Sinn Féin show vision in ‘New Ireland for All’

Sinn Féin show vision in ‘New Ireland for All’

1 May 2024

SOUTH Down MP Chris Hazzard said there must be a real step change in confronting and tackling sectarianism to build a better future for everyone,

At the launch of Sinn Féin’s new policy document ‘A New Ireland for All – Ending Sectarian Segregation’, the South Down MP said his party recognises the need to build a genuinely shared future.

He said housing and education systems should be an opportunity to create shared communities, emphasising the need to “realise our potential and ensure prosperity now and for the generations to come”.

Mr Hazzard said “diversity and difference” enrich society as evidenced from the many new communities who have brought with them culture and experiences that we all benefit from and enjoy.

“The recent restoration of our political institutions provides new energy, new opportunities and real hope,” he continued. “The institutions are based on partnership, inclusion, respect, and equality. Power-sharing allows us to plan, work and deliver together.

“These are not just words, as public representatives we have a responsibility to work for all our people whatever their background or political allegiances.”

Mr Hazzard said political leaders must focus on the opportunities that a restoration of the Executive and Assembly provides.

He continued: “We need to see now, a real step change in confronting and tackling sectarian attitudes and structures.

“People need to meet each other halfway. We need to accept that there are different perspectives and try to understand each other.”

Mr Hazzard said there is a need to acknowledge each other’s concerns and to “remove the physical barriers in our communities, heads and hearts” and he has great hope and optimism for the future.

The MP added: “Together we can build a reconciled, accommodating, inclusive society that we all call home.”