Key economic policy conference

This weekend sees an important Sinn Féin conference forming part of the development of a comprehensive Sinn Féin economic policy.

A document before the conference introduces Sinn Féin's vision of the economics of a United Ireland of Equals. Central to this vision is a clear understanding of the kind of economy Sinn Féin wants- that is, a strong economy based on equality and social justice. The party is committed to rights-based governance and a rights-based economic policy and wants to work with others to bring about the realisation of this vision.

The document is just the first module in the Sinn Féin economic policy currently under development by the party's Economic Policy Review Group. It will be followed by two separate documents concerning Taxationp and Fiscal Policy and Trade Policy.

The guiding principles and objectives of the policy being discussedthis weekend are consistent with, and informed by, the 1916 Proclamation, the Democratic Programme of the First Dáil, Sinn Féin's 'Rights for All' document, and the rights enumerated in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, the revised EU Social Charter and the EU Charter of Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. It is important to note that Ireland is bound by the International Covenant and the Social Charter under international law.

Among these key principles are:

• That the Irish economy must serve society and not the reverse and that economic growth must take place in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner.

• That everyone has the right to an adequate standard of living, the right to a dignified, productive and well-paid job, the right to work in safe conditions, with access to life-long learning opportunities and vocational training and re-training, and that all workers have the right to join trade unions, negotiate contracts of employment, the right to picket and to withhold their labour.