10 March, 2005

Other News

Search: Print this article Other News International solidarity Opening address buoys Ard Fheis delegates Advancing towards Irish unity We need cutting edge legislation to fight discrimination Catch yourself on, Hugh Orde Status quo, stalemate not an option Reviewing the rules - updated Constitution passed Call for Irish names for new estates Support for Colombia Three family Collusion protest at British Embassy Government slammed for undelivered health promises Party politics cause a stir Housing Minister should be sacked for incompetence Smoke and mirrors minister under fire in justice debate Ard Fheis rejects EU Constitution - By Eoin O'Broin Warm welcome for Wurtz Ard Fheis rejects private public partnerships Agriculture needs all-Ireland approach Education is a right Slogadh Shinn Féin 2005 Colm Ó Ceannabháin Sign up to receive news from An Phoblacht. Enter your e-mail address: Privacy policy

Greetings from US labour leader

Photo: Terry O'Sullivan

Terry O'Sullivan is President of the Laborers' International Union in the United States, representing over 800,000 members. The Irish American trade unionist was a guest speaker at this year's Ard Fheis.

O'Sullivan expressed his support and commitment to the Irish people and to "our cause and our party". He articulated words of praise and admiration for Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams: "I have been inspired by his courage, his conviction and his commitment to justice and equality and a united Ireland," he said. "He is not only one of the greatest leaders, but one of the most decent human beings I have ever met. He is a credit to this party and a credit to this country."

O'Sullivan referred to the decision by Washington not to invite any Irish politician to the St Patrick's celebration in the White House this year. "I cannot talk for the president of the US, but Gerry Adams is welcome any day to my house," he said, to thunderous applause.

O'Sullivan also referred to the 100th anniversary of Sinn Féin, a party "born out of strive and struggle, by courageous men and women who gathered to fight against abuse, torture, discrimination and the exploitation of the Irish people.

"They founded Sinn Féin on the principles of equality, justice and a united Ireland, individuals who were willing to give their lives in the cause of freedom. The heroes of our past we remember. It is their spirit, their courage, their conviction and their determination that we honour here today. It is in their memory that we re-dedicate ourselves today to the cause of peace."

O'Sullivan reiterated the support for Sinn Féin's work from the Labour Movement and the Friends of Sinn Féin in the United States.

Articles may not be reproduced without the consent of An Phoblacht. For further information, please contact