New SF cumann in Newcastle

Seán Crowe (centre) Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Southwest, was the guest speaker at the launch of the Joe McCrickard Cumann in Newcastle

South Down Sinn Féin formally launched a new cumann at a recent function in the Donard Hotel, Newcastle. The formation of the Joe McCrickard Cumann reflects the growth and expansion of Sinn Féin at both local and national level. It re-establishes a republican link that stretches back to 1917 when a cumainn was first established in Newcastle and played a part in the All-Ireland elections of 1918 in what now is the South Down constituency.

Seán Crowe, TD for Dublin Southwest was the guest speaker at the event that was attended by a large number of party activists and supporters and chaired by local Councillor Willie Clarke.

Seán Crowe said the cumann would "become a focal point and inspiration for the nationalist people of this town. There is a growing confidence amongst the citizens of this county to express their views and aspirations and to make Sinn Féin the dominant party, not only in Newcastle and Down, but throughout the whole of Ireland."

Newcastle Sinn Féin Councillor Willie Clarke said that the rise in support for Sinn Féin in South Down has been unprecedented. "In the last Westminster election, our party more than doubled its vote; in 2001 we returned seven councillors and we are now preparing to stand three Assembly candidates in the next Assembly Elections. Sinn Féin is the fastest growing political party in Ireland and nowhere reflects this more than the town of Newcastle."