Sinn Féin Ard Fheis: Leader's speech

Sinn Féin's annual ard fheis took place in Athlone, where Mary Lou McDonald, the party president, delivered a significant address. This event marked a pivotal moment for Michelle O’Neill, who is attending her first party conference as First Minister. In her speech, O’Neill expressed uncertainty regarding the new UK government, indicating that the 'jury is still out' on its performance. Despite a successful Westminster election in July, where Sinn Féin retained all seven seats, the party faced challenges in the south, particularly after disappointing local and European elections in June. McDonald aims to revitalize the party's standing in the south by launching an alternative budget focused on making housing and childcare more affordable, hoping to improve their poll numbers ahead of the next general election.