25th March 2003

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Large Cavan/ Monaghan Contingent to travel to SF Ard Fheis

As is always the case, there will be a large delegation from Counties Cavan and Monaghan at the Sinn Fein Ard Fheis which takes place in the RDS, Dublin, this weekend. This will be a particularly historic event because for the first time the party s presidential speech will be aired live on national television.

According to North Monaghan Sinn Fein Councillor Brian McKenna this is a huge development for the party. Up until 1994 the voices of republicans were censored and Sinn Fein representatives could not express their views on television or radio.

This will be a very historic and indeed emotional time for those of us in attendance this coming weekend. It is a testimony to those republicans who refused to be criminalised or demonised by the British government or their friends in Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael that support for our message has increased over the years and is now at a point where state television will be broadcasting live our presidents address to the Ard Fheis Cllr. McKenna said.

He continued The Ard Fheis is the place where we debate and decide upon Sinn Fein policy and discuss party strategy for the next twelve months. This year will be the largest we have ever held. I would urge anybody with an interest in the future of our country to watch the debates on RTÉ 1 from 11am - 1pm and 5 - 6pm on Saturday, the latter time frame including Gerry Adams address to the Ard Fheis.

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