21 March 2002 Edition
Former POW to stand in Dún Laoghaire
Dún Laoghaire Sinn Féin has selected former political prisoner, Michael O'Brien as its candidate to stand in the upcoming General Election. In his speech following his selection, O'Brien expressed delight at the vote of confidence given to him by those present and said he was "honoured to have been chosen by the party to fight the election campaign".
"While this election battle will prove to be massive task for the local Sinn Féin organisation," he said "it will also provide us with an excellent opportunity to build on our existing base. It will give us the opportunity to bring our republican message and vision to a wider community.
Speaking at the convention, Sinn Féin's representative in the US, Rita O'Hare, urged republicans throughout Dún Laoghaire to become involved in O'Brien's election campaign. She described Michael as "a long-standing friend and comrade whose determination and unwavering commitment to his republican ideals over the years, especially during the years he was imprisoned in England, are an indication of his integrity and unselfishness".
"While this election battle will prove to be massive task for the local Sinn Féin organisation," he said "it will also provide us with an excellent opportunity to build on our existing base. It will give us the opportunity to bring our republican message and vision to a wider community.
Speaking at the convention, Sinn Féin's representative in the US, Rita O'Hare, urged republicans throughout Dún Laoghaire to become involved in O'Brien's election campaign. She described Michael as "a long-standing friend and comrade whose determination and unwavering commitment to his republican ideals over the years, especially during the years he was imprisoned in England, are an indication of his integrity and unselfishness".