Mary Lou McDonald has urged voters to “hit” Government parties “harder” by supporting Sinn Fein in upcoming by-elections, in an address focused on cost-of-living measures. Speaking at the party’s Ard Fheis in Belfast, the Sinn Fein president said the Government needs to introduce an emergency budget after trying to “buy off” fuel protesters.
Irish unity referendum by 2030 still possible
She also stated that an Irish unity referendum by 2030 remains achievable and expressed hope that unionist political leaders would recognise the “chance of real wins”. Earlier on Saturday, Ms McDonald sought to downplay reports of discontent with her leadership, insisting she will lead Sinn Fein into the next general election and has the confidence of party members.
Fuel protests and emergency budget demands
In her keynote address, Ms McDonald referenced fuel protests that brought parts of Ireland to a standstill, noting that people gathered “with tractors, trucks and lorries – tools of their livelihoods”. She criticised Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, saying they believed they could “buy off workers with half-measures” but were wrong. She reiterated calls for an emergency mini-budget with a substantial cut to excise on fuel, including the complete removal of carbon tax on home heating oil and green diesel, as well as electricity credits, additional social welfare support, and immediate tax relief.
She specifically targeted the Universal Social Charge (USC), calling it “Fianna Fail’s tax” and a constant drag on wages, and demanded a permanent cut starting with putting 500 euro back in workers’ pockets. “This must happen now because people cannot wait,” she added.
Appeal to unionists and criticism of government
Turning to Irish unity, Ms McDonald said preparation for a referendum must begin immediately. She made a direct appeal to unionist politicians in Northern Ireland, stating: “We respect and value Protestant, unionist, loyalist people – this is your home and we want to build Ireland’s future with you.” She urged unionist leadership to work for progress and condemned “divisive, rejectionist, sectarian politics”. She also mentioned that Casement Park will be built and the A5 road will save lives.
Her harshest critique was reserved for the Government parties, which she described as the “biggest barrier to planning for unity”. She called on them to lead, prepare for referendums, and engage with people, saying: “That is the patriotic thing to do.” She added: “Make no mistake, we are out to fully end British government rule in Ireland.”
Housing policy and Middle East stance
Ms McDonald attacked the Government’s housing policy, labelling them “the parties of boarded-up homes, rip-off rents, sky-high house prices, of chronic homelessness”. She received strong applause when referring to the war in the Middle East, saying Israel needs to be shown “the red card” and opposing any welcome for the Israeli football team. She also challenged Micheal Martin and Simon Harris to put plans to scrap the triple lock to the people, asserting: “Hands off Irish neutrality.”
By-elections as opportunity
In her concluding remarks, she told members that although Fianna Fail and Fine Gael survived Sinn Fein’s motion of no confidence, they do not have the confidence of the Irish people. “The upcoming by-elections are your chance to hit them harder, to strengthen Sinn Fein’s hand,” she said. The speech ended with party members singing Amhran na bhFiann and Do You Hear The People Sing.
Earlier, Ms McDonald dismissed reports of leadership challenges, saying she is “very proud to lead this party” and enjoys the confidence of colleagues. She confirmed she will lead Sinn Fein into the next general election, and the crowd cheered when it was announced she was re-elected as president.
