Pedestrians Need to Be Visible to Motorists

Sinn Féin Councillor Marian Mathers has urged people walking at night to ensure that they are visible to motorists.

Councillor Mathers said;

“I have been told of a few incidents where pedestrians were nearly knocked down due to the dark clothing they were wearing while walking in badly lit areas.

“With the dark nights and poor weather it can be nearly impossible to see people in dark clothing especially on country lanes

“I would appeal to people to wear light coloured clothing or ensure they carry a torch or wear fluorescent strips on their clothes if they are walking in badly lit areas. It is also important that people walk into ongoing traffic so that they can spot any potential danger and move out of the way in time.

Taking these simple precautions of being visible to motorists may save a life and avoid a tragedy being visited upon a family this Christmas.

Look out for elderly and vulnerable at Christmas – Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin MLA Mickey Brady has appealed to the public at large to pay special attention to elderly neighbours and the vulnerable at Christmas time.

Mickey stated:

“Christmas is a great family time but it can also be a lonely one for elderly people who are perhaps on their own or find it hard to get about.

In recent times we have heard more and more about attempted break- ins and Burglary’s especially at homes belonging to elderly folk.

Then there are people who are very vulnerable for a whole raft of reasons and for them, Christmas is far from enjoyable. The economic downturn has obviously affected many people and left them in a difficult position at this time of the year.

I would therefore appeal to people to do the small neighbourly things that make a difference. We all know that a little time and a small task can make a big difference to people who fear the loneliness of Christmas.

There will be people who do these things all year round but I would ask that a special effort is made as we move to the festive season.

Fire and Rescue Display

The Hughes Grant Watters Sinn Féin cumann in co operation with the Meadow Armagh Road Community Association (MARCA) and the Fire and Rescue Service, are in the process of organising a display which shows how the emergency services deal with a car crash scenario. The display will show how the emergency services react to a serious RTA (road traffic accident) and they will show how they use cutting equipment to free trapped passengers. We are waiting for a number of dates from the Fire Service but it is hoped that this will happen over the Christmas holiday period.

Directly after the display a drink and drug awareness talk will take place in the community centre. Young people will hear from experts on the dangers of drink and drug abuse. It is hoped that a large number of the local youth avail of these free activities which take a lot of time and work to organise. All we are waiting for is a firm date from the Fire Service for the display to take place and we will let everyone know in due time.

Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney

As we gather today to rededicate this monument in memory of Henry and Declan, almost 300 miles away at this time in Kilmichael hundreds of republicans are commemorating one of the greatest battles of the Tan War.

It is a fitting coincidence that we gather to immortalise the memory of these Volunteers in this way on the same day the Kilmichael ambush occurred 89 years ago.

Henry and Declan follow the Volunteers who fought, died and survived at Kilmichael in an unbroken chain of republican struggle. Kilmichael changed the direction of the Tan War. But the sacrifice of Henry and Declan inspired a new generation of republican activists from this and neighbouring counties, and renewed the determination of others already involved in the cause of Irish freedom.

What happened in Kilmichael remains inspiring to this day. And in years to come Henry and Declan will be remembered as among the bravest of the brave of our generations.

There is no glory in war. It creates a legacy of loss, grief and pain.

Henry and Declan were young men. They were sons, brothers, cousins, friends, neighbours of extended networks. Popular local lads at the beginning of adulthood, with options and choices in life.

Armed struggle is only an option of last resort.

In Ireland of the 1980’s just as in 1919, no viable political alternatives were available to nationalist and republican people. Armed struggle was the only means available to resist injustice and inequality and to effect political change.

As a direct result of the sacrifice of Henry and Declan and many others; and of the commitment of a risen people, today republicanism has never been bigger, stronger and more powerful since the Tan War.

The IRA leadership said in 2005 new modes and strategies of political struggle are now available to nationalists and republicans.

Today the best place to organise and campaign for Irish freedom is within Sinn Féin.

A war was fought by these generations of republicans. And the IRA fought that war to a conclusion. There is no other IRA today. Nor is there an armed struggle to be finished. Those who choose to masquerade otherwise should disarm and disband.

In recent days militarist factions have once more attempted futile armed actions. Their activities play directly into the hands of those in the British military system who would wish to remilitarise the North.

Some of those involved in orchestrating these attacks have set remilitarisation as a goal. That is anathema to the republican and nationalist people. It is surely now time to pose the question, what agenda are they serving, and who really is in control of these groups?

These small factions need to understand that there is no support for any activities which will lead to remilitarising the north once more.

Nor is there any acceptable role for British military forces in today’s six counties. Sinn Féin will not accept the reintroduction of any British military presence or activity; be it undercover, or otherwise.

Remilitarisation will undermine the peace process. Sinn Féin will oppose any effort to do that. And, we will oppose any attempts by militarist factions, and those in the British military to push us back into conflict.

Our focus is on continuing to build the momentum for change across the 32 counties and the achievement of national and democratic objectives.

At the same time we also face significant political challenges in the 6 counties.

The current political impasse is seriously deteriorating because of the role of NIO figures, who remain wedded to an anti-republican and pro-unionist agenda. These senior officials are gambling with negotiation on the transfer of policing and justice, in a concerted effort to prop up the DUP and undermine Sinn Féin.

Their strategic objective is to hollow out the Good Friday Agreement. There is nothing new in that. This is a rearguard move by the old system to protect the status quo.

And, it is also no accident that in recent weeks those remaining of what we know as the political detectives have once more re-emerged in relation to a series of high profile repressive raids against Sinn Féin members. These raids are motivated by entrenched counter insurgency attitudes within the NIO. They are designed to threaten political stability and wrong-foot Sinn Féin strategy.

It is clear that some within the NIO are determined to bring their old war mentality once more into the ascendancy. But they are picking a fight they cannot win.

What the NIO spooks and PSNI’s political detectives have forgotten is that this strategy didn’t win the war; and no amount of recycled counter insurgency tactics will stop the momentum for political change in the six counties now.

In recent weeks all the evidence indicates the DUP have no intention to support the transfer of policing and justice powers. Absolutely nothing suggests this position will change. Their continued intransigence is a serious political mistake. It is a train wreck political strategy and political consequences will be inevitable.

All of this demonstrates that the impasse over policing and justice is about something deeper than a transfer of powers. It’s about whether political unionism is prepared to co-exist with republicans in equality and partnership; and, prepared to accept the rights of all citizens – regardless of political allegiance – to equal treatment and parity of esteem. But, there will be no retreat from the fundamental principles of the Good Friday Agreement.

Last week Peter Robinson asserted that the DUP will not walk away from the political institutions.

The question is not whether the DUP will walk away; the really urgent and immediate question is whether the DUP can stay within the institutions and commit to equality and partnership.

The DUP needs to make its mind up now.

There is no test of community confidence required to establish political equality. You either accept equality and democracy, or you don’t.

So the DUP needs to start getting real. They cannot have it both ways.

Equality and partnership threaten no one. They are the foundation stones for any peaceful society.

The guarantees and rights of the GFA and St Andrews Agreement belong to everyone … nationalists and unionists.

Those rejectionist unionists opposed to the equality agenda are denying absolute rights for ordinary unionists and ordinary nationalists.

That is not acceptable. We will not allow them to succeed.

The fact is that political institutions which fail to protect and deliver equality for all citizens are of no political value to anyone.

And here’s a reality check. Equality and partnership isn’t negotiable. A future without either is not an option. These generations of nationalists aren’t prepared to sit at the back of the bus again.

So, unionist leaders shouldn’t cod themselves, no-one will be reaching for the handbrake to slow down change or equality in the north.

Unionist supremacy in the past and obstinacy today in the face of change has made equality the political touchstone in the six counties, and it can’t be air brushed away. The future of the northern political institutions now hinges on whether they will be allowed to function on the basis of equality and partnership.

Equality must exist at the heart of every institution, workplace and community. And if big house political unionism has once more abandoned the rights of protestant citizens then Sinn Féin will seek to offer leadership, outreach and partnership to those communities also.

Henry Hogan and Declan Martin died in pursuit of the timeless vision enunciated by Tone and fought for at Kilmichael - a free Ireland; one which would guarantee equality among Protestant, Catholic and dissenter.

But their work remains unfinished.

Henry and Declan gave their all to this struggle. Today we rededicate this monument as a lasting memorial to their sacrifice. But the greatest tribute each of us can pay to these volunteers 25 years on, is to rededicate ourselves to their republican objectives, and leave here, re-energised and renewed in our shared commitment to finish the road to freedom.

Damaged Traffic Island

The local Hughes Grant Watters Sinn Féin cumann in Derrybeg have urged local Councillor for the area Marian Mathers to ensure that the D.O.E respond quickly to their requests to ensure that the traffic island on the Camlough Road close to the entrance of Derrybeg. The danger for motorists and pedestrians alike only increases as we go deeper into the winter and foul weather. As it is at present, traffic at night cannot see or make out the island due to the absence of lights and cones, which were damaged recently. We would also ask young people not to interfere with the traffic cones as they form part of the temporary road layout and help to reduce the speed of oncoming traffic in that built up area.

No Vote No Voice

Mickey Brady MLA is urging constituents across Newry Armagh to ensure their right to vote. "If you have no vote you have no voice and it's as simple as that. I'm pressing people to ensure they are on the electoral register, that they also have photographic identification and that they use that hard fought for right and vote."
Mickey said, "Every party will be setting out their vision of the way forward as we progress towards the next elections. Sinn Fein will proudly stand on our record when we again knock your doors as we do on a regular basis conducting community canvassing. If you have any access problems at all, be it mobility, access to written materials or you are attending University or are abroad just ask for help. There are a range of alternatives to ensure your right to vote and we will make every effort to explain the system and assist you."

Political Policing

The recent raids that took place in south Armagh were a clear sign that political policing is still taking place at the behest of the securocrats in London. There is a lot of anger amongst Republicans, especially people who have been involved in the freedom struggle for many years. What all of this tells us is that Unionism is feeling threatened by the growth and strategy of Sinn Féin. The timing of this whole episode as well the murger charge against a south Armagh man for the killing of an under cover SAS man proves this theory. The establishment will try anything to placate the DUP at any cost. All of this is designed to cause tension and friction within Republicanism which simply won't be allowed to happen.

DPP

Sinn Féin's political opponents have been calling for the resignation of Annette Hughes from the local District Policing Partnership because of Brit propaganda about her and her family. For the first time Republicans and Nationalists can actively hold to account the PSNI for their actions or lack of actions for that matter. The hierachy of the establishment don't like this and will try anything to stifle this. Annette is correct not to resign her position, she carries out a very important role and is very vocal and passionate about issues that she raises with the DPP. I have no doubt that she will continue to represent the views of local people at that level. The Hughes' family has received enormous support from people near and far in this blatent attempt to criminalise them, and, with this support a clear message will be sent to those who continue to try and treat Republicans as second class citizens that we simply will not allow this to happen!

Unwanted Thuggery

In the early hours of Monday morning, a local man was approached by two hooded men as he stopped outside his Derrybeg home and was questioned. Fearing for his safety, the man repeatedly sounded his car horn which succeeded in scaring his would be attackers off. A few days later the man received a phone call from the men demanding that he remove cash from his place of work and leave it at pre determined spot in the centre of the city. The caller threatened the local man and claimed that he was representing the RIRA and further threatened the man and his family. This local man nows lives in fear of his life and that of his family's life as well - he has had to take time off work due to stress and he is also now fearful for his job. This activity is not wanted in our community and should cease immediatley. The threat that remains on this man and his family should also be lifted immediately by those who have nothing to offer our community but thuggery. The people do not want them or support them in any way.

Cowardly Attack on 75 Year Old Local Man

The Hughes Grant Watters Sinn Féin cumann would like to strongly condemn the cowardly attack that took place in the early hours of friday morning on a 75 year old pensioner. The attack happened in the Killeavy Road area and has caused major concern in the area. The man who was attacked is well known and respected in the Meadow where his family have lived for a long time. For anyone to pick on a 75 year old man who lives alone speaks volumes about the thugs concerned, but, to use a hammer to inflict near death injuries shows the disrespect that these thugs have for local people. They need to be taken out of society before they do cause someones death. A number of firearms were taken in the raid but thankfully these guns are of little use to the cowards as the firing mechanism had been removed by the owner before they were stored. We would urge people to look out for their neighbours and report any suspicious activity. These thugs have no place in our communities and have nothing to offer but fear and intimidation.

Tell the Truth

It has been brought to the attention of the cumann that some glaring inaccuracies have been published recently in relation to a very successful parade that took place at the end of August to re dedicate the memorial in Derrybeg. In the publication and I quote;

" At a recent PSF commemoration in the Derrybeg area of Newry no more than 100 people attended, there were roughly 10 residents in the PSF parade in an area with 1500 residents."

To suggest that only 10 residents took part in the parade which in fact had over 500 people take part shows the immaturity of the author of the article. The author also failed to mention that the families of the five IRA volunteers, who were commemorated on the night, were present and actively participated in this event and also the very successful function that took place later that same evening. Instead of attacking our strategy and our Movement the author should engage with republicans on issues that they feel are important. The electorate will decide at the next election who to support and we look forward to taking on allcomers; micro groups and others.

Removal of Overgrown Trees

Cllr Marian Mathers has expressed her thanks to Newry and Mourne Council for their efforts in addressing what had become an issue for residents from Orior Road and Helen's Terrace. The residents had contacted the Hughes Grant Watters cumann to see if anything could be done in relation to a number of overgrown trees in front of their homes. As a result a site meeting was called and the Sinn Féin councillor was able to ensure that the necessary work was carried out. Several residents have been in contact to pass on their gratitude for this long overdue work. The cumann will work with the residents to ensure that the area is maintained on a regular basis in the future.

35th Anniversary of Óglach Michael Hughes

The Hughes Grant Watters Sinn Féin cumann will commemorate the 35th anniversary of republican volunteer, Michael ‘Sticky’ Hughes on Sunday 18th October. The Hughes/Grant/Watters cumann will lay a wreath at the monument erected in his memory on Sunday.

Local Sinn Féin councillor Marian Mathers outlined the life of the young volunteer who was tragically killed when he was just 16 years old;

“Michael was born in Banbridge, County Down on 28th June 1958. He was the oldest of seven children born to Patrick and Teresa. He had one brother, John, and five sisters, Kate, Elizabeth, Angela, Lorraine and Patricia. Michael began his school life at St Peter’s primary school Cloughreagh. He did well at school and moved on to the Abbey CBS Newry and then to St Joseph’s on the Armagh Road, Newry. His teenage years were thrown into turmoil when he had to come to terms with the death of his father Patsy (also an IRA volunteer), who was tragically killed in an accidental explosion on the Dublin Road Newry. His father’s death had a huge impact on the young Michael.“From an early age Michael was active on the streets against the Crown forces and it was at this time that he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and join the ranks of Óglaigh na hÉireann. He became heavily involved in armed actions in the Derrybeg area and his leadership qualities soon impressed his comrades around him. He was a close friend and comrade of Volunteer Eddie “Starchy” Grant who also died in action as a result of an accidental explosion on Christmas Eve 1973.“As well as being an active volunteer with the IRA, Michael or “Sticky” as he was known to friends, also enjoyed his social life. He was a frequent visitor to the local community centre. His distinctive ginger hair made him easily recognizable to all. He enjoyed football and was also interested in reading books about Irish history. Being the oldest child Michael quickly realized that he would have to seek employment to assist his mother in the upbringing of the family. He secured a full time job in the near-by Nylon factory on the Armagh Road, but sadly had only completed two full weeks work when he was killed.“On Friday 18th October 1974, Volunteer Michael Hughes, while on active service for the IRA, was shot dead by members of the British Army on a commandeered bus. He was only 16 years of age. On the day of his funeral, his comrades marched along Main Avenue, Derrybeg Park in military formation in a fitting tribute to a soldier of the Irish Republican Army.“Volunteer Michael Hughes will forever be remembered with pride by his loving family, friends and comrades in the Republican Movement. It is memory of Michael and all those like him that we continue forward in pursuit of Irish freedom.”

Derrybeg Drive Garages

The cumann can announce that the issue around the garages in Derrybeg Drive has been resolved. The Housing Executive has contacted us to make us aware that the proposal for the erection of new gates at the entrance to the garages has been passed. The new gates are under constuction and it is hoped that the gates will be in situ very soon. The Housing Executive will be in contact with the garage owners in the near future to arrange the distribution of keys. Another good piece of news is that the residents from Iveagh Crescent whose homes back onto the garages will also receive keys to allow for access.

Hughes Grant Watters Cumann Active in the Community

We thought that the time was now right to outline just some of the work carried out by the Vol Hughes Grant Watters cumann in the Derrybeg area in recent months. There is no doubt that some will try and rubbish the good work done but residents know themselves who is delivering and helping on their behalf. From the outset let us congratulate the Derrybeg Community Association who have been involved in some good work also. Our job as cumann activists is to try and help and represent people from right across this area regardless of their politics or beliefs, but especially those people who continue to vote for Sinn Féin in large numbers. We will outline some of the work that the cumann and the Party were involved with in recent months.
The Old "All Weather Pitch"

This area was beginning to become a gathering point for young drivers and a number of residents contacted the cumann and the local councillor to see if anything could be done to secure this area. Cllr Mathers quickly organised a site meeting and within a short period the council had erected a number of barriers and issued local residents with keys at both the First and Second Avenue access points. After a short time it was discovered that the cars were still gaining entrance to the area via an embankment at Second Avenue. This was pointed out to the council and they quickly blocked this entrance by placing large boulders making it impossible to drive into this area.
Derrybeg Football Pitch

The cumann along with Cllr Mathers discovered that some funding was available from DSD for essential maintainance work to be carried out to Derrybeg Football pitch. Again a site meeting was called and as a result the entire outside of the pitch now has a secure ballstop. Although there is still some improvements that could happen, this was the first time in years that any sort of help was secured for the local football club. The cumann and our elected reps will continue to work on behalf of the football club.
Monuments for Local IRA Volunteers

When the cumann was established several years ago one of the first tasks was to begin fundraising to erect a permanent memorial to IRA Volunteer Michael Hughes at the spot where he was murdered by the Brits at the age of 16 while on active service. Despite the fact that this monument was attacked and badly vandalised, the cumann quickly replaced the monument with a brand new stone which now stands pride of place at the entrance to the estate. Around the same time local republicans decided that a project would be undertaken to rebuild the monument at Second Avenue with a larger and more visible monument. After a lot of hard work this was unveiled in late August by local republicans which involved a successful parade from Newry. The main speaker at this event was south Armagh republican Sean Hughes.
Old Play Park in Third Avenue

What had become a long running problem for residents of Third Avenue was that this area was being used by young people for drinking especially at the weekends resulting in anti social activity. Local people approached the cumann to see if something could be done in regards to this. With the help of councillors Marian Mathers and Brendan Curran a site meeting was called which was also attended by members of the community association, council officials and senior Housing Executive people agreed to have the area cleaned up as a matter of urgency. It is our hope that the agencies who own this piece of land can secure the area in some fashion so that people of Third Avenue don't have to live with the fear of late night drinkers on their doorsteps.
General Clean Up

The cumann have on numerous occasions successfully lobbied to have different parts of the area cleaned up and maintained when neccessary. We continue to make the council or the housing executive aware of issues wherever and whenever they occur.
Welfare Rights Issues

The cumann has been constantly involved with this important issue, one that effects everyone. As a result of the high volume of requests for this work the cumann will be organising another elected reps clinic in the coming weeks. (At the last Derrybeg Community Association AGM, Marian Mathers volunteered her services as a committee member but made it clear that due to work committments and council committments she would be unable to attend every meeting but offered her services in whatever other way she could help the committee. But after a few weeks Marian was informed by letter by the Community Association that her services were no longer required in the Community House. As a result of this decision the cumann has to look for alternative premises to hold the elected reps clinic). Here residents have a chance to meet with the elected reps and discuss problems. So it is clear to see that the local Hughes Grant Watters cumann is as active as ever and we look forward to being of assistance in the coming months for residents in this area.

Pig Hall Lonan Clean Up

After a number of calls and site meetings the council has begun to clean up the Pig Hall Lonan area of Newry. This busy small road, which links the Meadow to the Camlough Road, has seen a steady increase in traffic in recent months. Residents contacted the HGW cumann in relation to a number of issues. One by one the issues are being addressed and the council have to be commended for their speedy response. One of the major problems is that people have started dumping rubbish along this road which has resulted in a huge infestation of rats. Residents have been advised to note the registration number of vehicles that are involved in this illegal dumping and pass it onto the cumann. We will have no hesitation in passing this information onto the Environmental Health Department in the council. The cumann is still awaiting a call from the DOE to arrange a meeting in relation to the installation of traffic calming measures along this road. The residents will be kept fully informed once this meeting has been arranged. Sinn Féin councillor for the area Marian Mathers has expressed her gratitude to the council for acting so quickly on the residents concerns.

Monument Vandalised

It is sad that we have to report a spate of vandalism at the recently opened monument in Derrybeg. It was brought to our attention over the weekend that some of the photos of the fallen volunteers had been smashed. We believe that the damage was caused by youths from within the estate which makes it even more sad. The cumann would appeal to parents from the estate to ensure that their children do not use the monument as a playground. Derrybeg has some fantastic facilities and a large play area that is the envy of other areas. The monuments' in the estate were erected as a result of the generosity of local residents and others who wish to remember the sacrifise that these brave men made towards the fight for Irish unity. It is sad that young people do not understand the hurt and pain that this type of activity causes to the families of our patriot dead. Have no doubt that the monument will be restored to its former glory in the very near future.

Issues at Pig Hall Lonan

Residents from the Helen's Terrace area of the Meadow have welcomed efforts from the HGW cumann in securing a site meeting with officials from N&MDC including Environmental Health and the Parks departments. The officials were shown around the area and they were told about ongoing problems at first hand by the residents. The resdients have major concerns about the lack of attention being paid to the Pig Hall Lonan area in general which they have to use on a daily basis to access their homes. The bank at the bottom of Sandy's Field is infested with rats due to illegal dumping. The residents have demanded that the trees are cut back and that the entire area be properly maintained on a regular basis. (The HGW cumann have a number of photographs of the area in question for future reference). The officials gave a guarantee that the clean up of the area would commence almost immediately.

Another serious issue for the residents is the fact that Pig Hall Lonan is constantly being used as a shortcut by motorists once the busy Camlough Road starts to back up with traffic. These residents' front gardens lead directly to this road and there is nothing at all in place to slow motorists down. The residents are demanding that some sort of traffic calming measures are put in place before a child is seriously injured or killed on this road. They rightfully point out the fact that there are speed ramps on the main Meadow Road so why not here also. The cumann had asked an official from DOE Roads to attend the meeting but due to other committments they couldn't attend. However, the cumann has been in touch with DOE Roads again and they have been told that another meeting to deal specifically with this issue will be organised in the very near future. The local cumann will keep the residents informed of this.

Bonfire Material

Concerned residents from the Iveagh Crescent area of the Meadow contacted cumann members yesterday to complain about tyres and pallets that were being stored close to their homes. Sinn Féin councillor Marian Mathers contacted the Environmental Health and the Housing Executive to arrange a site meeting. The council officials spoke with local people and as a result have arranged for the material to removed safely and disposed off from the area immediately. An official from the Housing Executive also attended the meeting and spoke at length to residents. She heard at first hand how the garages were being used, especially at weekends, by drug dealers as a drop off point. She also saw for herself that the garage area was being used to store the bonfire material. She listened to the concerns of the residents and heard at first hand what they would like done to secure the area. It has been agreed that the Housing Executive will send an engineer into the garages to assess the access point with the hope that a new set of gates can be installed in the very near future. There were a number of garage owners in attendance at the meeting along with residents whose homes back onto the garages and these people will have sole access to the garages when the site is secured. Cllr Mathers acknowledged the short notice of the meeting and she thanked all who had turned up. The residents also sent messages of thanks to the local cumann for listening to their concerns and organising the site meeting at such short notice.

Overgrown Trees in Orior Road

Council Officials have told Orior Road residents that work will commence on the cutting back of trees and bushes at the bottom of Sandy's Field near the end of October. The residents were told that the reason for the delay in this work was the fact that the grass cutting season hasn't finished yet. A committment was given by the Official to lower the height of the trees to the same level of the fence. The residents have agreed to keep in touch with cumann members to ensure that this work takes place as promised. The cumann would like to thank the council for the speedy response to the meeting with residents.

What the People Really Need

On Saturday 26th September the Hughes Grant Watters cumann organised another successful elected reps clinic. This gave local people the chance to meet with the MLA and the councillors. A range of issues were dealt with on the day and locals welcomed the opportunity to sit and discuss problems with people that they elected to represent them. The cumann would like to thank the Meadow Armagh Road Community Association for accomodating the clinic and already moves are under way to organise a follow up to this. If you have problems with welfare rights issues or any other issue you would like to discuss please contact us on 02830261693.

Vermin

Residents have highlighted the ongoing problems in this lonan to local activists. The bank along Pig Hall Lonan is infested with rats and has been for quite a while now. This poses major concerns to the people who live along this road, many of whom have young children who play in this vicinity. The cumann has made councillor Marian Mathers aware of this and she has assured us that she will be calling for action from council and whatever other agency needs to be contacted to get this addressed as soon as possible.

The Late Mrs McCorry

It is with great sadness that we learnt this morning of the passing of Mrs McCorry formerly of Iveagh Crescent Newry. Our thoughts go out this morning to her sorrowing sons and daughters and wider family circle. RIP

Pig Hall Lonan

The cumann has been made aware of a potentially serious issue whereby cars are using the slip road off the Camlough Road down to Orior Road at an alarming rate recently. This is particularly happening when there is a build up of traffic on the Camlough Road. Residents are very fearful for their children who play in the front gardens of their house at Helen's Terrace and are afraid that there is an accident waiting to happen. This road is continually being used as a short cut and it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt or worse. Residents have asked Sinn Féin to lobby on their behalf to get speed ramps constructed along this stretch of road. The cumann has met with some of the elected reps and are planning a plan of action to try and deal with this.

Dangerous Drugs

Parents in the Meadow and Armagh Road area are asked to be vigilant after a number of highly dangerous pain killer tablets were found lying in an entry close to Ballinlare Gardens. The speedy actions of a community activist undoubtedly saved youngsters from harm by quickly removing the drugs from the area. He had the tablets assessed by a local pharmacy and was told that if they had been consumed it could have resulted in death or serious injury. The community activist disposed of the tablets immediately. Speaking about the incident, local Sinn Féin councillor Marian Mathers stated;
“The quick thinking and actions of the community activist has to be commended. I would appeal to parents and young people to be vigilant and to report any such findings immediately to community association members or the police. The tablets involved, were I believe, strong painkillers but in the wrong hands could prove lethal. I will be making representations to the council to ensure that these entries are cleaned and maintained regularly.”

Elected Reps Clinic

The Hughes Grant Watters cumann in conjunction with the Marks McKeown cumann have organised an Elected Reps clinic for Saturday 26th September 2009 from 11.30am-1.30pm. The clinic will be held in the Meadow/Armagh Road Community Centre. Everyone is welcome to come along and discuss any issues that they might have. Mickey Brady MLA who has 25 years experinece in welfare rights issues will be in attendance. Forms include;
DLA Forms/Attendance Allowance
Carers Allowance/Community Care Grant
ESA Forms/Income Support Forms
Passport Forms/Driving License Forms
If you know anyone who wishes to avail of this service they are more than welcome to come along.

Whitegates Shopping Complex

A number of complaints have been received by the cumann in relation to anti-social activity in and around the community centre in the Meadow. There is a fear that the shop units that operate out of there will have to relocate due to loss of trade. Local people have spoken of their fears and are feeling extremely intimidated having to walk through a tirade of abuse from youngsters who congregate at the front of the shops. Other people have spoken about having footballs kicked against their cars every time they park near the shop. Most of the youngsters are from in and around the area and they don't realise the damage that they are causing. Speaking about the incidents Sinn Féin councillor for the area Marian Mathers said;

"The shopping complex in Killeavy Road serves a lot of people from that area and is an essential community facility. There is a real danger that retailers in the complex will consider moving because of the ongoing problems. This facility is the envy of other areas and it would be a shame if they were forced to close due to anti-social behaviour. I would call on all parents to ensure that they know the where abouts of their children at all times and not to allow the complex to be used as a kick about area. There is lots of room for football to be kicked in the all weather facility on the line and I would encourage youngsters to use this area rather than annoying residents who rely on the shops on a daily basis".

Unveiling of New Monument

The following is the oration at the unveiling ceremony by south Armagh Republican Sean Hughes;

"I would like to thank Newry Sinn Féin for the invite to speak here tonight at the unveiling of this monument. I would like to commend the Hughes Grant Watters cumann for their work and the effort in building this tribute to five brave IRA Volunteers from this area. I want to give a special mention to cumann members Paddy Doherty and Jim Rowntree who were also involved in the erection of the previous monument that the late Martin Meehan unveiled here 16 years ago. I also want to acknowledge the contribution that the people of Derrybeg made towards this project. Indeed there is no greater tribute to any fallen volunteer than a monument as fitting as this to be erected in the area from which they came by their friends, neighbours and comrades.

"I know this makes their families very proud.

"I take this opportunity to welcome former comrades of Patsy, Eddie, Michael, Brendan and Collie, many of whom are here tonight. I especially want to welcome the Hughes, Grant Watters and Marks families here. I want to extend our solidarity to them and acknowledge the grief and pain that they have suffered. Families of our fallen volunteers hold a special place in the Republican Movement. We cherish this relationship and value their support which has been unwavering over all these years and we appreciate and respect them for that.

"This monument is dedicated to 5 especially brave and dedicated IRA Volunteers from Derrybeg. Ordinary young men who rose to meet the extraordinary challenges facing them. They faced these challenges at different times and in different phases of the struggle. They were all of different age and different type. They were unique individuals in their own right. However, all 5 possed the qualities that motivated them that when they seen the injustice and oppression being imposed upon their communities, they stepped up to the plate and put themselves forward to defend the people of their area. They joined the ranks of Óglaigh Na hÉireann in order to build a new country based on the ideals contained within the proclamation of 1916.

"Tonight we remember Patsy Hughes who was a 35 year old married man with 7 childen when he was killed on active service at Newry Customs Post on August 22nd 1972.

"We also remember his son Michael (Sticky) Hughes who at only 16 years of age was shot dead here in Derrybeg by the British Army whilst on active service just over 2 years after his father's death. We can only imagine the devastation felt by the Hughes' family at that time and since. The previous year Eddie (Starchy) Grant who was a friend of Sticky, was killed on active service down the town on Christmas Eve 1973 at the age of 17.

"On this year on the one hundredth anniversary of the founding of Na Fianna Eireann by Bulmer Hobson and Countess Markvievz, we reflect on the contribution that our young people have made to the struggle over the years and we remember volunteers like Michael and Eddie who gave their all and lost their lives at such a tender age.

"Ten years later in August 1984, Volunteer Brendan (Cindy) Watters was killed on active service, he was 24 years old, he too had come up through the ranks of Na Fianna and joined Óglaigh Na hÉireann. Brendan was respected by all his comrades as a fearless and resourceful Volunteer.

And finally in April 1991 Collie Marks was shot dead in a shoot to kill operation by the RUC in Downpatrick. He was an experienced operator who had suffered years of harrassment. He too was a dedicated and committed Volunteer, assassinated whilst prosecuting the war outside of his own area. We all remember the disgraceful comments of Eddie McGrady at that time.

"We are extrememly proud of these 5 Volunteers. They were ours, they came from this area. They were decent, selfless and honourable people who gave their all for a just cause and this monument is indeed a fitting tribute to them. Collectively, they represent a generation of resistance by the people of Derrybeg. From the early 1970's when Patsy, Eddie and Michael stood with the people here to defend their areas during the Civil Unrest of that time, when Nationalists were being beaten off the streets for demanding basic Civil Rights. Up until the 1980's and 90's when Collie, Brendan and their comrades brought the Armed Struggle to a new height and brought the British Government to the negotiating table in the realisation that the IRA would not be defeated.

"This area has indeed a proud history and has every right to have a sense of itself. Derrybeg's name has become synonymous with struggle and resistance. This community has seen it all, suffered all the injustices, and came through it unbowed and unbroken. Derrybeg was built in the early 1960's by the Stormont Regime which ran the Orange State at that time. It amounted to a few hundred homes. Many of the original families are still resident in the area and are with us here tonight. There was one road in and one road out in an attempt to ghettoise the population. They witnessed the raids and brutality of the B specials in the 1960's, and, when the Nationalist people of the 6 counties came onto the streets demanding their Rights, Derrybeg was to the fore. Indeed, 40 years ago, when the 6 counties erupted and the Orange State began to crumble Newry was centre stage. In the week after Bloody Sunday thousands of people marched from here into the town in defiance. Hundreds of homes were raided here during Internment when there WAS internment without trial.

"Twelve year old Kevin Heatley was shot dead from this spot by the British Army in February 1973. We remember him tonight. This area has remained a Republican stronghold and continues to play its part in the ongoing development of our struggle. The IRA were defenders of the people and the community opened their doors to them. I want to make a special mention of the women of the area. Six women from this estate served prison sentences and countless others played crucial roles during the war and since.

"This area has seen great change since the early 1970's, the Six County State has been reformed. This is 2009 not 1969, Natioanlists have come off their knees and are now confident about the future. Some Unionists want to go back to the old regime but there is no going back, the ORANGE STATE HAS GONE. COLLIE, BRENDAN, MICHAEL, EDDIE, PATSY AND THEIR COMRADES HAVE SEEN TO THAT.

"Their efforts have lifted the struggle to a new phase and presented us with new challenges and new opportunities. The potential exists to deliver our Republican objectives by another means.

"Ógaligh Na hÉireann has by their iniatives, created the space to allow us to achieve this. We have outlined a strategy that we believe can deliver this.

"Some may seek to undermine it and say that they have another one. They need to outline it to us, tell us what what it is and more importantly put it to the people and seek their support just as we did. If we remain focussed and apply the same level of committment and determination to what we have to do, as the Volunteers that we remember here tonight did, then, i am confident that we can deliver the new Ireland in line with the vision to which these 5 men aspired. We are now in the business of closing the deal, completing the journey that we set out on many years ago. We need to be strategic and patient in our approach while implementing our strategy, we have to continually develop and build our political strenght. we need to remain rooted and relevant to our communities. Just as we did during times of crisis and challenges in the past. We must continue to champion peoples rights in the light of the economic difficulties that our communities now face. We need to do this on all of the island especially in the 26 counties in order to make ourselves more relevant and build our political and electoral strength to drive our strategy forward. Locally we must consolidate the electoral gains made in Newry/Armagh over the last decade and prepare for the defense of Sinn Féin's Westminster seat next year. we must constantly keep moving Unionism in the direction that we want them to go, continue to develop and build upon the All Ireland aspects of the Good Friday Agreement and simultaneously convince Unionism that they would be more secure within a United Ireland. We need to continue with the job of bringing about the necessary changes to policing in this state and i want to commend those who work within Sinn Féin and the District Policing Partnerships in order to bring this about. We have seen enough bad policing, our communities deserve better and we intend to deliver on this issue.

"These are considerable challenges, we must rise to meet them just as the volunteers we remember here tonight did in their time. We are confident that our stategy will succeed and deliver our primary objective of a free, democratic and socialist Republic.

"Only that would serve as a final tribute to Patsy, Eddie, Michael, Brendan and Collie. We are determined to see that to its fruition. We owe it to them and to those who have died before and since.

"Go raibh maith agat, Beir bua agus tiocfaidh ar lá."

Rededication Parade

Saturday 29th August 2009

Assemble 6.30pm Bottom of Camloch Road

Parade to New Monument Second Avenue Derrybeg

Wreath Laying at Volunteer Michael Hughes' Monument

Speaker Sean Hughes

Function Afterwards Bellagio Suite Bellinis Newry

Táille £5

Everyone Welcome

Cumann Activism

Just in case some people didn't understand why this blog is here, let me remind you. It is here to promote the local cumann and let people know in advance about upcoming events in the area that the cumann are involved in. It is not a talking shop for others to attack our movement and it is certainly not intended to be a platform for micro groups. Feel free to observe what we intend to do in the district by logging onto the blog.

National Draw Tickets

Sinn Féin National Draw Tickets are now on sale from local activists.
The prizes are:

1st -E20,000
2nd - Holiday of your Choice to the value of E2,000
3rd - E1,000
4th - E750
5th - E500
Plus 45 prizes of E150

Táille E15/stg £10

Draw takes place 17th October 2009

Leaflet Drop

I was very confused when i received a flyer through my door recently highlighting the campaign to "Free Colin Duffy". The flyer brought home to me things that we had to endure some years ago when crown force harrassment was way of daily life for many families in this community. The one thing that did annoy me was the slander that suggested that there are some people from this community who would rather that Colin wasn't mentioned at all. I for one knew Colin and his family and the author of this leaflet couldn't be further from the truth. The Duffy's solicitor and legal team should be shown what, if any, evidence there is against him and if there is none he should be released immediately. What i can't understand is why the bill board that was erected in Main Avenue wasn't erected on the busy Camloch Road which has thousands of people driving up and down every day. The people of Derrybeg don't need convincing of the plight of Irish prisoners and one has to ask why the billboard was erected at the entrance to Second Avenue. We are expecting a large crowd in that area for the unveiling of the new monument on the 29th August and maybe this is why that junction was picked. I would also like someone to explain why Collie is the only republican prisoner being highlighted for release. It just begs the question who are these people's real enemies, is it the Brits or is it Sinn Féin?

Mystery of Missing Flagpole

Rumours and innuendoes were rife around the removal of the flag pole in Sandy's field. All sorts of stories were being fired around as to what actually did happen. (We even heard that Willie "Walter Mitty" Frazier was the culprit).Most people will agree that the positioning of the pole was excellent as it could be seen from nearly every part of Newry and it became a sort of land mark. Everyone looked forward to Easter time when the 30ft tricolour was hoisted and flew proudly at the top of Sandy's field. The truth about the pole is that as time went by the mechanical pulley system inside the pole had snapped leaving it virtually impossible to reach the flag without the use of a telescopic forklift. The cumann decided that the pole had to replaced for safety reasons. So there you have it folks the people who erected the pole some years ago, took it down and we are pleased to announce that as we speak a brand new pole is being manufactured and will be in situ very soon.

Rededication Parade

Saturday 29th August at 6.30pm.

Assemble at bottom of Camlough Road, Saturday 29th August 2009 @ 6.30pm

Parade to monument at Main Avenue Derrybeg

Speaker: Lifelong Republican Sean Hughes

Function afterwards in Bellagio Suite Bellini's Newry

Ceol agus Craic

Taille £5

Tickets available from cumann members.

Encouraging Discussion

Having recently talked to a number of republican ex POW's as to where they thought that the political project was headed at present, i was greatly encouraged to hear their thoughts. Here are some people who have given their all for the Republican Movement and who sacrificed so much to achieve the ultimate goal. While fully understanding why some republicans are unhappy and indeed opposed to the Sinn Fein strategy, they stated that the Sinn Féin strategy is the only one that will achieve Irish unity. It is worth mentioning at this point that the people who spoke to me are not political activists but are fully spportive of the present Sinn Fein strategy. One of them made the point very clearly that the present leadership spoke to the prisoners right throughout the peace process and have followed that through to the present day. It was said from the start that this would be a slow and sometimes difficult process and that unity is the key to all of this. It has to be noted that not everyone is interested in politicals but most of the men and women who came through the jails are fully supportive of the present strategy. The old cliché comes into play "horses for courses".
The policing issue was talked about in length. Policing is a necessity in any society and for too long a lot of nationalist youth were subject to daily harrassment from members of the crown forces, young people who had no politics grew to hate the crown forces and viewed them as a loyalist paramilitary force. They were subjected to daily stop and search routines and watched helplessly as family members were hauled off to interogation centres. But they agreed that things are changing for the better and people want and deserve a police service who are impartial and even handed. Communities are torn apart by local drug dealers and anti social elements and they need to feel confident in helping to remove these people from our areas and not feel threatened in doing so. There is a long way to go until we get the police service that we strive for but things are going in the right direction. One thorny issue that was discussed was the use of plastic bullets recently in Ardoyne and we were all in agreement that these weapons which have caused so much pain down through the years must be taken from the hands of the police. They are not and will not be acceptable to nationalists.
So i left the discussion happy and pleased to hear that people who made a massive contribution to our struggle are still fully behind Sinn Féin's political stratey for bringing about national unity.

Re-dedication of Monument for Fallen IRA Volunteers from Derrybeg

A decision was taken some time ago by the cumann to refurbish the Celtic Cross which stood on the spot of the old flats on Main Avenue, Derrybeg. The existing Cross that had stood there for some years was beginning to show signs of slight damage due to weather beating. After some hard debates and discussions the cumann came up with a draft plan of what we hoped the new monument might look like and we then set about to fund raise to help cover the cost of the monument. As usual the residents of the estate stood up to the mark and very generously contributed towards the project. As a result of this the new monument will be unveiled on Saturday 29th August 2009. All the families of our fallen volunteers have been kept fully up to date and we look forward to seeing them at the unveiling.

Hughes Grant Watters Sinn Féin Newry

The cumann will try to keep people up to date with events in the area

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