MEP visits Donegal

SF rep Donal Cullen, Údarás candidate Gráinne Mhic Géidigh and Bairbre de Brún at the Naíonra in Downings, Donegal

Sinn Féin MEP Bairbre de Brún met with a number of community groups throughout County Donegal, including resource centres and youth projects, on Friday last. De Brún also met with staff members from the Irish language daily newspaper Lá at their offices in Gweedore.

De Brún discussed funding cuts with staff from the newspaper, which remains under threat due to recent funding decisions.

Sinn Féin Councillor Pearse Doherty and Gráinne Mhic Géidigh, Sinn Féin candidate in the upcoming Udarás na Gaeltachta election, accompanied de Brún on her visit.

Speaking from Donegal, de Brún said: "Donegal experiences high levels of deprivation and unemployment — similar to my own area of west Belfast.

"It is absolutely imperative that we begin to address the neglect and isolation felt by many people within the county. The unemployment rate in Donegal continues to sit at around 16%, which is around four times the national average.

"I also met with staff from the Irish language newspaper LÁ, to discuss recent funding cuts which threaten the very existence of the newspaper, an important vehicle for cultural expression. At a time when negotiations are underway to give due recognition the status of the Irish language in the European Union, it is unacceptable that the very existence of this newspaper is threatened by a political decision to reduce funding.

"Sinn Féin is committed to both preserving and developing the status of the Irish language throughout Ireland. This is particularly important in a county such as Donegal, which proudly boasts a thriving Gaeltacht area."