Anderson attends conference organised by Venezuelan Government

SINN FÉIN FOYLE MLA Martina Anderson is in Venezuela this week to attend a conference organised by President Hugo Chavez and the Venezuelan Government as part of the formation of the Venezuelan United Socialist Party (PSUV). This party brings together many of the individual parties which currently support the Chavez government.
Speaking from Venezuela Ms. Anderson said:
“Last November I spoke at a conference to support democracy and social progress in Venezuela which was attended by cross party delegations from more than a dozen European countries. On that occasion I welcomed the opportunity to be part of an engagement between Europe and Venezuela and to hear the hugely exciting developments which are taking place there. It is in this spirit that I travelled to Venezuela this week to attend a conference organised by its government.
“Since his original election President Chavez has faced down all difficulties and obstacles to introduce free health care and education to millions, and programmes to bring the most marginalised sections of society into politics. His government’s programme of providing cut-rate heating oil for needy families in the US and other countries is also to be applauded.
“On my return to Ireland I will report to the Sinn Féin Ard Chomhairle and raise the trip in the Assembly.”