7 May 1998 Edition
Forward in Unity
Next Sunday Sinn Féin delegates from across Ireland will meet at the party's resumed Ard Fheis to discuss important resolutions regarding future political strategy and tactics. That debate will centre on how best Sinn Féin can, in the immediate term, advance its political objectives of an end to British rule in Ireland and national self-determination for the Irish people.
Sinn Féin has been the main driving force behind political change in Ireland over recent years. Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams was one of the original architects of the peace process which has transformed the political landscape North and South. Despite all of the obstacles thrown up in its path the party has repeatedly risen to the challenge.
Sinn Féin has continually defied attempts by others to divert it from its path of pursuing peace with justice in Ireland. It has refused to be straight-jacketed or hand-cuffed by the agendas set by its political opponents. Sinn Féin has shown over and again in recent years both its tactical flexibility and its absolute commitment to republican objectives. In doing so the party has demonstrated the truly revolutionary nature of its leaders and membership.
The political negotiations at Stormont and the Good Friday document which resulted from them are significant developments. They both open up opportunities for republicans and present them with political challenges.
Whatever decisions are made on Sunday, Sinn Féin is clearly a party on the move. It remains at the very centre of political life in Ireland. Its vote continues to rise both North and South. Its membership is increasing. Republicans are more determined than ever that we will see our political objectives of a free and united Ireland achieved. Sinn Féin is to the fore in moving the situation forward towards that goal.
Next weekend marks a watershed in both modern Irish history and the development of the republican struggle. Despite differing views within Sinn Féin regarding tactics all members will face the new political challenges in unity. Together republicans will push forward the struggle for freedom.
Sinn Féin has been the main driving force behind political change in Ireland over recent years. Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams was one of the original architects of the peace process which has transformed the political landscape North and South. Despite all of the obstacles thrown up in its path the party has repeatedly risen to the challenge.
Sinn Féin has continually defied attempts by others to divert it from its path of pursuing peace with justice in Ireland. It has refused to be straight-jacketed or hand-cuffed by the agendas set by its political opponents. Sinn Féin has shown over and again in recent years both its tactical flexibility and its absolute commitment to republican objectives. In doing so the party has demonstrated the truly revolutionary nature of its leaders and membership.
The political negotiations at Stormont and the Good Friday document which resulted from them are significant developments. They both open up opportunities for republicans and present them with political challenges.
Whatever decisions are made on Sunday, Sinn Féin is clearly a party on the move. It remains at the very centre of political life in Ireland. Its vote continues to rise both North and South. Its membership is increasing. Republicans are more determined than ever that we will see our political objectives of a free and united Ireland achieved. Sinn Féin is to the fore in moving the situation forward towards that goal.
Next weekend marks a watershed in both modern Irish history and the development of the republican struggle. Despite differing views within Sinn Féin regarding tactics all members will face the new political challenges in unity. Together republicans will push forward the struggle for freedom.