Waterford has 'strong representation' at Sinn Fein Ard Fheis

Deputy David Cullinane TD praised what he described as a strong Waterford contribution at the recent Sinn Féin Ard Fhéis, saying party members from the east, city and west of the county made a powerful contribution across a wide range of debates.

Speaking in the wake of the event, Deputy Cullinane said it was a positive and energising event for the party, and he was particularly proud of the strong Waterford contingent who took part across the weekend.

“Waterford was represented from the east, the city and the west of the county," he said.

"That matters; it reflects the depth of the party locally and the commitment of our members to standing up for communities in every part of Waterford," he added.

He himself opened the section on health and said he was proud to do so as it's an area that remains one of the defining challenges facing families and communities. 

"We need real change in healthcare, better access to services, investment in capacity, and a system that delivers for patients, staff and communities," he said.

His party colleague, Deputy Conor McGuinness, opened the section on rural affairs and Deputy Cullinane said his colleague made a strong contribution on the need to deliver fairness, investment and public services for rural communities. 

Rural Waterford, our towns, villages and coastal communities deserve their fair share, and Sinn Féin will continue to make that case," he said.

“I also want to commend Waterford party member Karl Cretzan, who spoke passionately and powerfully on disability rights," he added.

"His contribution was a reminder that disability rights must be central to any agenda for equality, inclusion and social justice."

He said members of the party from across Waterford also spoke on a range of local issues, including health, transport and regional development. 

"These are the issues people raise with us every day on the doors and in our communities," he said.

“Waterford needs investment, ambition and delivery," he added. "We need proper health services, better transport links, balanced regional development and a government that understands the needs of the South East."

He thanked the party members from Waterford who travelled to and participated in the event, commenting that they represented their communities with pride.