developing countries for a more 'solid' deal in South Africa next year.”
Thursday, 9 December 2010
In defence of our public sector
BY Gerry Kelly
In the current climate it seems to be the order of the day for some commentators to casually dismiss the public sector as wasteful and ripe for sweeping cuts. However, as I walked freezing up Ardoyne Road in this 'current climate' very early on Saturday morning, I was amazed by the many care-workers out and about tramping through the snow.
Perhaps it's the extremes of weather or the run up to Christmas that draws our particular attention to those who toil away quietly tending to our most vulnerable. Snow, darkness, freezing fog, icy footpaths and punishing workloads are the norm. Yet every time I turn on my car radio all I hear is the public sector under attack.
As an MLA I deal daily with constituents most distressing experiences when the public sector has let them down. That's the nature of political life, consistently helping to tackle failings in the system and ensuring they are put right as we strive for the delivery of first class services.
However I want to take this opportunity to praise the dedication of our public sector workers. They shouldn't only get the headlines when something goes wrong. Nurses, public transport workers, teachers, cleaners, fire and rescue workers, porters, home-helps, council workers etc.
The list is huge and these are the glue, along with the community and voluntary sector, that hold society together.
I'm sure you have heard countless times of the little acts of kindness people have received above and beyond the call of duty from public sector workers on the front line under extreme pressure. Be it a kind word, a cup of tea or a quick message. For many older people this can be the difference between life and death and the only personal contact they receive from one day to the next.
Not to mention the daily work done while taking verbal and physical abuse, tending to the bereaved or putting life and limb on the line. Is anyone seriously suggesting this is a wasteful area ripe for sweeping cuts?
Sinn Féin have set out our stall to defend front line services. Nowhere is this more important than deprived areas of North Belfast. The Mater Hospital alone is our biggest employer and a massive community resource, which needs to be cherished and defended by us all.
The morale of public sector workers across Ireland is at a very low point as they are forced to pay the bill for the rampant unregulated greed of the free marketeers.
Those of us old enough to remember the last time this savage Tory agenda was common currency will recall their obsession with the price of everything and the value of nothing. For many of our workers the public sector is a vocation not just a job.
Encouraging jobs and growth in private industry must be complementary to investing in our public sector. Be in no doubt this is a battle of ideologies. The Tory's and their local political cohorts intend to use this recession to bring in a raft of anti-worker policies that in more normal circumstances they wouldn't try.
It's building communities verses ‘get on your bike’. It's rights verses charity. Its society verses the cult of individualism. In the current Assembly negotiations to produce a budget, Sinn Féin will be strongly defending workers on the front line.
Stealing Christmas presents from disabled children beggars belief - Lavery
Sinn Féin’s Danny Lavery said he was “utterly disgusted” at a break-in where wrapped Christmas presents which were to be given to severely disabled children at their festive party next week have been stolen.
The presents for the children, some of whom are life limited, were just part of a haul taken from the 174 Trust at Duncairn Avenue at the weekend. A wheelchair valued at £600 and specially adapted computer equipment was also taken in the Saturday night/Sunday morning theft.
The weekend raid was the second break-in at the centre in less than a week and the sixth time in two months that the charity has been the target of anti-social behaviour.
“To steal Christmas presents that were gathered for these disabled children at this community centre beggars belief,” said Danny.
“I'm appealing to anyone that has any knowledge of this break in to come forward. There's little point appealing to the thieves but if anyone is offered stolen toys it's not too late to rescue Christmas for these children.”
He said North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly met the PSNI at a senior level last week to hold them to account for their poor record in North Belfast on burglaries.
“We are demanding swift action and a sharp policing focus to arrest these gangs and bring them before the courts. We all must rally around community workers in this facility who are doing such great work and ensure the burglars are caught.”
Police are appealing to anyone who has information in relation to this incident to contact them on 0845 600 8000. Information about crime can also be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
Grit box needed for Glengormley
Local Sinn Féin activist Gerry O’Reilly said it is essential that a grit box is put in place near Farmley Shopping Centre where the cold spell have made it nearly impossible for pedestrians to walk on the footpath.
“I have been speaking to several people who have been complaining about the state of the footpaths in Glengormley,” said Gerry.
“It is like an ice-rink and I have received a lot of reports of people slipping and falling. There are no grit boxes in the near vicinity and I am calling on the Roads Service to put a grit box here before someone gets badly hurt.”
He also expressed a concern that people were forced to walk on the road to avoid the footpath. “This is quite alarming and is causing another hazard. People need to be aware of the dangers of ice on the footpath, particularly the elderly and young families,” he said.
£1million for centenaries not inclusive
North Belfast Sinn Féin Councillor Conor Maskey said the decision to £1million of ratepayers money on commemorating centenary events in 2012 without firm knowledge on how it will be spent was ‘not inclusive’ as a similar level of funding may not be forthcoming for other events.
The SDLP voted along with Unionists to spend the £1m on events such as Belfast city centenary and the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.
“We completely disagree with the SDLP that the unionist parties in Belfast City Council have some new sense of appreciation of Irish culture and history and it is because of this vote that we are determined to ring fence monies for important centenaries around core principles which everyone can agree,” said Conor.
Sinn Féin councilors abstained from the voting and said the cost and range of events for 2012 hadn’t been agreed and that the SDLP were blindly following the DUP.
The SDLP voted along with Unionists to spend the £1m on events such as Belfast city centenary and the anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic.
“We completely disagree with the SDLP that the unionist parties in Belfast City Council have some new sense of appreciation of Irish culture and history and it is because of this vote that we are determined to ring fence monies for important centenaries around core principles which everyone can agree,” said Conor.
Sinn Féin councilors abstained from the voting and said the cost and range of events for 2012 hadn’t been agreed and that the SDLP were blindly following the DUP.
Excellent speech by Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty on the 26-county budget
Cut and paste RTE link below
http://www.rte.ie/news/av/2010/1207/media-2867737.html
http://www.rte.ie/news/av/2010/1207/media-2867737.html
Monday, 6 December 2010
Ní Chuilín comments after north Belfast power shortage
Sinn Féin MLA for north Belfast Carál Ní Chuilín has commended community workers and NIE Staff after a major power shortage affected homes across the constituency.
“As a result of this evening’s power cut at one stage almost 1300 homes were left without power. Given the adverse weather this is obviously a cause of great concern particularly for families and elderly people,” said Ní Chuilín.
“I want to commend and thank the efforts put in by NIE workers to restore power to the effected homes and pay tribute to north Belfast community worker Malachy Mulgrew for taking to the streets to assist the effected residents.”
“As a result of this evening’s power cut at one stage almost 1300 homes were left without power. Given the adverse weather this is obviously a cause of great concern particularly for families and elderly people,” said Ní Chuilín.
“I want to commend and thank the efforts put in by NIE workers to restore power to the effected homes and pay tribute to north Belfast community worker Malachy Mulgrew for taking to the streets to assist the effected residents.”
Thursday, 2 December 2010
Make a Stand! Protest the cuts and bank bailout
By Sam Baker, West Belfast Sinn Féin chairperson
People across the island - and across the world - are stunned at the brazen actions this week of the Fianna Fáil/Green coalition in Dublin in signing away the state to the IMF and the European Central Bank.
A government with no mandate and no political authority has signed a deal that amounts to economic treason. It condemns this and future generations of Irish people to economic bondage for many years to come. And this is being done not to address the state's deficit problem - but to shore up a corrupt banking system and protect international financial gamblers.
The crisis in the south is unprecedented. People have been infuriated by the actions of this government over the past three years. They want change.
The landslide result in the Donegal South West by-election on November 25, which Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty won with almost 40% of the vote, shows that people are responding to our message of a better, fairer way. Sinn Féin is the only voice in the Dáil that is breaking the consensus for cuts.
Gerry Adams's announcement that he will seek election to the Dáil in the General Election has also energized and raised the profile of the Sinn Féin alternative.
And the massive rally in Dublin on Saturday - where more than 100,000 people protested the bank bailout and cuts in one of the biggest protests in the state's history - shows that people are prepared to fight for change.
It is important for the West Belfast community to stay informed and aware of the travesty that is unfolding in the south. It is important that we recognise the implications that this has not just for communities in the south but for the entire Irish nation. And it is important that we stand with the people suffering the impact of this attack and fight for an all-Ireland alternative.
We all need to stand up and be counted. West Belfast Sinn Féin is urging the local community to join the national mobilisation in Dublin against this government's budget and its failed economic and political policies. Make a stand!
* Sinn Féin National Mobilisation: Make a Stand - There is a Better Way. Saturday December 4, 1.30pm at Parnell Square, Dublin. Main speaker: Gerry Adams. Free buses from Belfast (Colin, Falls Road, Andersonstown and Ballymurphy), leaving at 11am. Phone Connolly House on 02890 808 404 to book a spot on the bus
Full story: http://www.westbelfastsinnfein.com/news/18216
People across the island - and across the world - are stunned at the brazen actions this week of the Fianna Fáil/Green coalition in Dublin in signing away the state to the IMF and the European Central Bank.
A government with no mandate and no political authority has signed a deal that amounts to economic treason. It condemns this and future generations of Irish people to economic bondage for many years to come. And this is being done not to address the state's deficit problem - but to shore up a corrupt banking system and protect international financial gamblers.
The crisis in the south is unprecedented. People have been infuriated by the actions of this government over the past three years. They want change.
The landslide result in the Donegal South West by-election on November 25, which Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty won with almost 40% of the vote, shows that people are responding to our message of a better, fairer way. Sinn Féin is the only voice in the Dáil that is breaking the consensus for cuts.
Gerry Adams's announcement that he will seek election to the Dáil in the General Election has also energized and raised the profile of the Sinn Féin alternative.
And the massive rally in Dublin on Saturday - where more than 100,000 people protested the bank bailout and cuts in one of the biggest protests in the state's history - shows that people are prepared to fight for change.
It is important for the West Belfast community to stay informed and aware of the travesty that is unfolding in the south. It is important that we recognise the implications that this has not just for communities in the south but for the entire Irish nation. And it is important that we stand with the people suffering the impact of this attack and fight for an all-Ireland alternative.
We all need to stand up and be counted. West Belfast Sinn Féin is urging the local community to join the national mobilisation in Dublin against this government's budget and its failed economic and political policies. Make a stand!
* Sinn Féin National Mobilisation: Make a Stand - There is a Better Way. Saturday December 4, 1.30pm at Parnell Square, Dublin. Main speaker: Gerry Adams. Free buses from Belfast (Colin, Falls Road, Andersonstown and Ballymurphy), leaving at 11am. Phone Connolly House on 02890 808 404 to book a spot on the bus
Full story: http://www.westbelfastsinnfein.com/news/18216
Trade union and Rural Women hosted in Brussels by de Brún
Sinn Féin MEP, Bairbre de Brún will this week put a focus on gender equality issues and the role played by women in rural development when she hosts a 25 strong joint delegation from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the north's Rural Women's Network to the European Parliament in Brussels.
The women activists will tomorrow (Wednesday) meet with officials from the European Commission and the European Congress of Trade Unions on a range of issues including funding opportunities for transnational programmes as well as the dire consequences for public services across Ireland if budgets are cut. Speaking in advance of tomorrow's (Wednesday) meetings, Ms de Brún said:
"I am delighted to have been able to make this visit possible.
"The 25 strong women's delegation from Ireland will focus on the need to advance the gender equality agenda across the European Union in tackling the deep economic crisis that we now face.
"Women are playing a leading role, especially in rural communities, in attempting to build vibrant local communities and economies where people are not forced to emigrate in search of work, where transport links are improved and where there is access to proper public services such as health.
"The message being delivered in Brussels this week by women activists from across Ireland is that now more than ever we must move toward a more economically, socially and environmentally sustainable economic system."
Wednesday, 1 December 2010
Women POWs mark 30 years since 1980 Hunger Strike
Upwards of 25 Republican Ex-Prisoners returned to Armagh Women’s Gaol to mark the 30th Anniversary of the 1980 Hunger Strike.
Women from across the Six Counties reunited today to mark this historic event in Republican history. They will be joined by former Armagh Chaplain Fr Raymond Murray and Fermanagh and South Tyrone MP Michelle Gildernew.
Speaking afterwards former Hunger Striker Mary Doyle said;
“This is obviously an emotional time for Republicans the length and breath of Ireland and beyond as we mark 30 years since the 1980/81 Hunger Strikes.
It was a very humbling experience for the women POWs, who were imprisoned at the time, to come together here today and mark this important occasion.
When political status was withdrawn from republican prisoners in 1976, republican women in Armagh Prison reacted with a work strike and other acts of resistance. Punishment included strip searches, raids, beatings and the loss of educational opportunities and remission.
In February 1980 the prison administration attacked the women political prisoners, assaulting them and withdrawing toilet facilities forcing the women to embark on a no-wash protest; in response we were locked in our cells for 23 hours a day as punishment.
After seven Comrades in Long Kesh embarked on a hunger strike on October 27, 1980, they were joined by myself, Mairéad Nugent and Mairéad Farrell on December 1.
We felt it vitally important to return here today to remember those times and the journey we have travelled on since then and to take the opportunity to remember those comrades and friends who took a stand during the darkest days of struggle and are no longer here with us.”
Prospects for Cancún and beyond' Bairbre de Brún MEP
Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún will this week be travelling to Cancún as part of the European Parliament's official delegation to the United Nations Climate Summit, which takes place from November 29 to December 10.
Sinn Féin and its partners in the European United Left/Nordic Green Left have campaigned strongly within the EU for a strong, legally binding global climate treaty that is based on science; that recognises the differing obligations between developing and industrialised countries; and that provides adequate levels of assistance to developing countries for adaptation and mitigation.
The MEP will be speaking at a seminar on the climate summit in Belfast, hosted by South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey, before departing for the conference.
James Orr from Friends of the Earth and Gary McFarlane from Stop Climate Chaos will also speak at the seminar.
Speaking in advance of Friday's seminar, Ms de Brún said: "I will work with environmental NGOs and local communities to keep up the pressure for an ambitious climate deal that really counts for the world's poor."
"I look forward to discussing the steps that we need to take now in the Assembly, in the EU and in the wider international community.....
"The global economic crisis cannot and must not be used as an excuse for inaction or for denying climate justice. On the contrary, developing a low-carbon economy is our most promising path out of the present crisis."
The seminar will be held at 11.30am on Friday December 3 in the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast (registration at 11am). All welcome. RSVP to Conor Keenan at Alex Maskey MLA's office on conor.keenan@sinn-fein.ie or on 02890 243 194.
Sinn Féin and its partners in the European United Left/Nordic Green Left have campaigned strongly within the EU for a strong, legally binding global climate treaty that is based on science; that recognises the differing obligations between developing and industrialised countries; and that provides adequate levels of assistance to developing countries for adaptation and mitigation.
The MEP will be speaking at a seminar on the climate summit in Belfast, hosted by South Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Alex Maskey, before departing for the conference.
James Orr from Friends of the Earth and Gary McFarlane from Stop Climate Chaos will also speak at the seminar.
Speaking in advance of Friday's seminar, Ms de Brún said: "I will work with environmental NGOs and local communities to keep up the pressure for an ambitious climate deal that really counts for the world's poor."
"I look forward to discussing the steps that we need to take now in the Assembly, in the EU and in the wider international community.....
"The global economic crisis cannot and must not be used as an excuse for inaction or for denying climate justice. On the contrary, developing a low-carbon economy is our most promising path out of the present crisis."
The seminar will be held at 11.30am on Friday December 3 in the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast (registration at 11am). All welcome. RSVP to Conor Keenan at Alex Maskey MLA's office on conor.keenan@sinn-fein.ie or on 02890 243 194.
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
Sinn Féin motion calls for Neighbourhood Renewal funding to be secured
A Sinn Féin motion calling on the Social Development Minister to 'bring forward proposals to secure Neighbourhood Renewal funding beyond March 2011' will be debating in the Assembly Chamber this afternoon.
The motion comes after a protest by Neighbourhood Renewal groups at Stormont last week.
Speaking ahead of the debate DSD spokesperson Carál Ní Chuilín MLA said;
“The Neighbourhood Renewal programme has become a key element on service provision in many of our most deprived communities. The delivery of childcare, health and education schemes, and countless other frontline services however is under threat due to funding realities.
"These are funding realities that can be addressed. As this cycle of funding comes to a close in March there is an onus on the main funding body, the department of Social Development and the Minister, Alex Attwood, to step up to the mark and save these essential frontline services.
"These are services that operate within these communities, on their doorstep and are some of the most accessible for those who are in need of them.
"What Alex Atwood as Minister must do now is to ensure that Neighbourhood Renewal will be included in his budget beyond March 2011. To do any less will be depriving communities of much needed and utilised services.
I have no doubt that the many groups and people involved will be watching today’s debate with keen interest.”
The motion comes after a protest by Neighbourhood Renewal groups at Stormont last week.
Speaking ahead of the debate DSD spokesperson Carál Ní Chuilín MLA said;
“The Neighbourhood Renewal programme has become a key element on service provision in many of our most deprived communities. The delivery of childcare, health and education schemes, and countless other frontline services however is under threat due to funding realities.
"These are funding realities that can be addressed. As this cycle of funding comes to a close in March there is an onus on the main funding body, the department of Social Development and the Minister, Alex Attwood, to step up to the mark and save these essential frontline services.
"These are services that operate within these communities, on their doorstep and are some of the most accessible for those who are in need of them.
"What Alex Atwood as Minister must do now is to ensure that Neighbourhood Renewal will be included in his budget beyond March 2011. To do any less will be depriving communities of much needed and utilised services.
I have no doubt that the many groups and people involved will be watching today’s debate with keen interest.”
Friday, 26 November 2010
Kelly welcomes Parades Commission determination on Shankill Star
Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast, Gerry Kelly, has welcomed the decision to bar the loyalist Shankill Star flute band from marching past the Dales, Mountainview and Ardoyne by the Parades Commission.
“I welcome the fact that the Parades Commission has taken the decision to bar this loyalist band, which is in essence a tribute to Brian Robinson, from walking past the area where he murdered Paddy McKenna. It is the right decision," said Kelly.
“I am however disappointed in Tommy Cheevers approach to this, with him showing no sensitivity or regards to the victims of Brian Robinson. Most sensible people would acknowledge the suffering that has been caused by the application this band had made to march here and would rightfully oppose it on these grounds
“Instead of Tommy Cheevers making comments which could exacerbate the situation what we need to see is the Orange Order sitting down and talking with residents.”
“I welcome the fact that the Parades Commission has taken the decision to bar this loyalist band, which is in essence a tribute to Brian Robinson, from walking past the area where he murdered Paddy McKenna. It is the right decision," said Kelly.
“I am however disappointed in Tommy Cheevers approach to this, with him showing no sensitivity or regards to the victims of Brian Robinson. Most sensible people would acknowledge the suffering that has been caused by the application this band had made to march here and would rightfully oppose it on these grounds
“Instead of Tommy Cheevers making comments which could exacerbate the situation what we need to see is the Orange Order sitting down and talking with residents.”
Friday, 19 November 2010
Adams standing in Louth will provide a new dimension to all-Ireland project - Kelly
North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA and Executive Minister Gerry Kelly said Gerry Adams decision to give up his West Belfast seat to stand in Louth will provide a “new dimension to our all Ireland project”.
Gerry Kelly said the decision proves that Sinn Féin is an all-Ireland party and can gain support throughout the island.
“Gerry Adams is Sinn Féin's party President North, South East and West of Ireland and once again has demonstrated that by example,” he said.
“On a personal and emotional level this is a hugely significant development for Gerry and his family and the West Belfast community. However, politically this is a natural extension of our party leader’s work across Ireland.”
At a meeting in West Belfast earlier this week, former hungerstriker Pat Sheehan was chosen as Gerry’s successor as MLA.
“The republican project remains on track in West Belfast with the selection of Pat Sheehan who is replacing Gerry in the Assembly,” said Kelly.
“Pat is a more than capable activist with a long track record of work on republican projects both at home and abroad.
“Being a former hunger striker myself, I know that Pat's history on the 1981 hunger strike will resonate with the core Sinn Féin support, but it will be his present and future work that will earn Pat the loyalty of the West Belfast community.”
“This is a time of economic crisis and the Sinn Féin vision of the way forward is different to any other political party across the island,” he said,
“We have been proved 100 per cent right on the economy whilst the so-called economic and political experts that caused this crisis branded us economic illiterates.
“But sadly it's the ordinary people that are being forced to foot the bill for their corruption, incompetence and reckless greed. Whilst Gerry Adams standing in Louth will provide a new dimension to our all-Ireland project, it's our political vision and our work on the ground on a daily basis that will prove decisive.
“We remain the only 32-county party with a strategy for delivering national sovereignty and personal sacrifice isn't anything new to republican activists like Gerry Adams.”
Councillor calls for empties houses to be sorted
Local Sinn Féin Councillor Danny Lavery has repeated his call for the Minister for Social Development to explain what action he will take to resolve the issue of vacant properties in North Belfast.
Lavery called on Minister Alex Attwood to intervene to ensure that properties are not allowed to sit empty while families are forced to live in hostels.
“Last week the Minister came back with an answer about work being carried out in areas such as the Long Streets, but he did not answer the question of what action he is taking around all the houses sitting vacant while families sit on the waiting list,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.
“It is up to the Minister to allocate funding to the Housing Executive and housing associations to ensure that once a property is sitting empty any necessary work is carried out right away and a family put into it.
“We have a situation now where a house is vacated and it is left empty, then vandals get in and destroy the place and it costs more in the long run trying to make it habitable again. There is no need for houses sitting boarded-up and it is up to the Minister to ensure the funding is there to make this possible,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.
Lavery called on Minister Alex Attwood to intervene to ensure that properties are not allowed to sit empty while families are forced to live in hostels.
“Last week the Minister came back with an answer about work being carried out in areas such as the Long Streets, but he did not answer the question of what action he is taking around all the houses sitting vacant while families sit on the waiting list,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.
“It is up to the Minister to allocate funding to the Housing Executive and housing associations to ensure that once a property is sitting empty any necessary work is carried out right away and a family put into it.
“We have a situation now where a house is vacated and it is left empty, then vandals get in and destroy the place and it costs more in the long run trying to make it habitable again. There is no need for houses sitting boarded-up and it is up to the Minister to ensure the funding is there to make this possible,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.
Friday, 12 November 2010
Action needed on derelict houses - Lavery
Sinn Féin North Belfast councillor Danny Lavery has demanded the Social Development Minister take action over the number of homes in the area lying vacant when the housing waiting list is so long.
Danny Lavery said homes are left boarded up and derelict in much-sought-after areas of North Belfast whilst hundreds of people languish on the housing waiting list.
“All these houses are sitting empty and useless when a family could be in there making it a home,” said Lavery.
“There are around 800 people on the housing waiting list and the only way the list is going to go down is if all the available houses are made use of. What is the point in derelict homes?
“It is depriving a family of a house and it is not good for the community to see homes in their street all boarded up. North Belfast has some of the worst housing problems in the North and things are not going to get better if there are good homes going to waste.”
The Sinn Féin man called on DSD Minister Alex Attwood to take action on the empty properties.
“I am calling on the minister to make sure there is something being done about this, we all know the situation in North Belfast and action needs to be taken.
“Some of these houses have been left there months and I am calling for something to be done so that families who need them can be given the housing they deserve.”
Housing Executive needs to deliver on its obligations
By Carál Ní Chuilín
As a public representative it never fails to make me angry when I see so many much-needed houses lie empty and destroyed as we continue to fight tooth and nail for every single decent family home.
Clearly the Housing Executive is finding it impossible to deliver on its obligations to eradicate generations of homelessness and eliminate the waiting list – both of which continue to outstrip need. Nowhere is this more stark than here in North Belfast.
Sinn Féin has proposed innovative and imaginative alternative funding mechanisms to resolve this dilemma.
In our Economic document “There Is A Better Way” Sinn Féin has proposed the establishment of a not–for–profit Social Housing Agency with the capability of borrowing from amongst other sources – the European Bank. According to a 2009/10 analysis the Housing Executive generated a rental income of £240million while having out goings for maintenance, management and overheads of £180million. This leaves a surplus of £60million available for investment and housing construction.
Combined with the hugely significant efforts Sinn Féin Ministers have made to direct resources to housing through the Assembly Executive, Sinn Féin is proposing a target of 2,500 new homes per annum over the next four years.
We strongly argue that the ongoing review of the Housing Executive provides a real opportunity to bring forward this major re-structuring of the finances of the HE whilst reinforcing it’s current crucial social remit .
Clearly an innovative approach such as this is required.
The fall off in capital receipts in recent years has impacted on the ability of the Housing Executive to fund the building of sufficient houses to meet the soaring need.
It has also resulted in a serious backlog on vital maintenance and improvements to homes, which often lie empty to be vandalized beyond cost effective repair.
It is estimated that there are 5000 dwellings, which require significant refurbishment. All this at a time when in North Belfast alone there are in the region of 600 people living in crisis in hostels.
While the primary purpose of the Sinn Féin proposal is to address homelessness and the waiting list, a number of studies have identified investment in housing as having a positive benefit in terms of Health and Education which would ease the pressure on these two important areas of huge public spending.
It would obviously have a very significant impact on the construction industry and employment in general and act as a crucial driver in economic recovery.
In effect what we are proposing is the creation of a Social Housing Agency governed by a board consisting of equal numbers drawn from Housing Executive, Tenant Representatives and independents.
This type of governance would have the effect of the body being classified as non-public sector and therefore allow it to borrow from private sources.
It would also provide tenants with a real sense of ownership by involving them in the management arrangements of the Agency – involvement that isn't currently available to them.
It isn't rocket science, investing in family homes and jobs in construction and maintainence is the clear way forward not just in terms of social justice but as an economic driver.
Sinn Féin have set out our clear vision and grasped the initiative with imaginative and constructive proposals whilst challenging the other parties to join us on the firm ground of strongly opposing the Tory social engineering of slash and burn politics.
As a public representative it never fails to make me angry when I see so many much-needed houses lie empty and destroyed as we continue to fight tooth and nail for every single decent family home.
Clearly the Housing Executive is finding it impossible to deliver on its obligations to eradicate generations of homelessness and eliminate the waiting list – both of which continue to outstrip need. Nowhere is this more stark than here in North Belfast.
Sinn Féin has proposed innovative and imaginative alternative funding mechanisms to resolve this dilemma.
In our Economic document “There Is A Better Way” Sinn Féin has proposed the establishment of a not–for–profit Social Housing Agency with the capability of borrowing from amongst other sources – the European Bank. According to a 2009/10 analysis the Housing Executive generated a rental income of £240million while having out goings for maintenance, management and overheads of £180million. This leaves a surplus of £60million available for investment and housing construction.
Combined with the hugely significant efforts Sinn Féin Ministers have made to direct resources to housing through the Assembly Executive, Sinn Féin is proposing a target of 2,500 new homes per annum over the next four years.
We strongly argue that the ongoing review of the Housing Executive provides a real opportunity to bring forward this major re-structuring of the finances of the HE whilst reinforcing it’s current crucial social remit .
Clearly an innovative approach such as this is required.
The fall off in capital receipts in recent years has impacted on the ability of the Housing Executive to fund the building of sufficient houses to meet the soaring need.
It has also resulted in a serious backlog on vital maintenance and improvements to homes, which often lie empty to be vandalized beyond cost effective repair.
It is estimated that there are 5000 dwellings, which require significant refurbishment. All this at a time when in North Belfast alone there are in the region of 600 people living in crisis in hostels.
While the primary purpose of the Sinn Féin proposal is to address homelessness and the waiting list, a number of studies have identified investment in housing as having a positive benefit in terms of Health and Education which would ease the pressure on these two important areas of huge public spending.
It would obviously have a very significant impact on the construction industry and employment in general and act as a crucial driver in economic recovery.
In effect what we are proposing is the creation of a Social Housing Agency governed by a board consisting of equal numbers drawn from Housing Executive, Tenant Representatives and independents.
This type of governance would have the effect of the body being classified as non-public sector and therefore allow it to borrow from private sources.
It would also provide tenants with a real sense of ownership by involving them in the management arrangements of the Agency – involvement that isn't currently available to them.
It isn't rocket science, investing in family homes and jobs in construction and maintainence is the clear way forward not just in terms of social justice but as an economic driver.
Sinn Féin have set out our clear vision and grasped the initiative with imaginative and constructive proposals whilst challenging the other parties to join us on the firm ground of strongly opposing the Tory social engineering of slash and burn politics.
Sinn Féin battle for inclusive strategy to celebrate significant anniversaries at Belfast City Council
Sinn Féin has criticized the SDLP for ignoring important centenaries such as the 100th anniversary of the 1916 Rising and other important historical events and siding with the DUP in a vote to only fund events to mark the centenary of 1912.
Last week, at a special meeting of the Development Committee, Council officers proposed that £1million gets ring-fenced (£600k from existing budgets) for a range of commemorative events relating to 2012.
Sinn Féin, in the context of the uncertain economic climate and a lack of detail as to where the £1m would be spent, asked for deferment on this proposal until there were in-depth party briefings.
Sinn Féin argued strongly the need for an inclusive look at a Decade of Centenaries of intense political significance on this island including James Connolly’s role in Belfast prior to 1916, The Somme, the 400th anniversary of The Plantation and The First Dáil as well as other significant events in the time ahead.
Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Conor Maskey said;
“We felt that our party’s suggestions to have greater debate around spending rate payers’ money in such difficult times were perfectly reasonable. Not least we should be examining where this money will be taken from within existing budgets (e.g. what events will suffer to realise this spend?).
“Investment in heritage tourism needs to be done in a visionary and imaginative way which will maximise tourism and provide jobs, regeneration and celebrate our history.
“A more inclusive approach to this issue would enable all parties to make valuable contributions on behalf of their constituents as we move into a very important Decade of Centenaries.
“We feel that core principles need to be established to ensure balance around these events and to critically analyse their importance, not just simply celebrate and commemorate.”
“I find it bizarre that the SDLP councillors, in a heartbeat, effectively pledged £1m to 2012 events without agreeing to having in-depth party discussions and ultimately ignoring the need for a plan and principles to be applied around significant events. They are effectively joining with the DUP in taking a narrow issue-by-issue approach to these extremely important events.”
Health hazzard entry needs cleared
Ardoyne Sinn Féin councillor Gerard McCabe is backing residents’ calls for urgent action to address a litter and dumping problem that is making their lives a misery.
For years the entry that runs between Ardoyne shops and Balholm Drive has been a dumping ground for all manner of rubbish.
“The relevant departments at Belfast City Council are working with me to try and find the best way forward to find a satisfactory outcome to this problem,” said Gerard McCabe.
He said part of the problem is that the entry is unadopted, which means no single department has responsibility for the maintenance of it.
“I have already met with DRD, the Housing Executive and Belfast City Council’s Environmental Health department to try and find the best way forward.
“There have been a lot of ideas with regards to the different departments going in and cleaning it up but none of them are legally bound to do it.
“I am going to be reporting back to the residents next week to see how we can get work done to the entry and get it maintained by different government departments.”
“I will be asking the Council’s Environmental Health department to treat this as a serious issues and explore how they can move it forward on a health and safety issue because the entry is unsafe to walk in.”
Ardoyne residents unite against anti-social behaviour
Ardoyne residents held a public rally in opposition to a gang they say are terrorising the area.
The vigil was held in Havana Walk last Friday evening as a community response against the ongoing antisocial behaviour in the area.
The previous Sunday, 15-year old school boy Ciaran Murphy was badly beaten up by the gang close to his Havana Court home.
After the rally, the residents gathered in Ardoyne GAA club to discuss the problem.
A public meeting for residents across the district will be held next Wednesday night (November 17) in Holy Cross Boys’ School.
Sinn Féin councillor for the area Gerard McCabe urged local people to come along to the meeting.
"I was very happy with how the meeting on Friday went and am glad everyone got to have an input and talk about what is going on," said Gerard.
"I am now urging people to come along to this larger public meeting to try and bring an end to antisocial behaviour throughout the district.
"It is a small antisocial element who are doing this and they are very much in the minority.”
There should be no delay in Finucane Inquiry – Sinn Féin
Sinn Féin MLA and Truth spokesperson Francie Molloy has criticised British Secretary of State Owen Paterson in stating he will not make a decision on whether there will be an inquiry into the murder of Pat Finucane until early next year.
“A commitment was made to establish an inquiry into Pat’s murder in 2004 – it is totally unacceptable that the British Government is continuing to stall on this issue,” said Molloy.
“Pat’s family deserve truth and they deserve justice.”
“A commitment was made to establish an inquiry into Pat’s murder in 2004 – it is totally unacceptable that the British Government is continuing to stall on this issue,” said Molloy.
“Pat’s family deserve truth and they deserve justice.”
Maskey: PSNI must reflect the community
Sinn Féin Policing Board member Alex Maskey MLA has this morning stressed the continued need for the PSNI to be truly representative of the community here.
Maskey’s comments comment after the British Secretary of State said he is ‘minded’ not renew the provisions for 50/50 recruitment to the PSNI.
“This is yet another indication of the arrogance of a British Tory Minister attempting to impose their will on important issues here in the north." said Alex.
"What is central in all of this is the continued need for the PSNI to be truly reflective of and responsible to the broader community in the north of Ireland. As yet that is not the case, 29% representation of those from a Catholic background is not a satisfactory reflection.
The Patten Recommendations are a threshold which I am minded the British Government diluted through Peter Mandelson’s legislation. Muh work remains to be done in order to ensure that the PSNI become reflective of our communities as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement.”
Maskey’s comments comment after the British Secretary of State said he is ‘minded’ not renew the provisions for 50/50 recruitment to the PSNI.
“This is yet another indication of the arrogance of a British Tory Minister attempting to impose their will on important issues here in the north." said Alex.
"What is central in all of this is the continued need for the PSNI to be truly reflective of and responsible to the broader community in the north of Ireland. As yet that is not the case, 29% representation of those from a Catholic background is not a satisfactory reflection.
The Patten Recommendations are a threshold which I am minded the British Government diluted through Peter Mandelson’s legislation. Muh work remains to be done in order to ensure that the PSNI become reflective of our communities as envisaged in the Good Friday Agreement.”
Friday, 22 October 2010
Sinn Féin ensure Assembly recall to debate Tory cuts
Sinn Féin Chief Whip Carál Ní Chuilín MLA has submitted the required number of names yesterday to ensure the recall of the Assembly on Monday the 25th of October.
The recall will be to debate the pressing concerns regarding the impact of the British Government Comprehensive Spending Review.
Speaking yesterday Ms Ní Chuilín said:
“Sinn Fein have been successful in having the Assembly recalled next week to debate yesterdays cuts by the Tory Government.
“The protection of our jobs, of those who are vulnerable, of our health and education systems, and indeed the long term prospects of the economy are much too important to leave to another day. The British Governments proposals affect us all and our constituents right now.
“We must present a united front from the Assembly and make a stand against these cuts and press for real economic levers to determine what happens with our own economy.
“It is not good enough that the British Tory coalition, who have absolutely no-one elected in the North, dictate what form our economy will take.”
The recall will be to debate the pressing concerns regarding the impact of the British Government Comprehensive Spending Review.
Speaking yesterday Ms Ní Chuilín said:
“Sinn Fein have been successful in having the Assembly recalled next week to debate yesterdays cuts by the Tory Government.
“The protection of our jobs, of those who are vulnerable, of our health and education systems, and indeed the long term prospects of the economy are much too important to leave to another day. The British Governments proposals affect us all and our constituents right now.
“We must present a united front from the Assembly and make a stand against these cuts and press for real economic levers to determine what happens with our own economy.
“It is not good enough that the British Tory coalition, who have absolutely no-one elected in the North, dictate what form our economy will take.”
Thursday, 21 October 2010
Various cases indicate British prepared to use dissident groups – Sinn Féin
Sinn Féin’s Alex Maskey MLA has said that the case of Anton Craig indicates clearly what the party has been saying for some considerable time regarding British Securocrats use and abuse of so called dissident organisations.
Speaking today Mr Maskey said;
“Recent court cases and various other judicial proceedings seem to show a worrying trend of MI5 agents, or indeed those suspected of being MI5 agents, acting as instigators in many of the actions carried out by these micro-groups.
Studying these cases it appears clear to us that the warnings we have been flagging up about the degree of infiltration in these groups is proving hugely dangerous.
We are seeking to discuss these matters with those members of the legal profession who are also raising these same concerns, as well as raising it directly with the Irish and British Governments.”
Speaking today Mr Maskey said;
“Recent court cases and various other judicial proceedings seem to show a worrying trend of MI5 agents, or indeed those suspected of being MI5 agents, acting as instigators in many of the actions carried out by these micro-groups.
Studying these cases it appears clear to us that the warnings we have been flagging up about the degree of infiltration in these groups is proving hugely dangerous.
We are seeking to discuss these matters with those members of the legal profession who are also raising these same concerns, as well as raising it directly with the Irish and British Governments.”
Sinn Féin gain cross party support for home owners
Speaking at the conclusion of Mondays Assembly debate Sinn Féin DSD spokesperson and North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín welcomed cross party support for home owners in urban areas of regeneration who find themselves in negative equity when their homes are vested.
“In areas such as the New Lodge and Parkside and the Village regeneration schemes are much needed and very welcome,” said Ní Chuilín.
“However, home owners are being offered as little as half of what they paid for their properties during the vesting process.
“Thus families are left paying a huge mortgage and in a massive financial crisis. Today’s motion was about ensuring citizens rights are protected; both the motion and the subsequent amendment were carried during today’s debate and I welcome the support of the other parties.
“Our Assembly and Executive must work to ensure that people living in areas of redevelopment are not victimised as a result of the economic crisis; while we welcome and actively encourage the redevelopment and improvement of urban, often working class communities, homeowners must be protected against falling into negative equity.
“It is worth remembering that it is not these families who are responsible for creating the current economic problems. Homeowners would appear to be unduly disadvantaged as a result of vesting and the Executive through DSD need to look innovatively and sympathetically at these peoples current situation.”
“In areas such as the New Lodge and Parkside and the Village regeneration schemes are much needed and very welcome,” said Ní Chuilín.
“However, home owners are being offered as little as half of what they paid for their properties during the vesting process.
“Thus families are left paying a huge mortgage and in a massive financial crisis. Today’s motion was about ensuring citizens rights are protected; both the motion and the subsequent amendment were carried during today’s debate and I welcome the support of the other parties.
“Our Assembly and Executive must work to ensure that people living in areas of redevelopment are not victimised as a result of the economic crisis; while we welcome and actively encourage the redevelopment and improvement of urban, often working class communities, homeowners must be protected against falling into negative equity.
“It is worth remembering that it is not these families who are responsible for creating the current economic problems. Homeowners would appear to be unduly disadvantaged as a result of vesting and the Executive through DSD need to look innovatively and sympathetically at these peoples current situation.”
Friday, 15 October 2010
There is a better way
By Gerry Kelly
It came as no surprise to me that when Sinn Féin strongly resisted proposals of massive cuts to the North's budget by the British Treasury that the DUP instantly took the opposite position of acceptance of cuts with Sammy Wilson's often personal views on where the axe would fall.
As we engaged with the other parties robustly challenging their logic of meek compliance with the cuts agenda, Sinn Féin managed to drag the DUP onto our negotiating position culminating in Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness's joint negotiation in London where together they resisted the repackaged slash and burn approach of that thinly disguised old Tory agenda.
The Assembly does have it's role to play in leading our way out of this recession but it isn't through dismantling the public sector nor increasing unemployment and
slashing vital services for deprived communities.
We must invest our way towards the future whilst implementing logical savings through the modernising of our economy and reinvesting in front line services, jobs and business.
Sinn Féin can stand on our record of consistently battling against bureaucracy and waste. For example, the Review of Public Administration, which would have reduced the number of Councils from 26 to 11, alone would have saved upwards of £400million and the introduction of the Education and Skills Authority another £20million per year. However the DUP continue to block these savings for their own narrow political ends.
Vested interests in the gravy train of the North's myriad of quangos continue to resist change whilst offering no alternative other than attacks on the most vulnerable and service cuts, including removing home help workers tending to our older people.
All-Ireland integration of services combined with European investment can provide real tangible and constructive alternatives to the right wing agenda of dismantling the public sector.
Upwards of 90% of the North's businesses are SME's (small and medium enterprises) employing less than ten people. It is through investing in the growth of this sector that we can assist in lifting ourselves out of the financial crisis.
Sinn Féin was instrumental in the hugely significant step of the establishment of the European Task force for the North, which has been of great help at this time.
Maximizing access to finance for individuals facing uncertainty in the job market and at-risk groups, including those seeking self-employment, is vital to creating opportunity and encouraging enterprise.
It's essential that financial intermediary organisations and micro finance providers such as credit unions, local savings banks, smaller development banks/institutions and selected local commercial banks avail of opportunities such as the newly introduced €500million EU micro finance scheme.
They will then be able to provide loans or credits to individuals or micro-companies of up to a maximum 25,000€ per loan. Obviously, this has the potential to become a lifeline for small firms struggling in the recession and a vital start-up opportunity for others at a time when finance is increasingly difficult to secure.
Demonstrating fiscal competence doesn't mean complying with the current conservative reactionary agenda of cuts. Those that are most resistant to change remain the very same people that wallowed in the excesses of deregulation and who are now presenting the bill for the financial crisis to us. Sinn Féin's alternative vision is investing our way to a better future.
Maskey and Kelly congratulate Paddy Barnes on another Gold Medal
Sinn Féin Councillor Conor Maskey spoke of North Belfast’s pride in local Boxer Paddy Barnes after winning another Gold Medal, this time in Delhi’s Commonwealth Games.
Barnes defeated the raining Commonwealth champion by a score of 8-4 in an impressive final performance.
Speaking after the victory, Cllr Conor Maskey said;
“Paddy Barnes’ victory today adds to his historical status among amateur boxers in Belfast. This latest Gold medal is in addition to his European Gold and Olympic Bronze in recent times.
“Belfast City Council is quite rightly hosting an evening soon for Paddy, his family, friends, coaches and fellow boxers which will give civic recognition to his achievements in the sport.”
“His dedication and success in the sport continues to be an inspiration to younger sports people across the city and lifts their expectations of themselves and what they can achieve, given the proper application.
“North Belfast is duly proud of Paddy and will ensure a tremendous welcome when he returns from Delhi.”
Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly also added his congratulations to Paddy Barnes saying it was fantastic boost for North Belfast.
“I want to extend the warmest congratulations to Paddy from the people of North Belfast on his latest boxing success. Paddy is an example to us all of how hard work and determination can pay off in the sporting arena,” said Kelly.
“This comes as a fantastic boost to the community of North Belfast and I’m delighted for Paddy and his family. We are all behind Paddy in his promising boxing career and want to wish him every success for the future.”
Martin McGuinness speech at North Belfast Respect Programme event in Landsowne
"Good morning ladies and gentlemen. Let me begin by saying how pleased I am to be here today to address this conference.
Unfortunately, my colleague the First Minister could not be here due to other commitments, but I know that I speak on behalf of him when I say just how much importance we place on the future development of North Belfast.
I would like to compliment the Ashton Community Trust in particular for the work that has been put into making this conference a reality. An event of this scale does not just happen – it requires an enormous amount of time, effort and commitment and for that I commend the Trust.
It’s good to be here under the shadow of the historic Cave Hill. The North Belfast landmark that can be seen from across Belfast. It is an integral part of the Belfast Hills just as North Belfast is an integral part of the city as a whole.
I say historic Cave Hill as it was the site where, Theobald Wolfe Tone, sought to unite Protestant, Catholic and Dissenter under the common banner of Irish men and women. While I still hold dear to that objective I acknowledge that some in this room do not share that view.
However I believe that it is right and fitting to talk about uniting the community here under the common banner of North Belfast.
Wolfe Tone recognised the inequality that beset society at the time. He saw the rich get richer, as the poor struggled to make a living. He saw the inequality between the landlord and the landless. He believed that the destiny of the people should be in the people’s hands.
While much has changed since the times of Wolf Tone. There continues to be the needs to redress inequality and to have people play an active part in society and in shaping their future. While Wolfe Tone believed this applied on a national level it is also the case people need to play a part in shaping their future at a level as well.
Our society is in a state of flux. It has changed radically over the last 20 years as we continue the journey from conflict to peace. The pace of that change has accelerated over the past number of years with the re-establishment of the institutions.
At the beginning of this Assembly term, I said, that we were in for a rocky road. It should be remembered that until we became partners in government I had never spoke with Ian Paisley or Peter Robinson. So we had to build a relationship from scratch while dealing with contentious political issues. I know that community activists across North Belfast have engaged in a similar process at a local level. This work takes time. But here we are three and half year on and the Executive and Assembly in still meeting and functioning.
Huge progress has been made on the political front. Also during the same period the north had the highest levels of growth anywhere on Ireland or Britain. New investment came in and unemployment fell.
However these statistics mask the reality that not all areas benefited equally. Patterns of persistent deprivation continued. Sections of the community were left distant for the prosperity that benefitted others.
Areas in North and West Belfast, Inner East and the lower Ormeau, the village and Donegal Road neighbourhoods became spectators to progress. This is unacceptable and unsustainable.
In the current economic situation the Executive is united in our determination to grow the economy out of recession and into prosperity, and to tackle patterns of deprivation and deliver change in the community.
Before the institutions were established all the parties negotiated collectively and secured a package of investment. This package was to run up until 2017. It was secured over an extended period to give our Executive financial stability. The package was agreed with the then government and with the support of parties in Westminster.
There are some mostly, in the Tory led government who believe that they can cut their way out of recession. Peter Robinson and I are committed to ensuring that this same government lives up to its commitments.
These commitments must not be broken because they are required to grow the economy out of recession. They are required to tackle the multiple deprivation experienced by sections of the community such as those in north Belfast. We will not and cannot sell this or any other section of the community short.
We recognise that not everyone has equally benefited from peace and prosperity. We need to tackle the patterns of disadvantage. We need a new approach. We need to target resources to those areas in most need. We need to do more. We need investment which is additional to existing programmes such as neighbourhood renewal.
OFMDFM has responsibility for promoting good relationships and tackling poverty both across and within North Belfast and we are committed to doing so with the aim of making it a safe, secure and prosperous place to live and work for everyone.
For too long these policy areas have been seen to be distinct and separate. The CSI document currently under consultation makes clear that inequality, poverty and social exclusion sustains division and conflict.
If we are to promote good relations it has to be in the context of redressing the historic patterns of deprivation which have beset North Belfast.
Both the First Minister and I use the term community deliberately. We use the term community as we share more in common than what separates us.
The impact of unemployment is felt the same in families across north Belfast regardless of where they live. The lack of opportunity for our youth affects all our young people and the fear of anti social and criminal behaviour impacts on all.
I believe that the way to create real long lasting and sustainable change is by acting together to redress deprivation. We are stronger when every section of our community act together for the betterment of all.
I would reject the suggestion that one section of the society or one neighbourhood can be regenerated at the exclusion of another. Inequality will only sustain the potential for conflict. We target disadvantage were it arises on the basis of objective need.
OFMdFM are currently drafting up a programme to tackle poverty and disadvantage. This is not a secret fund. It is not a fund for former paramilitaries as some have sought to portray it. It is not a programme to replace existing measure. If agreed it will be additional to what departments are currently doing.
Any new approach must build on the work that has gone before. We are looking at supporting initiatives that get people into employment by removing barriers, by developing skills, by creating self employment and business start-up.
However it needs to be more that an employment project it must also address the physical environment, tackle dereliction and promote development.
A community is more than just jobs and buildings. We must also support to be sustainable and safe.
I would liken the approach to tackling disadvantage as a three legged stool. We need to get people into employment. We need to physically enhance areas and we need to build sustainability. We need to build areas were people want to live.
If we are to achieve these objectives we need to identify additional resources and we need to work with those most deprived to develop and implement plans. This cannot not be another paper exercise. It will be a challenge to departments to work together and in partnership with the community to deliver agreed plans.
It will also be a challenge for the community. If we are to tackle the scale of the intervention required to economically regenerate North Belfast it will require more that disparate interventions in local areas. It will require long term projects and investment in programmes.
It will not be built on a series of separate one off projects in disparate areas. Disjointed and disconnected initiatives in Tigers Bay, the New Lodge, the Shankill and Ardoyne will not realise the potential of all of North Belfast and will not deliver for all the those in need. .
It we are to tackle unemployment and dereliction and build sustainable and safe neighbourhoods we must be about working and delivering together.
We need to find answers to the questions.
• How can we build the economic base of the north of the city for the benefit of all.
• How can we skill up people here to create or compete for the jobs.
• How do we remove barriers to employment.
• How do we build the links between the wider economy and North Belfast.
• How do we make the best use of sites such as Girdwood, Crumlin Road Gaol, the Court House and the Lough Shore.
We have made plain our intention to make good on the commitment to target the most disadvantaged areas. We would like to work with all to develop responses to tackling unemployment, dereliction and building safe and sustainable neighbourhoods.
The North Belfast Respect Programme will help generate some of the answers to the questions of how to tackle disadvantage.
I would encourage people to participate in as many events as possible, not only to show their support for the Respect Programme, but to also gain a greater understanding around many of the political, social, economic, historical and cultural issues which are important within the community here in North Belfast and ultimately to make this year’s Respect Programme another real success."
Unfortunately, my colleague the First Minister could not be here due to other commitments, but I know that I speak on behalf of him when I say just how much importance we place on the future development of North Belfast.
I would like to compliment the Ashton Community Trust in particular for the work that has been put into making this conference a reality. An event of this scale does not just happen – it requires an enormous amount of time, effort and commitment and for that I commend the Trust.
It’s good to be here under the shadow of the historic Cave Hill. The North Belfast landmark that can be seen from across Belfast. It is an integral part of the Belfast Hills just as North Belfast is an integral part of the city as a whole.
I say historic Cave Hill as it was the site where, Theobald Wolfe Tone, sought to unite Protestant, Catholic and Dissenter under the common banner of Irish men and women. While I still hold dear to that objective I acknowledge that some in this room do not share that view.
However I believe that it is right and fitting to talk about uniting the community here under the common banner of North Belfast.
Wolfe Tone recognised the inequality that beset society at the time. He saw the rich get richer, as the poor struggled to make a living. He saw the inequality between the landlord and the landless. He believed that the destiny of the people should be in the people’s hands.
While much has changed since the times of Wolf Tone. There continues to be the needs to redress inequality and to have people play an active part in society and in shaping their future. While Wolfe Tone believed this applied on a national level it is also the case people need to play a part in shaping their future at a level as well.
Our society is in a state of flux. It has changed radically over the last 20 years as we continue the journey from conflict to peace. The pace of that change has accelerated over the past number of years with the re-establishment of the institutions.
At the beginning of this Assembly term, I said, that we were in for a rocky road. It should be remembered that until we became partners in government I had never spoke with Ian Paisley or Peter Robinson. So we had to build a relationship from scratch while dealing with contentious political issues. I know that community activists across North Belfast have engaged in a similar process at a local level. This work takes time. But here we are three and half year on and the Executive and Assembly in still meeting and functioning.
Huge progress has been made on the political front. Also during the same period the north had the highest levels of growth anywhere on Ireland or Britain. New investment came in and unemployment fell.
However these statistics mask the reality that not all areas benefited equally. Patterns of persistent deprivation continued. Sections of the community were left distant for the prosperity that benefitted others.
Areas in North and West Belfast, Inner East and the lower Ormeau, the village and Donegal Road neighbourhoods became spectators to progress. This is unacceptable and unsustainable.
In the current economic situation the Executive is united in our determination to grow the economy out of recession and into prosperity, and to tackle patterns of deprivation and deliver change in the community.
Before the institutions were established all the parties negotiated collectively and secured a package of investment. This package was to run up until 2017. It was secured over an extended period to give our Executive financial stability. The package was agreed with the then government and with the support of parties in Westminster.
There are some mostly, in the Tory led government who believe that they can cut their way out of recession. Peter Robinson and I are committed to ensuring that this same government lives up to its commitments.
These commitments must not be broken because they are required to grow the economy out of recession. They are required to tackle the multiple deprivation experienced by sections of the community such as those in north Belfast. We will not and cannot sell this or any other section of the community short.
We recognise that not everyone has equally benefited from peace and prosperity. We need to tackle the patterns of disadvantage. We need a new approach. We need to target resources to those areas in most need. We need to do more. We need investment which is additional to existing programmes such as neighbourhood renewal.
OFMDFM has responsibility for promoting good relationships and tackling poverty both across and within North Belfast and we are committed to doing so with the aim of making it a safe, secure and prosperous place to live and work for everyone.
For too long these policy areas have been seen to be distinct and separate. The CSI document currently under consultation makes clear that inequality, poverty and social exclusion sustains division and conflict.
If we are to promote good relations it has to be in the context of redressing the historic patterns of deprivation which have beset North Belfast.
Both the First Minister and I use the term community deliberately. We use the term community as we share more in common than what separates us.
The impact of unemployment is felt the same in families across north Belfast regardless of where they live. The lack of opportunity for our youth affects all our young people and the fear of anti social and criminal behaviour impacts on all.
I believe that the way to create real long lasting and sustainable change is by acting together to redress deprivation. We are stronger when every section of our community act together for the betterment of all.
I would reject the suggestion that one section of the society or one neighbourhood can be regenerated at the exclusion of another. Inequality will only sustain the potential for conflict. We target disadvantage were it arises on the basis of objective need.
OFMdFM are currently drafting up a programme to tackle poverty and disadvantage. This is not a secret fund. It is not a fund for former paramilitaries as some have sought to portray it. It is not a programme to replace existing measure. If agreed it will be additional to what departments are currently doing.
Any new approach must build on the work that has gone before. We are looking at supporting initiatives that get people into employment by removing barriers, by developing skills, by creating self employment and business start-up.
However it needs to be more that an employment project it must also address the physical environment, tackle dereliction and promote development.
A community is more than just jobs and buildings. We must also support to be sustainable and safe.
I would liken the approach to tackling disadvantage as a three legged stool. We need to get people into employment. We need to physically enhance areas and we need to build sustainability. We need to build areas were people want to live.
If we are to achieve these objectives we need to identify additional resources and we need to work with those most deprived to develop and implement plans. This cannot not be another paper exercise. It will be a challenge to departments to work together and in partnership with the community to deliver agreed plans.
It will also be a challenge for the community. If we are to tackle the scale of the intervention required to economically regenerate North Belfast it will require more that disparate interventions in local areas. It will require long term projects and investment in programmes.
It will not be built on a series of separate one off projects in disparate areas. Disjointed and disconnected initiatives in Tigers Bay, the New Lodge, the Shankill and Ardoyne will not realise the potential of all of North Belfast and will not deliver for all the those in need. .
It we are to tackle unemployment and dereliction and build sustainable and safe neighbourhoods we must be about working and delivering together.
We need to find answers to the questions.
• How can we build the economic base of the north of the city for the benefit of all.
• How can we skill up people here to create or compete for the jobs.
• How do we remove barriers to employment.
• How do we build the links between the wider economy and North Belfast.
• How do we make the best use of sites such as Girdwood, Crumlin Road Gaol, the Court House and the Lough Shore.
We have made plain our intention to make good on the commitment to target the most disadvantaged areas. We would like to work with all to develop responses to tackling unemployment, dereliction and building safe and sustainable neighbourhoods.
The North Belfast Respect Programme will help generate some of the answers to the questions of how to tackle disadvantage.
I would encourage people to participate in as many events as possible, not only to show their support for the Respect Programme, but to also gain a greater understanding around many of the political, social, economic, historical and cultural issues which are important within the community here in North Belfast and ultimately to make this year’s Respect Programme another real success."
Friday, 8 October 2010
Stop the witch-hunt against the poor - Ní Chuilín
Sinn Féin Social Development Spokesperson and North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has hit out at the Tory Welfare Reform proposals which attack the most vulnerable.
“The ongoing witch-hunt against benefit recipients must be faced down. The British Coalition government along with sensationalist media reports are painting all those on benefits as spongers, dossers and fraudsters,” said Ní Chuilín.
“If they were to take an honest and realistic approach to this issue then the facts could clearly be exposed and the myth of benefit fraud would be ended.
“If we take for example people who receive child benefit on income support, income support is reduced by the amount of child benefit received. This is not an additional payment making it extremely difficult for low-income families.
“Disability Living Allowance is the benefit with the lowest fraud levels with less than 0.01% being fraudulent claims yet constant myths of fraud are circulated by the right-wing media.
“The issue of carers is even more scandalous. Carers save the British government £3bn per year by only receiving £53.90 for a 35 hour minimum week. This works out at £1.30 an hour, one quarter of the minimum wage. If carers earn one penny over £95 outside of these payments their benefit is stopped.
“Little focus however is placed on the fact that last year clerical error or mistakes in payments cost £32 million, a saving that we should really be striving for instead of punishing the vulnerable.
“Alex Attwood has made much of his contacts with the British secretary for work and pensions, Ian Duncan Smith, whose proposed reforms can only lead to further hardship for those most in need.
“Despite the concerns being spoken off by the SDLP DSD minister he is preparing to migrate 76,000 claimants from incapacity to jobs seekers at a time when there is no jobs with a prolonged recession and job opportunities that are almost none existent.
“We already have one of the poorest welfare systems in Europe, a mechanism that is a safety net for those in society who really need it. What we need to see now is a clear and concise argument from the minister, which includes concrete proposals of how he intends to protect the vulnerable and fight these cuts.
“Sadly the Torys are at their old agenda of dismantling the welfare system by using the language of efficiency and hiding behind the economic downturn. Deprived communities like North Belfast will be hardest hit under these proposals,” said the Sinn Féin MLA.
Thieves targeting Ardoyne homes
Criminals who are targeting Housing Executive homes in Ardoyne are denying families’ access to proper homes, said North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly.
Criminal gangs have been targeting heating systems in homes that are undergoing change-of-tenancy repairs and selling it as scrap metal.
“The housing crisis remains at a critical level and the criminal gangs that are ripping out these home heating systems for scrap metal are contemptible,” said Kelly.
“Not only do these actions affect homes that people are waiting to move into but the cost of restoring the heating systems are a huge drain on public money.”
He said that the value of the scrap metal is a few hundred pounds but replacing a heating system can cost around £10,000.
“This of course means there is less money for new homes and much needed repairs.”
Ardoyne Sinn Féin councillor Gerard McCabe said he has been working with families in the area to get much-needed homes.
“Families are waiting to be allocated homes by the Housing Executive but they can’t be allocated because of the actions of these mindless criminals. They are denying these families access to proper homes.”
He urged the PSNI to take prompt action to bring these criminal gangs before the courts and appealed to scrap merchants to be mindful of people coming to them with this type of scrap metal.
“If they are suspicious of anything I urge them to contact the PSNI.”
Gerard also appealed to social housing providers to mark the heating systems so they can be identified.
Doctored fireworks lethal – Sinn Féin councillor
Sinn Féin Councillor Gerard McCabe said the young adults doctoring fireworks don’t seem to understand how dangerous the fireworks can be.
Doctored fireworks with nails attached and spilt open to enable them to fire across the ground have the capability to kill.
“These are not young children who are firing these fireworks – it is young adults who know exactly what they are doing but they don’t seem to understand the potential of the consequences,” said the Sinn Féin councillor.
“They have lifted it up a level by attaching items such as nails and appear to be determined to seriously injure or maim someone.
“I appeal to them to step back and think about what you are doing because there is the possibility that the person injured by these devices could be someone from their own family.”
Gerard spoke to one resident who had a firework thrown through his car window as he was driving.
“It went through the back window – very luckily no-one was in the back seat. Who knows what could have happened if there was.”
He also appealed to shop owners to be vigilant, for those selling fireworks illegally to stop and for the PSNI to clamp down on the trade of illegal fireworks
“I would appeal to those who are selling them legally to be very aware of selling them to youngsters.”
Road development good for regeneration
North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín said a road block to regeneration has been removed after the Road Service agreed to allow a right-hand turn from a retail park onto a major local road.
The roads body this week announced it was creating a right-hand turn from Hillview Retail Park onto the Crumlin Road after originally saying it couldn’t be done due to safety concerns.
The site, which formerly contained Dunnes Stores, is the location of the proposed ASDA store, which was originally meant to open this month. However, that has been delayed until next year.
The Sinn Féin representative said the party had listened to the concerns of those aiming to develop the site and this move would allow an expansion of the park.
“We lobbied the Road Service and Planning Service for changes to access to this new retail park. The development would provide much needed employment for local people and vital shopping facilities for the surrounding community, and would regenerate the whole area,” said Ní Chuilín.
“The main obstacle that stood in the way of this imaginative proposal was how the Crumlin Road couldn’t be accessed by a right turn from this site. Along with the architects, we engaged with the statutory agencies to ensure safety could be maintained whilst providing the required access.
“I’m delighted with the news from the Road Service that changes can go ahead and that they will be working with the Planning Service to resolve this issue for the good of all the local community."
Friday, 1 October 2010
The DUP should stop hiding behind the Orange Order - Kelly
“The Orange Order rejection of new parades legislation should not be allowed to veto the establishment and endorsement by the Assembly of a new framework to address the issue of parades,” said North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly.
“The legislation is an important part of the outworking of the Hillsborough Castle Agreement. The Orange Order were not party to that Agreement and they cannot be afforded a veto over progress to resolve this issue.
“The fact that there is a parading issue at all is entirely down to past failures by the Orange Order to reach accommodation on a small number of contentious parades.
“They continue to have difficulty with recognition of the community's right to live free from sectarian harassment. And they continue to have a difficulty with the concepts of dialogue and mediation and code of conduct.
“They have a responsibility to play a full part in resolving this important issue. Instead of allowing them a veto on new legislation they should be confronted with their responsibilities with respect to parades in general and contentious parades in particular.
“The DUP should stop hiding behind the Orange Order and support the introduction of the Parades Bill into the Assembly. The parties that made the agreement at Hillsborough can ensure the Parades Bill passes through the Assembly and becomes legislation,” said Kelly.
Ní Chuilín joins European day of action
Sinn Féin MLA Carál Chuilín said the cuts being proposed by the British government will have a hugely detrimental impact on workers, the disadvantaged and those in poverty particularly in North Belfast.
The Republican activist was speaking as she took part in a rally in Belfast opposed to the cuts.
“The poorest will be hit ten times harder than the wealthy. It will be the public services they rely on, in health and education and social services and transport, that will be hit hardest,” said Ní Chuilín.
“Lone parents, the elderly and the sick will suffer the most. In addition, the patterns of poverty remain the same as ever. For as long as records exist, concentrations of inequality and deprivation have been ingrained in areas like North Belfast. This is systemic and structured discrimination.
“So, political leaders and parties in the north have to stand up for peoples rights and in opposition to cuts. Sinn Féin is focused and determined to do this.
“When Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness met the British Chancellor, Martin McGuinness told him of our opposition to cuts and of the need to protect frontline services for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
“Sinn Féin believes that there is an alternative to the slash and burn strategy of the British government.
Sinn Féin is committed to:
· Building efficient and effective public services.
· Rebalancing the economy by growing the private sector, particularly small and medium sized businesses. In line with many governments in Europe and in the USA we need a strategic approach which invests to save jobs, tackles waste and inefficiencies and promotes investment in infrastructure.
· There is a need to redress the inequalities which undermine the political progress that we have made to date. Sinn Féin is committed to the full implementation of the Section 75 Equality measures and in particular how this is applied in regard to public expenditure.
· The Executive requires the necessary fiscal tools to tackle the economic crisis. These must include tax varying and borrowing powers.
· Significant savings can be made and more efficient use made of existing resources if we end the economically harmful duplication of services as a result of partition. On an island this small it does not make sense to have two competing economic systems. So, Sinn Féin will seeking to work in alliance with the trade unions and community and voluntary sector to campaign against cuts and to defend community and public services, especially in the most deprived areas.
“So I'm here today showing the leadership that our community expects and deserves and I’m standing shoulder-to-shoulder with workers across the European Union in their opposition to this reactionary agenda of cuts. The poor will not foot the bill for the greedy or the rich.”
The Republican activist was speaking as she took part in a rally in Belfast opposed to the cuts.
“The poorest will be hit ten times harder than the wealthy. It will be the public services they rely on, in health and education and social services and transport, that will be hit hardest,” said Ní Chuilín.
“Lone parents, the elderly and the sick will suffer the most. In addition, the patterns of poverty remain the same as ever. For as long as records exist, concentrations of inequality and deprivation have been ingrained in areas like North Belfast. This is systemic and structured discrimination.
“So, political leaders and parties in the north have to stand up for peoples rights and in opposition to cuts. Sinn Féin is focused and determined to do this.
“When Peter Robinson and Martin McGuinness met the British Chancellor, Martin McGuinness told him of our opposition to cuts and of the need to protect frontline services for the most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities.
“Sinn Féin believes that there is an alternative to the slash and burn strategy of the British government.
Sinn Féin is committed to:
· Building efficient and effective public services.
· Rebalancing the economy by growing the private sector, particularly small and medium sized businesses. In line with many governments in Europe and in the USA we need a strategic approach which invests to save jobs, tackles waste and inefficiencies and promotes investment in infrastructure.
· There is a need to redress the inequalities which undermine the political progress that we have made to date. Sinn Féin is committed to the full implementation of the Section 75 Equality measures and in particular how this is applied in regard to public expenditure.
· The Executive requires the necessary fiscal tools to tackle the economic crisis. These must include tax varying and borrowing powers.
· Significant savings can be made and more efficient use made of existing resources if we end the economically harmful duplication of services as a result of partition. On an island this small it does not make sense to have two competing economic systems. So, Sinn Féin will seeking to work in alliance with the trade unions and community and voluntary sector to campaign against cuts and to defend community and public services, especially in the most deprived areas.
“So I'm here today showing the leadership that our community expects and deserves and I’m standing shoulder-to-shoulder with workers across the European Union in their opposition to this reactionary agenda of cuts. The poor will not foot the bill for the greedy or the rich.”
27,647 children benefit from primary school uniform grant introduced by Minister Ruane
Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has welcomed a response from the education minister to a written Assembly question, which shows that 27,647 children benefited from the primary school uniform grant first introduced by Caitríona Ruane in 2009. The total grants paid out amounted to £988.336.
The North Belfast Executive Minister said:
“While I welcome the availability of this grant the rise in the numbers applying this year is an indication of the severe economic climate in which many families now reside. An extra 2,500 children were awarded the grant this year than in 2009.
“The grant of £35 per child will have helped in some way in aiding families during a very expensive time of the year with children returning to or starting school as will the widening of the Free School Meals scheme by the Sinn Fein Education Minister.
“This will also go some way in easing the financial pressures faced by many of the most vulnerable families in our community”
The North Belfast Executive Minister said:
“While I welcome the availability of this grant the rise in the numbers applying this year is an indication of the severe economic climate in which many families now reside. An extra 2,500 children were awarded the grant this year than in 2009.
“The grant of £35 per child will have helped in some way in aiding families during a very expensive time of the year with children returning to or starting school as will the widening of the Free School Meals scheme by the Sinn Fein Education Minister.
“This will also go some way in easing the financial pressures faced by many of the most vulnerable families in our community”
Sinn Fein slams DUP stalling on sexual orientation strategy
Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ni Chuilín MLA has slammed the DUP for the continued delay in implementing OFMdFM’s Sexual Orientation Strategy.
Speaking after the DUP junior Minister Robin Newton was tackled on the matter during Question Time in the Assembly she said:
“The LGBT community in the north are justifiably concerned at the apparent unwillingness of the DUP to implement this much needed strategy.
“OFMdFM are committed to bringing this strategy forward and equality delayed is equality denied; the line articulated by Robin Newton, that this may not happen until 2012 is totally unacceptable to Sinn Féin and would appear to have much more to do with the DUP heading into election mode as opposed to helping address the serious issues facing those gay, lesbian and transgendered members of our community.
This strategy needs to come forward without any further delay.
“Robin Newton now needs to clarify if he was speaking in his capacity as a DUP member or was he giving an agreed position from OFMdFM because from Sinn Féin’s perspective any delay in implementing this much needed strategy is completely unacceptable.”
Speaking after the DUP junior Minister Robin Newton was tackled on the matter during Question Time in the Assembly she said:
“The LGBT community in the north are justifiably concerned at the apparent unwillingness of the DUP to implement this much needed strategy.
“OFMdFM are committed to bringing this strategy forward and equality delayed is equality denied; the line articulated by Robin Newton, that this may not happen until 2012 is totally unacceptable to Sinn Féin and would appear to have much more to do with the DUP heading into election mode as opposed to helping address the serious issues facing those gay, lesbian and transgendered members of our community.
This strategy needs to come forward without any further delay.
“Robin Newton now needs to clarify if he was speaking in his capacity as a DUP member or was he giving an agreed position from OFMdFM because from Sinn Féin’s perspective any delay in implementing this much needed strategy is completely unacceptable.”
Friday, 24 September 2010
Kelly slams those responsible for arson attack on 174 community centre
Sinn Féin MLA for North Belfast, Gerry Kelly, has slammed those responsible for an arson attack on the 174 Trust community center on the Antrim Road.
Speaking today Kelly said:
“It is tragic that this particular centre has been badly damaged by an arson attack. Those responsible for this attack have denied the local community a valuable resource.
“This centre is used by all ages and primarily local people, but it also attracts groups from across the city. To have it damaged in such a disregarding way is unacceptable and I’m sure that those who use the centre, and indeed the wider communty, will do all in their power to see it returned to its former state.
“I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious last night should bring that information to the PSNI.”
Speaking today Kelly said:
“It is tragic that this particular centre has been badly damaged by an arson attack. Those responsible for this attack have denied the local community a valuable resource.
“This centre is used by all ages and primarily local people, but it also attracts groups from across the city. To have it damaged in such a disregarding way is unacceptable and I’m sure that those who use the centre, and indeed the wider communty, will do all in their power to see it returned to its former state.
“I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious last night should bring that information to the PSNI.”
“Our response should not be to manage cuts; our ambition needs to be greater” – Gerry Kelly
Sinn Féin Junior Minister and MLA for North Belfast Gerry Kelly launched the “2010 North Belfast Respect Programme” this week.
The programme includes conferences, historical tours, lectures, discussions, debates and other activities all aimed at developing awareness around political, social, economic and cultural issues affecting today’s society.
Speaking at the event, which was held in the Groundwork offices this morning Kelly delivered the following address”
“I am really pleased to be invited to this launch of the 2010 North Belfast Respect Programme. Unfortunately Junior Minister Newton is unable to be here and he sends his apologies, along with his best wishes for today’s event.
“We both recognise and value the very positive work being taken forward by all the people involved in the design, development and implementation of this year’s Programme. Well done to all of you.
“OFMDFM has responsibility for promoting good relationships and tackling poverty both across and within communities in North Belfast and we are committed to doing so with the aim of making it a safe, secure and prosperous place to live and work for everyone.
“For two long these policy areas have been seen to be distinct and separate. However I firmly believe that poverty and social exclusion sustains division and conflict.
“I believe that there is an urgent need to redress the historic patterns of deprivation which have beset the community of North Belfast.
“I deliberately use the term the community as I believe that we share more in common than what separates us.
“The impact of unemployment is felt the same in families across north Belfast regardless of where they live. The lack of opportunity for our youth affects all our young people and the fear of anti social and criminal behaviour impacts on all communities.
“I believe that the way to create real long lasting and sustainable change is by acting together to redress deprivation. We are stronger when every section of our community act together for the betterment of all.
“I would reject the suggestion that one section of the society or one neighbourhood can be regenerated at the exclusion of another. Inequality will only sustain the potential for conflict. We target disadvantage were it arises on the basis of objective need.
“The Executive is agreed on the three priorities of promoting economic growth out of recession, safeguarding frontline public services and tackling disadvantage.
“We also have an economy in crisis and a Tory led government that believes that you can cut your way out of recession.
“This will be a real challenge as some have bought into the Tory approach and it will be the working class, the communities of Ardoyne, Old Park, New Lodge, Tigers Bay and Mount Vernon that will bear the greatest cost for the greed of bankers and developers
“Our response should not be to manage cuts. Our ambition needs to be greater. We need to ensure that all in our community has the opportunity to play a full role in society. All have the opportunity for employment and to prosper. All can live free from anti social and criminal behaviour. This is what the community expects and deserves.
“OFMDFM are currently developing a programme to be targeted to those areas with the highest levels of disadvantage. It is not a secret programme as some have suggested and we have made plain our intention to make good on the commitment to target the most disadvantaged communities.
“We would like to work with communities to develop responses to tackling unemployment, dereliction and building safe and sustainable communities. We would hope to have formal consultations as the programme is being developed.
“It is in this context that OFMDFM is providing support to this year’s North Belfast Respect Programme as it creates a positive environment for local people supported by the voluntary, community and statutory sectors to explore these relevant issues and develop solutions.
“I’ve had a look through this year’s programme which runs over the next five weeks and there is truly an excellent series of worthwhile and informative events and activities on offer.
“I have no doubt that there will be something to interest everyone and I hope that people will participate in as many events as possible, not only to show their support for the Respect Programme, but to also gain a greater understanding around many of the political, social, economic, historical and cultural issues which are important within the community here in North Belfast and ultimately to make this year’s Respect Programme a real success.”
Details of all the events are available at www.ashtoncentre.com.
Memorial for first IRA Volunteer killed on active service
MEMORIES of the first IRA volunteer to die on active service following the outbreak of the recent conflict are to be shared at a plaque unveiling at the Westrock Community Garden in Ballymurphy.
Thirty-five-year-old father of six Michael Kane, who originally hailed from the New Lodge area of North Belfast, had his life cut short in a premature explosion in September of 1970.
The plaque dedicated to Michael Kane will be unveiled at the Westrock Community Garden this Sunday September 26, at 3pm, and will feature a short speech by veteran republican activist Joe Austin and will be chaired by Anne Marie McWilliams. All are welcome.
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