Death threats issued against Sinn Féin members

Speaking today after a unionist paramilitary group issued death threats and claimed to have left devices at a Sinn Féin Office and a number of members family homes, Sinn Féin's Carál NíChuilín said:

“Today a telephoned threat from the Orange Volunteers was received in the North Belfast Sinn Féin Office. The caller claimed to have left bombs at our office and family homes and threatened to carry out shootings against Gerry Kelly, my adviser Mary McArdle and myself.

“Over time there have been a number of threats from loyalists and indeed devices have previously been left at our North Belfast Office.

"Over the years there have been a number of Sinn Féin elected representatives and party workers murdered by unionist paramilitaries. When this campaign was at its height there was a parallel campaign in sections of the media and from unionist politicians vilifying and demonising Sinn Féin and our elected representatives. It was a central element of creating the conditions in which attacks on Sinn Féin could take place.

“There have been echoes of a similar campaign in certain media circles in recent days regarding Sinn Féin generally and Mary McArdle in particular. Those driving this campaign cannot divorce themselves from the threats which have been issued today. And I am very concerned that Alban Maguinness has joined the likes of Jim Allister in this attempted vilification of Sinn Féin.

“I have every confidence in Mary McCardle and Sinn Féin will not allow ourselves to be intimidated either by direct threats or by people creating conditions in which these types of threats are made. In the recent elections we received an increased mandate to continue with our work representing citizens and delivering change. That will remain our focus.”

A prompt reaction required after Oldpark robbery says McCabe

Sinn Fein's Gerry McCabe welcomed the prompt reaction of the PSNI after another Oldpark robbery. The Ardoyne Councillor said,

"This is the latest in a series of robberies of local businesses and I welcome the prompt reaction of the PSNI.

This example of community policing is what local traders and residents want to see from police.

While details remain unclear I'm lead to believe that the Ombudsman is now involved given that weapons were drawn on the masked occupants of the crashed car.

A woman was injured in the crash and has been taken to hospital and I hope she makes a speedy recovery.

My colleague Gerry Kelly MLA suffered a similar impact earlier in the week when his car was rammed by a get away car being chased by police.

Clearly people want to see these robberies stopped but caution must be taken to ensure the safety of the public during these types of pursuits" said the Ardoyne Councillor.

Gerry Kelly launches Easter Lily campaign at Belfast City Hall

Gerry Kelly this morning launched the annual Easter Lily campaign at Belfast City Hall. He was joined by representatives of the Belfast National Graves Association and Sinn Féin’s Belfast Council Team.

Gerry encouraged people to honour Ireland’s dead by wearing their Easter Lily and to continue to support the work of the National Graves Association in maintaining the graves of our Patriot Dead.

He also outlined the plans for this year’s Easter Commemoration in Belfast and ask people to attend their local events.

The following is a copy of Gerry’s address:

"A chairde, tá mé iontach sásta a bheith anseo libh uilig ar maidin. Is ócáid tábhachtach é an Cháisc, nuair a thagann muid le chéile le onóir a thabhairt do na daoine a fuair bás ar son Saoirse na hÉireann.

I am very thankful to be invited to speak at this morning’s launch and want to pay a particular word of thanks to the members of the Belfast National Graves Association who are with us here this morning. The work that they carry out, not just at Easter, but throughout the year, in maintaining the graves and therefore the memory of our Patriot Dead is invaluable and a tremendous piece of work which we must all continue to support.

That of course is where the Easter Lily itself comes in, a symbol so simple yet so significant, a symbol used for so long now but one which endures; a symbol, while only worn at this time of year, always reminds us who we are, where we have come from and what we must do to achieve our ultimate Republican objectives.

Each year we come together to launch this campaign, encouraging people to Honour Ireland’s Dead and wear their Easter Lily with pride.

Easter is a time of year when we rightly gather at roadsides, on country lanes, in housing estates and by memorials to remember our Patriot Dead.

It is a time when we face down those who would seek to demonise our Republican Dead, and through them, our struggle for Irish Freedom and Independence.

But most of all it is a time when we must recommit ourselves to the principles we adhere to, the very core message of Irish Republicanism, a time when we rededicate ourselves to the pursuance of the cause for which the men and women Volunteers of Óglaigh na hÉireann gave their lives.

We are very proud of our Patriot Dead, we are very proud of their families, and while others would try to usurp the proud name of Óglaigh na hÉireann, while they would try to sully our proud and historic struggle, we remain firmly committed to achieving a Free, Socialist and Democratic Ireland.

So I would encourage people to head away from this event today and wear your Easter Lily, encourage others to do likewise; to support the work of the National Graves Association and to attend commemorative events in your area during the Easter period.

This is a time when we as Republicans must unashamedly remember our families, friends and comrades and a time when we must again set our shoulders to the wheel and I am confident that with the men and women who gave all as our continued source of inspiration, we will soon bring about the Ireland for which they died.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh."

The more votes we have the more change we can make – Gerry Kelly

BY Gerry Kelly
The election battle has begun (just in case you hadn’t noticed). So why should people support Sinn Féin as opposed to a plethora of other parties?

Sinn Féin are the only all Ireland party in the race. We are just out of a very successful election in the 26 counties where we more than tripled our representation from the previous general election to 14 TDs.

In the six counties we have completed a first full term of a government since the late 60s. Sinn Féin is at the heart and leadership of it.

Not only have we brought the DUP into power sharing arrangements but they have crossed the line into all-Ireland institutions. They have also signed up to a programme for government underpinned by an equality agenda which impacts on every assembly department, unionist or otherwise.

Sinn Féin has relegated discrimination under the old Stormont regime and unaccountable British ministers to the history books.

Okay, some might say what has the assembly and executive achieved under Sinn Fein’s stewardship?
Well, amongst other things we have wrested policing and justice powers from London to make it accountable locally.

·We have consolidated the peace process.
·Rates per household are 47 per cent lower on average than in Britain,
·Put £22.5 million out to vulnerable households in winter hardship payments.
·Since 2007 created more and better jobs and secured almost £2.6 billion investment commitments with investments from America like NYSE, CITI, Dow chemicals, TERX, Universal and HBO.
·Free travel for all over 60s - there have been some 5.5 million journeys undertaken.
·Free prescriptions and no additional water charges
·Put £500 million into school estate; social investment fund of £80 million over the next four years for disadvantaged communities
·Social protection fund for vulnerable individuals and families with £20 million in year one with similar amounts to follow.

Sinn Féin is a party that works on every level but especially keeps itself grounded. All elected reps only take a percentage of their wage equivalent to the average industrial wage so that we continue to be aware and experience the lifestyle of a large section of working people and to reinvest in serving the community.

We are for reducing MLAs salaries and expenses by 15 per cent, abolishing additional re numeration for committee chairs and vice chairs, abolishing unnecessary quangos and ending the use of highly paid external consultants.

We are for harmonizing taxation across the Island and cutting replication of administration.
We believe in building the economy and private sector while protecting front line services in the public sector.

We are working for the small to medium sized businesses that make up over 95 per cent of all businesses here.
Sinn Féin has an all-Ireland vision. We want a United Ireland based on equality. We are closer to that goal than at any other time in our history. To achieve it we need strong political representation, North and South. The more votes we have the more change we can make.

All politics is local and North Belfast leads from the front in equality. We have 12 candidates running in the assembly and council elections on the 5th May, six women and six men. We have worked for and achieved gender balance in elections going back to 1988.
Make your vote count. Be an active part of our struggle.

Planning law changes may not affect decisions on dormer windows

Sinn Féin Councillor Danny Lavery has warned local people not to get their hopes up after the environment minister announced he is to relax planning laws from next month.
Danny said the dozens of homeowners across North Belfast who were told they could build dormer windows without planning permission are unlikely to be given a reprieve in the new announcement.

He said he is dealing with a number of local people who were told they could install dormer windows without planning permission and are now at odds with planning law.

“The relaxing of the law has to be welcomed, but I would urge people not to get their hopes up,” said Danny.

“This latest announcement does not include retrospective applications, which means that those who already have them will not be automatically given permission.
“It is also likely to mean that dormer windows at the side of a house will be ok but those at the front will not. Many householders will still be left in the same position,” said the Sinn Féin representative.

Sinn Féin is at the cutting edge of breaking generations of discrimination – Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin’s North Belfast team are leading the way on equality by standing six men and six women in the forthcoming elections in May.
Sinn Féin officially launched their campaign in the area this week and are confident they can feed on their success in last month’s elections in the South when they more than trebled their number of seats.

“Standing six women and six men in May’s elections is a clear demonstration of our commitment to the full range of equality battles,” said MLA Carál Ní Chuilín.
“From housing and regeneration to leisure and safer communities, North Belfast Sinn Féin is at the cutting edge of breaking generations of discrimination.

“Of course we are very positive after significant advances in the recent Dáil elections. We are confident of our record in North Belfast, in the Assembly and the City Council and our vision for the way forward.”
However Carál added that Sinn Féin will be fighting for every vote.

“Even our critics would concede that Sinn Féin are both hard working and very determined. However, we won't be taking one single vote for granted.
“Increasing our representation is key to advancing our programme of leadership across Ireland.

“It's about making people's lives better today as we set out our clear vision for the Ireland we are shaping for tomorrow.
“We are all up for the election campaign in the weeks ahead and this is the strongest team we have ever put forward.”

Along with Carál Ní Chuilín, Gerry Kelly will be running for the Assembly along with a third candidate, JJ Magee.

The party will also be running three candidates in Newtownabbey - Gerry O'Reilly, Marie Mackessy and Mary Gillen - for the Council elections on the same day.
For Belfast City Council Sinn Féin are putting forward Danny Lavery, Conor Maskey, Gerry McCabe, Mary Clarke, Tierna Cunningham and Mary Ellen Campbell.

Disadvantaged communities will welcome additional funding from the Executive

Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly has welcomed the news that the £80 million Social Development Fund is to be rolled out across some of the most deprived areas in the Six Counties.

“This is indeed welcome news for some of the north’s most socio-economically deprived communities; I have no doubt those people working tirelessly on the ground will welcome today’s announcement,” said Gerry.

“The Executive set itself an objective of targeting disadvantage and supporting those most vulnerable within our community; this additional £80 million is about tackling that same disadvantage, about tackling dereliction and about tackling directly the effects that poverty and other disadvantage has on our people, not least issues around mental health, physical wellbeing, access to training and employment etc.

“This news should be welcomed by all of those who make prioritising working class and disadvantaged communities their benchmark.”

Local councilors raise roof extensions issue with minister

Sinn Féin Councillors Danny Lavery and Gerard McCabe have raised the issue of local roof extensions with the Minister for the Environment at the Assembly.

The meeting follows a number of North Belfast residents being served with enforcement notices by the Planning Service due to extensions on their homes.

Many residents didn’t apply for or were not granted planning permission and therefore
Planning Service often takes action against the “unauthorised developments”.
Danny Lavery said he raised the issue of cowboy builders, who he says are advising residents that planning permission is not required.

“These are the ones who should be made to pay, not the people who live in the area,” said Danny.

“Extensions can cost around £10,000 and £8,000 is being sought to return the home to its former state leaving people out of pocket in difficult economic times. He said the Minister Edwin Poots wasn’t able to give any guarantees but would look into the matter.”

Don't silence yourself - get registered

Sinn Féin is urging everyone of eligible voting age to ensure that they are in a position to exercise their right to vote in the Assembly and Council Elections being held on Thursday 5th May and in the Referendum being held on the same day.

“I would urge everyone who will be 18 or over on the Thursday 5th May to ensure that they are in a position to exercise their democratic right to vote in the Assembly and local council elections being held on this day,” said MLA Gerry Kelly.

“Firstly, everyone should ensure that they are on the Electoral Register. The cut off date to register is 14th April.

“Secondly, everyone should ensure that they have one of the following forms of photographic ID:

• An official Electoral Office issued ID card
• An Irish or British passport
• A North of Ireland or British Driving Licence with your photograph
• A passport of any other EU member state
• A Translink 60+ Smart Pass
• A Translink Senior Smart-Pass
• A Translink Blind Person’s Smart-Pass
• A Translink War Disabled Smart-Pass

“Thirdly, if you are: housebound due to illness; a student away at University: working away from home during weekdays; or away on holiday on May 5th you are entitled to apply for what is termed as an ABSENT POSTAL or PROXY vote. The deadline to apply for an Absent Vote is 11th of April.

"Electoral Registration forms/Electoral ID and/or postal/proxy registration forms can be downloaded from the Electoral Office Website: www.electoralofficeni.gov.uk. Alternatively these same forms can be secured from the local Sinn Féin office at Teach Carney 90740817.”

Wrong call on phone mast in New Lodge

New Lodge councilor Conor Maskey has backed residents of Henry Street in the New Lodge who are fighting the proposed erection of a mobile phone mast near their homes.

Last week residents gathered at the site of the proposed mast on Henry Street, near the junction of Earl Close, in protest at the Vodafone and O2 mast.
Residents fear the mast could encourage anti-social behaviour with youths using it as a meeting point. They say they are also concerned about levels of radiation emitted from the base station.

“Henry Street and Earl Close are densely populated streets and there are obvious worries in relation to health implications and creating a gathering points for youths,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.

Maskey welcomes Alexandra Park funds

Sinn Féin Councillor Conor Maskey said a steering group set up to oversee the regeneration of Alexandra Park have secured funding of £49,000 towards its ambitious plans to make the facility more accessible to all communities.

The plans include seating, picnic tables and a woodland walk in the lower section of the park, a nature trail path clearance and seating area at Alexandra Park Avenue.
Conor said the project will provide much needed facilities for both sections of the local community.

“It will provide young people and other residents with the opportunity to become actively involved in the regeneration of their local park thereby promoting involvement and enhancing ownership and pride in our local park,” said Conor.

Representatives from Newington, Parkside and Castleton Residents Association have been working alongside representatives from Tigers Bay, Mountcollyer, Camberwell Terrace, Alexandra Park Avenue and Dunmore estate over the past 18 months through the steering group.

“The consultation has identified the need for the project and ongoing meetings have prioritised that need,” said Conor, who is a member of the Parks Steering Group

The group secured £49,792 worth of funding through the Alpha Programme which is managed by community regeneration group Groundwork NI.
A further £50,000 towards the plans will come from through the EU’s Peace III programme Reconciling Communities Through Regeneration (RCTR).

Regeneration of the local area was key in tackling redundancies - Gerry Kelly

Gerry Kelly said regeneration of the local area was key in tackling the redundancy figures following the release of statistics that show North Belfast had the third highest rate of redundancy in the north last year.

The latest statistics released by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment yesterday (Wednesday) show in the period between January 2010 and January 2011, the north of the city saw 190 confirmed redundancies, third only to South Belfast’s 391 and East Belfast’s 351.

However, compared to the previous 12-month period, North Belfast actually showed a decrease in redundancies, with the figure of 190 down from 272 the year before.

The figures for the whole of the north for the period showed a total of 2,168 redundancies, down from 4,592 the year before.

“North Belfast has been at the top of multiple deprivation indicies for generations and regeneration is the key to tackling this inequality,” said the North Belfast MLA.

“This harsh economic environment, coupled with Tory cuts of £4 billion to the budget will hit the poorest hardest.

“It’s essential we grow the business opportunities across Ireland and counter the strategy of slashing the hard pressed public sector. What we have must be targeted to protect the vulnerable and invest in growth.”

Gerry added this week’s announcements regarding ASDA’s pull-out of its proposed store on the Hillview Road and the political row surrounding the Girdwood barracks was evidence not enough was currently being done to challenge the redundancy figures.

“Front-line services such as the Mater Hospital, which is North Belfast’s biggest employer, must be supported and developed, along with the University of Ulster expansion at York Street.

“Controversy over ASDA and Girdwood clearly show many barriers must be overcome to avail of regeneration opportunities, and that needs political leadership.

“Unfortunately, some remain in the past and are vetoing progress to protect narrow political interest. Sadly, it’s the whole community that suffers from that regressive agenda.”

Kelly and Maskey meet Matt Baggott following his comments on McGurk’s bombing

Sinn Féin MLA’s Gerry Kelly and Alex Maskey met with PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott on his comments after the release of the Police Ombudsman’s report into the investigation into the McGurks Bombing Massacre.

“Matt Baggott’s comments following the release of the Ombudsman’s report, which identified investigative bias into the original RUC investigation of the McGurks Bar Massacre were unacceptable and deeply hurtful to the McGurks survivors and families of those killed,” said Gerry Kelly after the meeting.

“PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott had the unprecedented opportunity to bring some closure to the families with the findings of the Ombudsman’s Report; instead he rejected it, causing deep hurt not only to the families involved but also to the wider community.

“At the meeting with the Chief Constable we emphasised that it’s still not too late for him to show we are in a new departure in terms of policing. We urged him to engage with the families and to publicly admit the trauma hurt and wrongdoing inflicted upon the survivors of the McGurk’s and relatives of those who lost their lives.”

North Belfast community must know when Girdwood housing will be built – Gerry Kelly

“I welcome the announcement that 200 social and affordable homes are to be built on the former Girdwood military site,” said Gerry Kelly.

“However, this is a repeat of an announcement made by Margaret Ritchie a considerable time ago, when she was DSD Minister. What people languishing on the housing waiting list in north Belfast really want to know, after eight years, is when exactly will construction on this site begin and finish.

“The steering group for the regeneration of this site, which included the DUP, published a mission statement which put housing as a core requirement, alongside leisure, education and health facilities.

“It is unfortunate that the DUP later reneged on this mission statement.

“If Alex Attwood is not simply electioneering then we need to know when exactly the housing development at Girdwood will begin and be completed.”

DUP reaction to Girdwood housing plans sectarian – Carál Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin’s Carál Ní Chuilín said the DUP’s reaction to this week’s announcement that 200 social homes are to be built in a nationalist area in North Belfast has brought the party’s sectarianism into full view.

“The DUP veto on equality must be faced down,” said Carál.
“They are blocking all aspects of regeneration for the whole North Belfast community rather than have one single home for a nationalist on Girdwood.”
She also challenged Alex Attwood to follow through on his plans for Girdwood.

“Let me be crystal clear about Sinn Féin's position. We have campaigned for eight years for 200 social and affordable homes on this site and they should be allocated on the basis of need. If Alex Attwood is serious about joining the battle for equality we will back him 100 per cent.”

ASDA engaged in Bully Boy Tactics says Kelly

Gerry Kelly has slammed ASDA's bully boy tactics as they announced they are pulling out of a proposed North Belfast development when their drinks licence was rejected. The Sinn Fein MLA said;

"Pulling out of a huge development because they couldn't sell cheap drink is simply bully boy tactics by ASDA." said Gerry.

This proposal would have regenerated the surrounding deprived communities providing local jobs, local investment and food shopping within walking distance for the community of Ardoyne and the Crumlin Road.

ASDA's aggressive marketing strategy is imposing a one size fits all model and it's take it or leave it for our community.
The courts rejection of ASDA's application for a drinks licence must be respected.

ASDA's treatment of local people is contemptible at a time when we are making every effort to deal with alcohol sales in a responsible, community orientated way."

Change to Antrim Road parking rules would be boost for business and shoppers – JJ Magee

Sinn Féin's JJ Magee said a review by the Department for Regional Development on the potential relaxation of urban clearway restrictions on the Antrim Road is a “real boost for business and shoppers”.

After pressure from local Sinn Féin representatives, DRD minister Conor Murphy has agreed to begin a consultation process to see how a relaxation of the laws would affect the local community.

Currently motorists cannot park on the sections of the Antrim Road between 4.30pm and 6pm and local traders say it is affecting their businesses.

Traders say it would be more beneficial for shoppers if the urban clearway rules were applied only to city-bound traffic in the mornings and country-bound traffic in the evenings.

“We wrote to the Minister urging that the clearways be reviewed to aid access to local shops and facilities,” said JJ Magee.

“The introduction of bus lanes means that parking restrictions are no longer required according to business owners. So this targeted review should bring the same benefits to Antrim Road traders as it did in other comparable parts of Belfast.

“The consultation will give residents and traders alike the opportunity to have their voice heard and I’m encouraging people to take part.”

Local people must reclaim Whitewell park

Sinn Féin councillor Mary Ellen Campbell said Finlay Park in the Whitewell area must be reclaimed by local people.

A meeting of residents was held to discuss the park, which is on the verge of closure due to vandals destroying the play equipment.

The park has been targeted by vandals on a regular basis over the last number of years by vandals who have been destroying the kids play area. The equipment was destroyed a number of times last year with Belfast City Council being forced to pay to repair the damaged and arsoned play facilities.

The council is now understood to be contemplating not repairing the equipment again because of the repeated vandalism every time it is repaired. Over the past few years thousands of pounds have been spent replacing the play facilities.

"With leisure resources in North Belfast at a premium it's essential the community publicly reclaims Finlay Park,” said Mary Ellen.
“Recent vandalism has caused thousands of pounds of damage to the family play area putting its future in doubt.

“We have pressed the PSNI to act and confiscate drink from the gangs drinking in the park. We are also working with the council to save this community facility. It's vital residents stand up and ensure Whitewell is a safe family-friendly environment.

“The vast majority of our young people are a credit to the community and shouldn't be tarnished by these few individuals wrecking our park."

Sinn Féin representative Tierna Cunningham said by following the example set by other areas the park can be reclaimed.
“The example of residents’ actions in Ardoyne and the New Lodge with The Pitch and Mitch and North Queens Street Park can help secure Finlay Park’s future,” she said.

Focus on Glengormley

Gerry Kelly said this week that the regeneration of Glengormley is a key priority for Sinn Féin.



The North Belfast MLA was speaking during a walkabout in the area with party colleague and Minister for Regional Development Conor Murphy.

A Sinn Féin delegation including Gerry Kelly accompanied his Assembly Executive colleague Conor Murphy on a walk about of Glengormley.

"Regenerating Glengormley is a key priority for Sinn Fein,” said Gerry.
“After a series of meetings with local people including traders, we invited Conor to view for himself the problems confronting Glengormley.

“Transport links, parking and traffic flow were just some of the difficulties we focused on today.
“Glengormely has seen a population surge in recent years. However the infrastructure hasn't kept pace. Breaking down the barriers to regeneration is vital and today's focus on the area will go some way to giving Glengormley the priority it certainly deserves."

Local Sinn Féin activist Gerry O'Reilly said that Newtownabbey Council has been one of the worst examples of partizan politics in the north and that having two Executive Ministers here today is significant.
“There's a stark contrast between the equality protections in the Assembly and the uncontrolled sectarianism of unionist controlled councils like Newtownabbey." said O'Reilly.

Bad policing to be challenged

Sinn Féin Councillor Gerry McCabe said he will be meeting with the PSNI in the coming days to discuss their actions during a disturbance in Ardoyne last week.

McCabe said attempts to relate this incident to the funeral of IRA Volunteer Peter ‘Skeet’ Hamilton earlier that day are simply mischievous.

“The blame for this drunken brawl lies squarely with those involved. Responsible community activists acted to calm an easily managed situation and were abused by PSNI officers who over reacted.

“We will be tackling this unacceptable behaviour using the accountability mechanisms of the Police Ombudsman's office. We will also be meeting local PSNI chiefs on behalf of our constituents clearly challenging any examples of bad policing."

Two former republican prisoners who were sprayed with CS gas after they tried to intervene during the disturbance are to make a complaint to the Police Ombudsman.

Ardoyne Women's Group get top chef tips on International Women's Day

Renown celebrity chef from the New Lodge Danny Millar was back in North Belfast this week to help a local women’s group celebrate International Women’s Day - and to rustle up a few pancakes for Shrove Tuesday.

Danny was the guest of Ardoyne Women’s Group as they launched their Strategic Three Year Plan at Ardoyne Community Centre on what was the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

North Belfast’s only female MLA, Carál Ní Chuilín and party activist Mary Clarke joined Danny, head chef at Balloo House restaurant in Comber, as the women’s group set out their objectives for the coming years.

Danny, who was born and raised in the New Lodge, paid tribute to the group and the work they do while Sally Smyth, project co-ordinator with the group, said she was delighted that both Danny and Carál were able to join them.
Carál Ní Chuilín said the services that organisations like Ardoyne Women’s Group provides are essential.

“Although they are based in Ardoyne they work across North Belfast and they have lobbied quite heavily to get resources for women across the area,” said the Sinn Féin MLA who said women have always been at the heart of the community in North Belfast and always will be.

“In North Belfast there is the history of conflict that women came through. They were and are carers and survivors and with projects like this they are moving on and I am more than happy to support that.”

Ardoyne Women’s Group are based at Ardoyne Community Centre and can be contacted on 02890 743536 or ardoynewomensgroup@hotmail.com.

Bombscare pranksters need to wise up - McCabe

Oldpark councillor Gerry McCabe called on those responsible for planting a deliberate hoax device and causing disruption to the community in Ardoyne to ‘wise up’.

A controlled explosion was carried out on the object that was taped to a lamppost on Jamaica Road yesterday morning.

Dozens of residents were evacuated but they were able to return to their homes yesterday afternoon after police declared the object, which is believed to be baked bean cans taped together, a hoax.

“This prank is totally unacceptable because of the disruption caused to residents in Jamaica Road,” said Gerry.

“There are a lot of elderly people and young families living in this area and the last thing they need is to be put out of their homes because of a prank. I would call on the people who done this to wise up because it could very easily have been members of their own family that they are disrupting.”

A sloppy mistake says Kelly

Gerry Kelly has dismissed the SDLP's description of Irish electoral registration leaflets being in a foreign language, as rather funny.
"I suppose the SDLP are cringing at their description of Irish as a foreign language.

I'm sure it was a sloppy mistake which they wish they could take back. However it isn't exactly out of sync with recent remarks from Margaret Ritchie about not interfering in Irish politics," said Gerry.

"There must have been some red SDLP faces as they gathered in Belfast this week to stoop before British Royals. The SDLP are a party in search of an identity.

"Their current strategy of attacking Sinn Féin and getting into bed with the UUP/Torys will baffle most nationalists who want to see a united front on all equality campaigns.
First it was the oath to the British Queen now Irish is a foreign language, dear oh dear, a Freudian mistake perhaps?"

Concerns for Royal Exchange project are another SDLP distraction - Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín, has stated that the concerns raised by Alex Attwood into the delay of the Royal Exchange project are a distraction to the SDLP’s failure to endorse the budget.

“Alex Attwood is attempting to distract in any way he can from the SDLP’s failure to endorse the budget by utilising any argument he can. He flags up irrational fears about a delay to this project while stating that the project will still go ahead in the same statement. His concerns for the Royal Exchange project are clearly being exaggerated to suit," said the member of the Social Development Committee at the Assembly.

“In reality this project has been moved back by only one year, a project which his party leader, Margaret Ritchie, as Social Development Minister, wanted to scrap and move the money into social housing.

“Sinn Féin as a party saw the merits of this project, stood up for it then and protected this vital regeneration scheme. We remain committed to this project.

“What Alex Attwood is not stating is that the money which has been re-allocated has been moved to meet the short fall within health and education. Is he now saying that he disagrees with this approach and would rather see these two key areas suffer as a result?

“The SDLP have been negative for negative sake on this budget and this is another glaring example of that approach.”

Peter ‘Skeet’ Hamilton

Republicans all over Ireland were saddened to learn of the death on Friday 25 February of IRA Volunteer Peter ‘Skeet’ Hamilton in County Louth.

Peter joined the the ranks of the Third Battalion’s ‘A’ Company in early 1971 at the age of 17 in his home area of Ardoyne. During the course of the struggle Peter spent more than 20 years in British jails.

He enjoyed only a few months of freedom after his first spell in prison between 1971 and 1975, before spending more than 17 years in jail from 1975 until his release in the early 1990s.

During his time in prison Peter was one of the Republican prisoners who fought hand to hand with the British army during the burning of Long Kesh.
Peter was a determined volunteer who was much admired by his comrades both inside and outside the prisons.

He attempted to escape on at least three occasions, once from a Belfast Courthouse and twice with local Sinn Féin MLA Gerry Kelly, including the Great Escape from the H-Blocks in 1983.

Peter reported back to active service with the IRA despite his long spells of imprisonment and had to leave his home again in 1994 after escaping arrest in Ardoyne.
He moved to Dundalk in County Louth and immediately became a well known figure in the town, earning the respect and affection of his comrades.

Peter worked until shortly before his death at the ex-prisoners’ centre in Dundalk, Fáilte Abhaile which provides support and care for former Republican prisoners in the border area.

Last year he campaigned for his old friend and comrade Gerry Kelly in the Westminster elections and on the morning of his death he was one of the first people in County Louth to cast his vote for Gerry Adams.
North Belfast Sinn Féin offers its condolences to Peter’s grieving family and we will carry a more complete obituary in our next edition.
Óglach den scoith ab ea é.

Sudden death of respected Whitewell Republican

Tributes have been paid to a committed Whitewell republican Jim Gillen who died suddenly in late February after suffering a heart attack.

The former republican POW was well known in the Greencastle/Whitewell area. His daughter Mary is preparing to stand for Sinn Féin in the upcoming council elections and the father of three and grandfather of six recently became a great grandfather.

Chair of the local Sinn Féin cumann Conor Cunningham paid tribute to the 66-year-old who, he said, was at the forefront of republican activity in the area.

“Jim was a very valued and respected member of the cumann. He was active in the 1970s and 1980s and was instrumental when the area became a target for loyalism in bringing people together and organising,” he said.

“Everyone looked up to him. I was actually on my way to see him on Tuesday night when his daughter called with the news, it is a very sad day. He will be greatly missed.”

Former councillor in the area Tierna Cunningham said the respected great grandfather will be sadly missed.

“Jim was an inspiration to me personally, someone who I admired and respected for his dedication to our struggle. Jim was a republican activist from before I was born, and right up until he died he was at the forefront, providing energy and driving forward Republican politics,” she said.

“Jim had a great political analysis. He was extremely proud of his history as an IRA volunteer and former POW and he brought that proud tradition into his work as a party activist.

“His point of view carried authority, we all respected Jim and listened to what he had to say. He was such a character too, brilliant company always up for a bit of craic. I can still see him now marching up the road with his stick and aul’ Sanchez in tow.

“Very recently he was filled with great pride as his daughter Mary had been selected to stand as a candidate for Sinn Féin in the upcoming elections.

“He was looking forward to getting out on the campaign trail to support her.

“We will miss him greatly, all our thoughts and prayers are with Gillen family at this time.”

Jim Gillen was buried in Our Lady’s Acre cemetery at Longlands after Requiem Mass in St Mary’s Church, Greencastle. Thug sé a raibh aige ar son saoirse na hÉireann.

Building an Ireland of Equals

By Carál Ní Chuilín
There's no doubt in my mind that Sinn Féin's performance in last week’s 26-County election was highly significant.

More than trebling our representation from the previous general election was remarkable. But like every other milestone, typical of Irish Republicans, it's banked, and our sights are set on the next objective on the road to Irish Unity.

That is the nature of building an All Ireland strategy based on core republican principles of equality. Sinn Féin is now the second largest party across Ireland. We are committed to using that mandate to challenge the politics of exclusion, be that for the vulnerable who never even saw the benefits of the Celtic Tiger in the south, or in the north those that still battle daily for social justice in education, housing and jobs.

Unfortunately the new Fine Gael/Labour coalition appears committed to implementing the anti-worker policies of the previous administration.
Sinn Féin will be an effective and radical opposition to that with such a strong team. Gains across Ireland will enable us to extend our representation.

Sinn Féin's 14 TD’s, like our MLA’s in the North will be getting an industrial wage as using our resources to build campaigns for equality is the key to breaking the mold.

Political power for Irish Republicans is about change. The greater the political strength the quicker those necessary changes can be made. We set out a positive, clear vision for the way forward and that message was supported and we will treat that mandate with respect.

This week 30 years ago Bobby Sands began his hunger strike. For many of my generation that period was the defining point in modern republicanism. On May 5th it will be 30 years since Bobby died. It will also be Election Day in the North. I'm no different from any of my neighbours; I get frustrated at the pace of change.

However, if the results of last week’s election teach us anything, it's that through hard work and building communities and equality campaigns, we will deliver our political objectives.

In North Belfast just as across Ireland we will be standing on our track record of dedication and hard work. We will be presenting our vision for the way ahead based on challenging inequality and improving people's daily lives.

We will not be taking one single vote for granted. But be assured, if you are a pensioner that can't afford to heat your home - a student facing huge debt to be educated - a family stuck on the housing waiting list for years - or having your benefit slashed to force you into jobs that don't exist, Sinn Féin will always be your voice in every elected chamber in Ireland.

On your watch

Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has slammed the failed North Belfast housing policy.
The party’s Social Development spokesperson hit out at housing chiefs and the SDLP Minister after alarming figures disclosed that up to 95-per-cent of the North Belfast waiting list will be Nationalist by 2012.
“These figures are alarming and totally disgraceful,” said carál.

“The SDLP have abolished vital equality protections on their watch, resulting in this deepening crisis.
Gerry Kelly and I are meeting top Housing Executive chiefs this week to ask where are the houses?

“We will be challenging them strongly, on behalf of this community. The SDLP are quick to wrap themselves in the politics of civil rights and speak the language of equality. However, when it comes to delivery their record in the Social Development Ministry is pitiful.

“The fact that up to 95-per-cent of people waiting for homes will be nationalist by 2012 is abject failure in anyone's language," said Sinn Fein MLA

Campaigning for Ardoyne

Sinn Féin Councillor Gerry McCabe has brought the Ardoyne community's campaign to the heart of government. Sport, evictions and youth services were raised by the delegation with the DSD Minister on Monday
"Ardoyne's voice needs heard at every opportunity and I raised threatened evictions, youth funding and sports facilities with the DSD Minister," said the Ardoyne councillor.
"Sinn Féin have been campaigning for local tenants under threat of eviction due to property companies going bust and I took this chance to put it on the minister’s table.
“The Bone Hills leisure proposal was also raised along with concerns about short term funding from the SDLP Minister for long term youth projects," said Gerry.
"While it is vital to continue to press home the concerns of Ardoyne people I'm not convinced we heard the answers we needed from Alex Attwood. However we will engage positively with government to advance every equality battle."

Praise for Newington residents

Sinn Fein's Mary Clarke has welcomed builders in Newington pledge to secure sites after hours.
"Children are climbing up scaffolding into building sites and are at risk of serious injury,” said Mary.
“This site in Newington needs secured after hours as children will naturally explore and aren't aware of the dangers involved.
“I fully support the work of the Newington Residents to have this site secured and am appealing to local parents to keep children away from building sites.
“These homes are much needed by this community and it’s essential building work is completed safely.
“Damage is also being caused to the site by vandalism and securing the area is in everyone's interest.
“The pledge to secure this site is welcome and praise must go to local people for ensuring children are kept safe," said the Sinn Féin spokesperson.

Leaders must lead – Lavery

After the latest attack on a Fire Crew in North Belfast. Sinn Féin's Danny Lavery said it is important we defend our workers.
“Yet again Fire Crews have been attacked as they came to the rescue of our community,” said Danny.
“Every single time this happens leaders must lead from the front. I'm publicly challenging those responsible that your reckless, mindless actions could cause someone’s death, it's as stark and as dangerous as that.
“This community is 100-per-cent behind our Fire Crews and we are showing that here today in the face of this latest disgusting attack.
“Be it workers injured or fire engines damaged, just stop and think, it could easily be your own family who's life is being put at risk." said the Sinn Féin Councillor.

Mental health services being under-resourced – Ní Chuilín

Local Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has questioned why the numbers of patients on waiting lists to see a mental health consultant are not being kept by area.

Ní Chuilín was speaking after she submitted a written question in the Assembly to health minister Michael McGimpsey asking for a breakdown of how many people are on the mental health waiting list by constituency area.

However the minister responded saying the information is not available in that format. The Health and Social Care Board keep waiting list figures by Trust area, but not by areas such as North or West Belfast.

The Sinn Féin MLA said in an area such as North Belfast where depression and mental health problems are widespread, figures for how many people are on the waiting list should be available.

“The fact that mental health statistics are not held to show how many and how long people are waiting to see a professional is just not acceptable,” said Ní Chuilín.
“It’s a further indication of mental health services being under-resourced and the Cinderella Service of the health department.

“In North Belfast with such high levels of suicide and self harm, how can the health service be held to account effectively if we can’t measure performance through factual data?

“We wouldn’t accept this in any other public body and given we are talking about our most vulnerable citizens with mental health needs, this revelation is completely outrageous.”

Councillor acts on sports pitch flooding

Local councillor Gerard McCabe said flooding at the multi sports facility in the Waterworks needs remedied after children turning up for soccer training recently were told the sessions could not go ahead because of health and safety reasons.

McCabe said the facility is one of the few sites for kids in the area and that it was resurfaced in August last year to the cost of £38,000.

"Obviously the job needs to be looked at again because of the flooding in vast areas of the pitch. The fact that young kids aren't able to use the facility makes this even more urgent,” said the Sinn Féin representative.
"It is used not only by young people but also for late night soccer and if it rains users run the risk of being hurt on the surface.

"Due to the fact that this facility is open late nights at weekends to give young people an alternative to standing on street corners, the problem needs to be address as a matter of urgency."
He also added that he will be looking into the lack of changing facilities at the site.

"The sports facility is used by approximately 70,000 visitors per year and there are no changing facilities for young people. I am aware that there was money available but because of difficulties over planning it was shelved. I will be taking up the issue with Belfast City Council's parks and leisure department," said Gerard.

Finucane anniversary remembered with artwork

A new piece of artwork in memory of Pat Finucane was unveiled on the eve of the 22nd anniversary of the solicitor’s murder, Pat’s brother Seamus Finucane represented the Finucane family at Relatives for Justice’s Falls Road office where the art was unveiled.

The glass mosaic is the work of local artist Paul McGivern who said he was “honoured” to have been able to create the work in memory of the North Belfast human rights solicitor who was gunned down by the UDA at his family home in Fortwilliam on February 12 1989.
Pat’s brother Seamus told those assembled that he hopes justice will prevail in his brother’s case.

“After 22 years we are still trying to achieve truth and justice,” he said. “In that struggle, the human dimension may have been lost. Twenty-two years ago today I met my wife, she never met Pat. Now I have a granddaughter who has never seen Pat. Sadly, there are many families like us. We now hope the British government will do the right thing and implement an independent inquiry into Pat’s death.

“I want to thank RFJ for organising this, it’s a real honour to be here. I want to thank Paul, who found the energy, time and inspiration to pay tribute to Pat. This is a very fitting site for the artwork.”

RFJ’s JJ Magee paid tribute to the Finucane family for their determination over the past 22 years.
“It has been 22 years since Pat was brutally murdered,” he said.
“Pat was a family man, a husband, a father, a brother, a colleague and an officer of the court who represented many of the families who work with RFJ in their quest for justice.Credit must go to the Finucane family who, despite every obstacle that has been placed before them, continue their search for justice. The determination to get the truth is still there.

“When we lift the lid on what happened to Pat, we lift the lid on the collusion that took place in other incidents.
“As a friend of Pat's I am very honoured to be here with Seamus Finucane to unveil the portrait. This mural is very much at home here at RFJ.”

Victory in education campaign

Speaking as it was announced in the Assembly that the UUP Minister wouldn't abolish the Education Maintenance Allowance, Sinn Féin Councillor Mary Ellen Campbell said the announcement is very welcome.

"Sinn Féin have campaigned for our young people to be supported through EMA and this announcement is very welcome.

“Our most disadvantaged students will continue to be funded to stay in education rather than be forced into a low waged and stagnant job market."

“Tory slash and burn policies have abolished this allowance in England at the stroke of a pen. This Assembly decision is a clear example of power in local people's hands being used to stop that right wing reactionary agenda.

“We will be holding the Minister to his word on this issue on behalf of our most disadvantaged young people.”

Kelly hosts visually impaired social inclusion event in Assembly

Gerry Kelly hosted an event in the Assembly for people with visual impairments from North Belfast and beyond who are campaigning for social inclusion.

At a special reception in the building’s Long Gallery, Duncairn Gardens-based group Visual Access NI demonstrated the range of equipment available to people experiencing sight loss, they also encouraged politicians to do more to ensure they are not socially excluded.

Kelly said his own political advisor, Colm Glover, is a great example of how people can succeed in society and manage sight loss.
“Colm is in his job because he is good at his job and the visual impairment has not prevented him from doing the job effectively and that is the way it should be for everybody,” said the North Belfast MLA.

“Not only is Visual Access NI in the centre of North Belfast, it is also in an interface area and Tommy Hughes (who runs Visual Access NI) was able to bring his small business right through and he needs congratulations for that. We are here as a resource for this lobby.

“Government departments must tackle social exclusion particularly given that the vast majority of the community living with sight loss are older people.”

Sinn Féin call for immediate release of Brendan Lillis

Sinn Féin MLA for West Belfast, Pat Sheehan, has called for the immediate release of Brendan Lillis, currently being held in Maghaberry Prison.

“Sinn Féin is totally opposed to former political prisoners being held in prison by revoking their licence," said Pat.

“Now that the charges against Brendan Lillis are not being brought forward he should be released immediately.

“Given the urgency of Brendan Lillis’ medical condition he should not be in prison.

“Sinn Féin has been in contact with Owen Patterson, the British Secretary of State, and the Sentence Review Commission and we have called on them to deal with this case without delay.”

Students react angrily to British army recruitment at Queens University

Students have reacted angrily to members of the Royal Irish Regiment recruiting outside Queens University once again. The regiment of the British Army opened a recruitment stall today accompanied by two British soldiers in full military regalia trying to recruit students.

These recruitment drives have been ongoing with the British Army having a stall at the fresher’s fair in September and recruitment posters advertised within the Queens Students union etc.

The British army are an illegal force of occupation and should not be permitted to recruit on campus. A university should be a neutral environment free from offensive literature and posters that only serve to promote an atmosphere of exclusion and segregation.

Student and QUB Sinn Féin activist Megan Fearon said:

“I was appalled at the presence of the British Army at the university today. The British war machine is an occupying force in Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan, and should not be allowed to recruit young Irish students.

"It is a disgrace that following the outrage and controversy the RIR ‘victory parade’ caused, that they would choose to target vulnerable students, who in the current economic climate are faced with unemployment issues, this is taken advantage of.

"They promise students adventure, excitement and a good career prospect when in reality all they will be doing is giving their lives to an imperialist power that will use them to invade and occupy other countries. The British army have no right to be in Ireland never mind our universities.

"I call on all Queens’s students to reject the presence of this war force on our campus and for the University to no longer permit them to recruit”.

Kelly condemns second north Belfast bomb alert

Sinn Féin MLA for north Belfast Gerry Kelly has condemned those responsible for both of today’s bomb scares in his constituency.

“This morning’s alert was caused by a viable device being left on the window sil of a house in Stratheden Street in the New Lodge and this evening’s alert was caused by a device left in a communal corridor in a communal block of flats at Cavehill Road," said Kelly.

"On both occasions these devices were found by members of the public. In both instances there were no warnings given despite these being viable devices.

"The reality we are dealing with is that people in our community could have lost their lives as a result of these reckless actions.

"I condemn it outright and people in north Belfast reject those responsible totally. The people carrying out these mindless actions need to stop now before someone is killed.”

New Lodge Six Commemoration

The New Lodge Six commemoration will take place tonight (Thursday February 3) at the New Lodge Memorial Garden in Donor Court (off the New Lodge Road) at 7pm. Speaker is North Belfast Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín

Ní Chuilín critical of jail sentence for young mother

North Belfast MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has criticised the three month sentence imposed on a young mother for stealing a £10 pair of jeans.

“I was outraged at both the sentence imposed by the Judge and his attempt to rationalise it,” said Carál.
“Courts must always act in the public interest in a proportionate and reasonable manner. This sentence was neither proportionate, reasonable or in the public interest.

“While we have been rightly critical of overly lenient sentencing for serious criminals in the past we also have a duty to criticise the actions of the judiciary when they are seen to be unacceptably harsh for minor offences that could be addressed through non-custodial alternatives.

“From all reports the Judge did not take account of a pre-sentence report that this woman was unlikely to re-offend or the affect this sentence would have on her young child. He failed to consider alternatives to custody.

“The Assembly is presently considering a new justice bill and Sinn Féin is putting forward proposals for alternatives to prosecution for many non-violent offences,” said the Sinn Féin MLA.

More misery inflicted on New Lodge residents – Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has called on those responsible for this morning’s bomb alert in the New Lodge to come forward and explain their actions to the community.

Speaking after visiting the scene of the alert Carál, who lives in the area, said;

“This morning we have had yet more misery inflicted upon the community in north Belfast and to what end?

What is the point in this and why are those responsible, if they are confident in their actions, stepping forward to, at the very least, try and give a rationale for what they are doing?

Its time these things stopped, the community in the New Lodge don’t want it.”

Attwood needs to provide clarity on Housing Executive compensation - Ní Chuilín

Sinn Féin MLA and member of the Social Development Committee, Carál Ní Chuilín, has stated that Alex Attwood needs to provide clarity on whether or not he has made a formal approach to the Office of First and deputy First Minister with regards to a compensation scheme for those Housing Executive tenants who had their property damaged as a result of the severe winter weather over Christmas

"This week Alex Attwood appeared in front of the Social Development committee in order to answer pressing questions on the Housing Executive and its role during the severe winter weather over Christmas," said Ní Chuilín,

"Many people were left for considerable periods with no heating and many more had their homes and furniture damaged by frozen and burst pipes. Hundreds of people were left in appalling conditions over Christmas.

"While at the committee, and subsequently in media reports, the Minster has alluded to the fact that he has contacted both Martin McGuinness and Peter Robinson in relation to compensation for those affected giving tenants a hope that something would be resolved and painting the Minster as proactive.

"However it is a great concern to myself and others that, in fact, these approaches have not happened. Is the Minister in it for the media spin, for the kudos of actually looking as if he is working to resolve this issue, building Housing Executive tenants expectations, only to pass the buck to the office of OFMdFM when he finds he cannot deliver?

"At best the Minister is muddled, at worst he has misled the committee and the public. What he needs to o now is come forward and provide immediate clarity on compensation for Housing Executive tenants."

Social housing should be on Nelson Street site - Kelly

After a Sinn Féin delegation met with Planning Service officials in relation to a controversial housing development at Nelson Street, local MLA Gerry Kelly said the community want social housing on the site.

The planning application for a massive housing development on the land which is at the centre of a police investigation was withdrawn from going before a Belfast City Council committee last week to allow for "high level discussions" between planners and the Housing Executive.

Originally the land was earmarked for an entire social housing project and was the subject of negotiations between Clanmil Housing Association, the Department for Social Development, the Housing Executive (HE) and the private landowner until 2006, when it was sold to Big Picture Developments (BPD). The PSNI was called in last year to investigate the Housing Executive's role in the zoning of the land.

The Planning Service recently approved plans to build 238 apartments on a stretch of land at Nelson Street, 181 of which will be private and just 57 social housing.

After a planning application is approved it goes before Belfast City Council's town planning committee who, although they do not have the power to throw out the application, can rule it should be sent back to the planners for further consideration.

However before it went before the committee last Thursday night the Planning Service withdrew the application from the agenda.

North Belfast Sinn Féin MLAs Carál Ní Chuilín and Gerry Kelly and councilor Danny Lavery met with Planning Service officials this week to discuss the developments.
"We are intent that this application be brought back and rethought, it's not what the community want. We do not want private housing on land that should be used for social housing and we told the planners that," said Gerry Kelly.

Praise for concrete move by local businessman

Sinn Féin councillor Gerard McCabe has praised a local businessman who took it upon himself to have an entry in Ardoyne resurfaced.
For years the entry that runs between Ardoyne shops and Balholm Drive has been a dumping ground for all manner of rubbish.

After government agencies refused to take responsibility for the entry a local businessman has resurfaced it, making it easier for business and homes to access the entry and empty bins.

Gerard McCabe said the problems stemmed from no-one taking responsibility for the entry and praised Jim Conlon, owner of The Chip Company, who moved into their new premises at the row of shops recently and has had the entry resurfaced.

“The problem is that it is an unadopted entry meaning no-one has taken responsibility for it. I have been working with Belfast City Council to try and find out who has responsibility for the entry and we will continue to do so,” said Gerard.

“On behalf of the local community we would like to thank Jim Conlon who has taken the initiative to resurface the entry.”

Mater not to be downgraded

Speaking at a meeting of the Mater Hospital Community Forum on Friday (January 21) Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín said there was genuine concern in the community that the Mater Hospital’s accident and emergency unit will be downgraded or even closed.
“There have been fears out there for some time that the Mater's A&E is going to be downgraded to a minor injuries unit, that needs to be clarified,” said Carál during the meeting.

Afterwards the North Belfast MLA said she had been assured that this was not the case.
“We were told categorically by the Chief Executive of the Belfast Trust Colm Donaghy that the Mater Accident and Emergency department will not be downgraded to a minor injuries unit.”
On Sunday, January 19 ambulances were diverted away from the Mater to the Royal Hospital and City Hospital.

Public meeting called to rescue Whitewell play park

Sinn Féin Councillor Mary Ellen Campbell said a small minority of public drinkers were destroying Finlay Park on the lower Whitewell Road and depriving local kids of a much-needed resource in the area.

The equipment was destroyed a number of times last year with Belfast City Council being forced to pay to repair the damaged and burnt play facilities.
The council is now understood to be contemplating not repairing the equipment again because of the repeated vandalism every time it is repaired. Over the past few years thousands of pounds have been spent replacing the play facilities.

"Residents are joining with us to rescue Finlay Park from the hands of a small number of local drinkers that are consistently destroying it," said Mary Ellen.
"We have brought this issue to the attention of police who are ready to make arrests. However the cost of the damage already done is huge and the part of the park under threat is used mostly by local young families.

“I've been contacted by local people appealing for us to join together to rescue this vital leisure service. We are now calling a public meeting to organise all involved in this campaign to rescue our park,” said the Sinn Féin Councillor.

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

Local Sinn Féin MLA Carál Ní Chuilín has welcomed the fact that the proposed development in Nelson Street by Big Picture Developments Ltd has been blocked by Belfast City Council however will be meeting with the planning authorities to seek clarity on media reports that planning permission had been granted .

“There are mounting concerns amongst residents and community organisation surrounding the proposed building of over 230 apartments at Nelson Street in North Belfast," said Ní Chuilín who is a member of the Social Development Committee.

“Last week, as the planning authorities put the proposal in front of Belfast City Council, the council saw fit, due to the high number of objections from residents, the Housing Executive and Sinn Féin to block the development yet only yesterday media reports had suggested that planning permission had been granted.

“Obviously this has caused upset to many who thought that the development would revert to the building of 66 family homes under the initial plan for social housing.

“Sinn Féin will be meeting with the planning authorities tomorrow in order to address these concerns. The fact that so many are against this development and are strongly behind keeping the spirit and make up of the local community intact cannot be ignored.

“I would hope that at tomorrows meeting many of the issues surrounding this controversial development can be cleared up.”

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

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


“The proposed development at Nelson Street by Big Picture Developments Ltd is shrouded in controversy. Initially the site was zoned for social housing and there was a plan to build 66 family homes there," said Ní Chuilín.

“It still remains zoned for this purpose but the company behind the plans has radically reduced the social housing element to 20% out of over 230 apartments.

“The initial plan has clearly been turned on its head with the involvement of Big Picture Developments, in residents views to the detriment of the local community and outrage across the board.

“Last week, as the planning authorities put the proposal in front of Belfast City Council, the council saw fit, due to the high number of objections from residents, the Housing Executive and Sinn Féin to block the development.

“This is a welcome development that is only tempered by the fact that the planners may well resubmit the same plans.

“I would urge those behind the development not to do so, to listen to the community and press on with the original social development that the people of North Belfast want.”

Kelly slams those responsible for Ardoyne punishment attack

Sinn Féin MLA for north Belfast Gerry Kelly has slammed those responsible for a punishment attack against a man in Ardoyne on Saturday.

“A young man was assaulted and humiliated by having paint thrown over him in public in Ardoyne. He was threatened not to talk to the police or the news media," said Kelly.

"Given that the action was deliberately public it was inconceivable that it would not be brought to the attention of either the media or the PSNI. If this issue wasn’t so serious it would be truly laughable and highlights the ridiculousness of this grouping.

"The members of the so-called “Óglaigh na hÉireann” group then returned on Sunday on the basis of newspaper reports and ordered the young man to leave the country; my understanding is that the young man in fact didn’t go the media himself.

"Let me be very clear, these people do not represent the community; I condemn their futile actions outright. If people have evidence of crime and anti-social activity then they should seek redress through the courts.”

All Ireland economic realities discussed at NSMC - McGuinness

Martin McGuinness MP MLA, speaking from the North South Ministerial Council, where a focus was placed on economic issues affecting people across the island of Ireland said:

“A number of issues in relation to the economy and the realisation that the all-Ireland economy is a reality were discussed including the revelation that NAMA will now hold in excess of £5bn worth of assets in the north of Ireland.

“Sinn Féin also raised the issues with regards to the regulation of the Quinn group and the fact that two of the banks operating in the north are owned, and regulated, from Dublin and the impact this has on customers in all parts of the island.

“Given these and other issues there is now a clear need to recognise the economic realities that exist and plan the economy on an all-Ireland basis.

“This is essential if we are to maximise economic growth through research and development to promote and enhance indigenous companies.

“Sinn Féin’s proposals for economic recovery have been published. These are based on growth through investment, job creation, and all-Ireland co-operation.

“The greater this co-operation the greater the delivery of substantial savings and stability. Evidence can be shown in more efficient and effective public service provision such as the cancer services at Altnagelvin, with the linkage of Letterkenny and Magee education campuses, and the A5 and A8 dualling projects.

“This is a very clear message that we will be putting to the people of Ireland in the forthcoming months and one that has already been widely accepted as a positive and constructive way forward.”

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

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

Speaking today Ms Ní Chuilín said:

“Serious concerns have arisen only days before the closing date for applications to the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. Community groups have not been made aware of vital criteria that is essential to their applications.

“There has been no clarity on whether the funding is for one or four years, on what is the criteria for assessment or if the department using previously submitted data to assess the applicants, or indeed will there be cuts to the amount of funding available?

“Any application for funding needs careful consideration by the applicant in order to ensure maximum success and continuity of projects and employment posts.

“Without the correct and proper guidance from the Department these groups have essentially been left to shoot in the dark and can only hope that they get the required funding.

“This is absolutely no way to run a funding programme. In these economic times the Minister is playing russian roulette with peoples jobs and with community service provision. He must, over the space of this weekend, provide clarity to these immediate and pressing issues.”

The change is good for local Gaels

North Belfast MLA Gerry Kelly said the start of the work on changing facilities at the Cricky pitch on the Cliftonville Road is a victory for local Gaels.

Work began this week on the long-awaited changing facilities on the pitch, which is used by the two local GAA clubs Ardoyne Kickhams and Pearses GAA clubs.

"It's been a hard fought battle for these changing facilities and if you recall, children were having to change at the side of the road to play here," said the Sinn Féin representative.

"We are delighted with the start of this work and the highest praise must go to the GAA for their determination during this campaign.

"It's a significant development, we overcame sectarianism in the city council to win this fight and I must say that the SDLP reversing their position to block these changing facilities for local young people was the right thing to do and hopefully they can join with us in future community leisure campaigns."

Councillor welcomes Ardoyne home repair scheme

Sinn Féin Councillor Gerard McCabe has commended all those involved after it was announced that more than 100 homes in the Ardoyne area are getting external improvements as part of a Housing Executive repair scheme.

The Housing Executive’s External Cyclical Maintenance Programme will carry out the work on 132 homes in the district including putting in uPVC windows in homes that have none and services of the windows of those that do.

The work will also include replacing any defective external doors and rainwater goods as well as carrying out repairs to roofs, chimneys, fencing, external walls, railings and paths, work which will be carried out prior to redecoration.

“This scheme is excellent news for the residents of the Jamaica/Havana area. I have been working closely with the Jamaica/Havana residents group and together we have developed an excellent working relationship with the Housing Executive’s North Belfast District Office.

"The Jamaica/Havana residents group and I would like to thank the officers involved for all their hard work and will continue to liaise with them to ensure the scheme progresses as smoothly as possible for all the residents involved,” said McCabe.

Bin burnings by anti-socials
Meanwhile McCabe said bin burning incidents near a sheltered housing facility in Ardoyne have come about after as alleyway has become a well-known hot-spot for anti-social behaviour.
Youths have been stealing black wheelie bins and burning them out in the alleyway that runs adjacent to Holyrood House on Flax Street.

“It is important that we get the appropriate agencies working together including Council and police,” he said.
He commended Belfast City Council for coming out to clean the area after recent incidents.

Deadline approaching for pensioners to avail of free Irish passports

North Belfast Sinn Féin councillor Mary Ellen Campbell has urged local pensioners who need an Irish passport to apply now before the entitlement to a free passport ends.

Mary Ellen called on locals not to miss the deadline for a free passport, which ends this month. Those over the age of 65 have been entitled to a free Irish passport since 2005, however the concession is due to end at the end of this month when they will be charged.

"I'm urging constituents to quickly avail of the remaining opportunity by calling to our Antrim Road office," said Mary Ellen.
"Irish passport entitlement is a very popular issue with constituents and we deal with a large volume of applications.

“As finances are limited currently I'm urging those over 65s concerned to act now and save themselves a substantial cost. The passport office aren't currently busy so you shouldn't have the difficulties many experienced last year,” said the Republican Councillor.

Tar Isteach move house

New Lodge based group X-prisoners group Tar Isteach are in the process of packing up their old base in the New Lodge to move to a bigger building beside the Antrim Road Baptist Church, facing Mannys chip shop.

The organisation was set up in 1999 to provide counselling and welfare rights advice for ex-republican prisoners and their families in the North Belfast area but has now expanded and offers advice, emotional support, youth provision and training and education to those that need it.
Project co ordinator Tommy Quigley said the new premises will allow all their services to be provided under the one roof. Funding is provided by the Peace III programme.

"With the regeneration work being planned for Hillman Street where our old premises were we knew we had to move so chose this spot here on the Antrim Road," said Quigley.
"Before we were divided between the Ashton Centre and Hillman Street but now it is all under one roof. We will still be providing the same service but from another location.

"Tar Isteach has grown so much over the years, now more than 2500 people are helped by us every year."
Service users are warned there may be some disruption over the coming weeks while the official move takes place.

"We will officially be moving on 27 January so there might be a bit of disruption in the next couple of weeks. We are telling people to just give us a ring to check.
“We are also updating our ex-prisoners database so any ex-prisoners in the area should get in touch with their contact details. This is a new phase for us in Tar Isteach and we will continue to make it the success that it is."
Contact Tar Isteach on 90754967