Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald Urges Party to Prepare for General Election
Dublin: Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on party members to gear up for the forthcoming general election. Delivering a pre-election address at the two-day Sinn Féin Ard Fheis, themed around preparing for Irish unity, McDonald laid out the party’s vision for the future, including a focus on a united Ireland and major reforms if Sinn Féin comes to power.
Key Reforms on Irish Unity and Governance
McDonald announced that, under a Sinn Féin-led government, the party would establish a Citizens’ Assembly to discuss and plan for Irish reunification. Additionally, she pledged the creation of a Minister for Referendums and Reunification within the Department of the Taoiseach to facilitate this process.
Criticism of Government and Healthcare Failures
In her keynote speech, McDonald launched a sharp critique of the current government, highlighting significant shortcomings, particularly in the health sector. She condemned Taoiseach Simon Harris for failing to deliver on a seven-year-old promise to reduce wait times for children requiring spinal surgery, underscoring the crisis within Ireland’s healthcare system.
McDonald also took aim at the billions of euros in taxpayer money she claimed were wasted on the National Children’s Hospital, one of the world’s most expensive healthcare projects. She referenced the €1.4 million spent on a controversial security hut and the construction of a motorcycle shelter, highlighting inefficiencies and mismanagement within the government.
Popular Promises and Policies
In a bid to capture voter attention, McDonald outlined several populist proposals, including the construction of 300,000 new homes to tackle the housing crisis. She also promised to cut rents and reduce childcare costs to €10 per day if Sinn Féin were to lead the next government.
In a direct appeal to voters, McDonald said, “We see you, we hear you, we recognise you… but most of all, we thank you,” reflecting the party’s commitment to addressing the needs of ordinary citizens.
Approach to Immigration
Touching on the sensitive issue of immigration, McDonald stressed the need for a humane and sensible approach. She advocated for a better-resourced system to ensure fair and expedited services for immigrants. However, she also voiced opposition to placing International Protection Service (IPS) centres in working-class communities, calling for more thoughtful planning in managing such facilities.
Irish Samachar English News
{OR} Kindly click to follow the Irish Samachar News channel on WhatsApp