clar 2015 - an ireland for all

an Ireland for all

Éire do chách

The closest DART (local Dublin Rail) station to the RDS is Sandymount, and is approximately a 5 minute walk away.

From the Sandymount Dart Station: Follow the Exit signs and turn right onto Sandymount Avenue. Continue until you reach the traffic lights (Bewley’s Hotel and the Four Seasons Hotel will be directly in front of you). For the RDS Main Complex (Hall 1 – 7) then turn right onto Merrion Road and the Main Complex is situated on the left hand side (Merrion Road).

The RDS is serviced by bus numbers: Merrion Road Stops: 27X, 4, 45, 4A, 5, 7, 7A, 8, 18Anglesea Road Stops: 63, 84

There are also a large numbers of routes serviced through the Donnybrook Bus Garage stop which is located only 10 minutes walk from the RDS. Bus routes include: 10, 10A, 116, 118, 145, 25X, 37X, 39B, 39X, 46A/B/C/E/X, 47, 66X, 67X, 70B, 746, 7B, 7D, 84X.

76ú Ard-Fheis Clár 1

Contents

Message from Micheál Martin TD .........................................................................4General Secretary’s Welcome .................................................................................6Córú Fhianna Fáil ........................................................................................................7Membership Information ........................................................................................8Dates for Your Diary ...................................................................................................91916 Centenary Celebrations ...............................................................................10Ógra Fianna Fáil ........................................................................................................12Fobairt na Gaeilge ....................................................................................................14Carlow Kilkenny Bye-Election ...............................................................................15Parliamentary Party Contact Details ..................................................................16Current Ard Chomhairle .........................................................................................23Honorary Secretaries’ Report ................................................................................24 Joint Honorary Treasurers’ Report .......................................................................28 Ard Fheis Elections ...................................................................................................31 Vice President ...............................................................................................34 Committee of 15 ..........................................................................................38Resolutions .................................................................................................................47 Social Protection ..........................................................................................49 Communications, Energy and Natural Resources .............................50 Environment and Local Government ....................................................51 Health ..............................................................................................................53 Children ..........................................................................................................55 Finance and Public Expenditure .............................................................56 Transport, Tourism and Sport ..................................................................58 Defence ...........................................................................................................59 Justice and Equality ....................................................................................60 Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht ............................................................62 Agriculture, Food and Community Affairs ...........................................63 Education and Skills ....................................................................................64 Foreign Affairs & Northern Ireland .........................................................66 Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation .............................................................68 Organisation .................................................................................................70

www.fiannafail.ie

Note on Schedule

Please Note:

The schedule of events for the 76ú Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis is outlined separately in your Ard Fheis mailing and will also be available in the RDS throughout the event.

Please make sure to consult it for the most up-to-date time and location information.

Ard Fheis Entertainment

Saturday Entertainment:

Traditional Music Session, 9:30 in The Dubliner Bar, Ballsbridge Hotel.

Traditional music from Fianna Fáil members and friends.

Musicians and singers especially welcome to join in!

To follow – Trabba 11.00 till late

Fáilte go dti an 76ú Ard Fheis Fhianna Fáil. Tá suil agam go mbulafidh me libh I rith na deireadh seachtaine agus sinn ag ple na dushlain tabhachta ata os comhair ar dtir agus ar bpairti.

It is good to be back in the RDS. It has been a very busy year since our last Ard Fheis in Killarney. Due to all your hard work and dedication we had a very successful local elections last May and actually did better than any poll predicted. I want to thank you all for your hard work and I believe if we all remain focused on serving our communities we will also gain seats in the general election.

The economy is recovering but what Fine Gael and Labour never mention is the seeds of recovery that are growing now are as a result of the National Recovery Plan and they voted against at every turn when they were in opposition. However, the recovery is not being felt anywhere outside Dublin city.

I have been canvassing with our bye election candidate Bobby Alyward in the Carlow Kilkenny constituency and this is coming up at nearly every door. People there believe this government have let them down and that there is a crisis of disconnection with rural Ireland.

Communities are struggling and feel that the system is letting them down. Families are struggling and those who are lucky enough to have jobs are seeing diminishing returns for their work. Wages are lower and there is a huge sense that workers are not getting a fair deal. We are seeing that

with the abuse of zero hour contracts, some workers are on these contracts for years and have no sense of progression in their work place. This needs to change.

The government are talking about reducing taxes while at the same time introducing water and property taxes on top of their normal taxes. We will be discussing these challenges, along with the costs of childcare during the weekend and how Fianna Fáil believes these can be tackled.

We will also be outlining how the mortgage crisis can be dealt with. This government have failed people who are unable to pay their mortgages as they have left the banks keep the veto on how mortgages are dealt with. As a result, there are hundreds of repossession cases in the circuit courts in every county in the country. Ireland has the highest mortgage variable rates in Europe, yet the government is refusing to direct the banks to deal with it.

Fianna Fáil is deeply proud of its direct roots in the rebellion of 1916. Our first leader, and the most successful Irish political leader of the 20th century, Éamon De Valera was the most senior leader of the rebellion to survive. The entire founding generation of our party was made up of people who risked everything for the cause of their country in 1916.

We are proud of our heritage and we also acknowledge the heritage of others. We see our activities as one part of what should be an inclusive national commemoration and celebration of our State’s founding event.

www.fiannafail.ie

Message from Micheál Martin TD, Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil


Leader’s Welcome

The Irish public has shown time and again that 1916 can inspire a modern, democratic and international people. Fianna Fáil is proud of the role which the reintroduction of a major state commemoration in 2006 has played in this.

Finally, selection conventions are well underway and candidates are being selected to contest the next general election. I want to wish every candidate and their teams the very best.

Fianna Fáil has the largest number of members of any political party across the country. Even though the polls have been disappointing of late we should all remain focused and united on rebuilding our great party. The next general election is a significant step on this journey.

Le gach dea ghui

Micheál Martin TD Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil

The theme of this year’s Ard Fheis is “An Ireland for All” – and, over this weekend, our members and spokespeople will debate and discuss the key challenges facing Ireland and our Party’s responses to these. These debates will be very important and I encourage you to participate fully in them. In addition to the main debates in the Shelbourne Hall, we have organised many policy workshops and fringe meetings over the weekend. Please consult your detailed schedule for further information.

This is a particularly important Ard Fheis, coming less than one year from the next general election. Since we last met, we have had a particularly successful local elections. The local elections result has given inspiration to our party members about what’s possible for our Party to achieve. As you know, our preparations for the general elections commenced late last year and our work is well underway. The National Constituencies Committee, chaired by Michael Moynihan TD, convenes weekly and has been going about its work with great diligence and detail. Our objective is to have our candidate selection process completed over the coming two months and our team for the general election in place as early as possible.

It’s clear that the next general election will be critically important for the Party. However, Dáil seats are not easily won. The task of winning a seat in those constituencies where we currently have none should not be underestimated. Every seat won will be won as a result of a clear and agreed candidate strategy, with the candidate(s) working hard in their communities. I commit that we will support our candidates every way we can and that we have clear and focussed plans in

place for each candidate and constituency. Be assured that we will leave no stone unturned as we prepare for this important election.

As part of our candidate selection process, our Party will also be focussed on running more women candidates. While this is now a legal requirement, it is also the right thing to do. For too long, we have been behind the curve in relation to this issue. I encourage our members to fully embrace this initiative and to encourage more women to participate in the selection process, and once selected, to support those candidates.

I wish Bobby Aylward every success in the upcoming bye-election. I encourage and invite all members to come to Carlow Kilkenny over the coming weeks to support this important campaign.

I wish those contesting the Ard Chomhairle elections good luck this weekend. It’s a great testament to the strength and energy within our organisation that so many are seeking election!

Finally, I thank the dedicated staff in both Fianna Fáil Headquarters and Leinster House. They work tirelessly for the Party and make a real difference. They are great colleagues whose commitment to the Party is commendable.

If you have any comments on the Ard Fheis, or any suggestions on any aspect of our organisation, please feel free to email me at [email protected].

I wish you an enjoyable weekend and look forward to meeting with you.

www.fiannafail.ie

General Secretary’s Welcome Seán Dorgan, General Secretary

Seán Dorgan General Secretary


Córú Fianna Fáil

Fianna Fáil is a National Movement. Its aims are:

(i) To secure in peace and agreement the unity of Ireland and its people.

(ii) To develop a distinctive national life in accordance with the diverse traditions and

ideals of the Irish people as part of a broader European culture, and to restore and

promote the Irish language as a living language of the people.

(iii) To guarantee religious and civil liberty, and equal rights, equal treatment and equal

opportunities for all the people of Ireland.

(iv) To develop the resources and wealth of Ireland to their full potential, while making

them subservient to the needs and welfare of all the people of Ireland, so as to

provide the maximum sustainable employment, based on fostering a spirit of

enterprise and self-reliance and on social partnership.

(v) To protect the natural environment and heritage of Ireland and to ensure a balance

between town and country and between the regions, and to maintain as many

families as practicable on the land.

(vi) To promote the family, and a wider sense of social responsibility, and to uphold the

rule of law in the interest of the welfare and safety of the public.

(vii) To maintain the status of Ireland as a sovereign State, as a full member of the

European Union and the United Nations, contributing to peace, disarmament and

development on the basis of Ireland’s independent foreign policy tradition.

(viii) To reform the laws and institutions of State, to make them efficient, humane, caring

and responsive to the needs of the citizen.

Córú Fhianna Fáil

Fianna Fáil Membership

www.fiannafail.ie

Here are 4 easy ways to apply to join Fianna Fáil

• Log on to the website: www.fiannafail.ie

• Email: [email protected]

• Phone: 01 6761551

• Write to: Membership Department, Fianna Fáil Headquarters, 65\66 Lower Mount Street. Dublin 2

Fianna Fáil Membership

There are two different forms of Fianna Fáil membership. Fully subscribed Voting Members are those who have paid their €20 subscription. Voting members have rights at their Cumann, Comhairle Ceantair and Comhairle Dáil Ceantair. They also have voting rights at selection conventions convened in their area and at Ard Fheiseanna. This Ard Fheis will also make a decision as to whether members will have voting rights in future elections to decide the Leader of Fianna Fáil. In addition, members will determine whether Fianna Fáil will enter future coalition governments. Associate Members are those who choose not to pay the €20 subscription. Associate members can attend cumann meetings and other events but may not vote in any Party decisions.

Members who wish to become, or remain, fully subscribed Voting Members can do so using the appropriate membership form, obtainable from Fianna Fáil headquarters, or from the Fianna Fáil stand in the Ard Fheis exhibition area. Alternatively, you can pay your membership subscription online at www.fiannafail.ie/member.

Please note: Renewing members must submit their renewal form before 31st May 2015 in order to preserve their voting rights.

Members able to pay their subscription via a Direct Debit option can also avail of a number of money saving payemt options so please make sure to check those out on the membership renewal form.

Fianna Fáil is hugely grateful for the support and efforts of our membership, in every community, county and corner of our country. Thank you for everything you do for Fianna Fáil.

Dates for Your Diary



Fri 22nd May 2015 Marriage Equality Referendum & Carlow Kilkenny Bye-Election Polling Day

22nd-24th September 2015 National Ploughing Championships - Ratheniska, Co. Laois.

Sat 10th October 2015 Annual Cairde Fáil President’s Dinner - DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Upper Leeson Street, Dublin 4.

Sun 18th October 2015 Fianna Fáil Annual Wolfe Tone Commemoration - Bodenstown, Sallins, Co. Kildare.

November 2015 (TBC) Ógra National Youth Conference - Location TBC

Sun 29th November 2015 Éamon de Valera Commemoration - Ennis, Co. Clare

Sun 17th April 2016 Arbour Hill Commemoration - Arbour Hill Cemetery, Dublin 7

Micheál Martin TD talks with two young exhibitors at the 2014 Young Scientist Awards.

Carlow Kilkenny bye-election candidate Bobby Aylward takes a break from canvassing.

www.fiannafail.ie

2016 marks the centenary of one of Ireland’s most significant historical events, the 1916 Easter Rising. The Rising sparked the flame which led to the creation of an independent Irish Parliament, Dáil Éireann in 1919, the War of Independence and subsequently the creation of an independent Irish State.

The creation of Fianna Fáil, as a national movement, was inspired by the Leaders of the Rising and founded on the ideals of the Proclamation. Many of the founding members of our Party played a central role in the fighting of Easter Week; Éamon de Valera being the last commander of the Irish Volunteers to cease fire in Boland’s Mills.

In order to honour those who fought in the Rising and to celebrate this event’s monumental impact on the Irish Nation, the Fianna Fáil Party established a Commemoration Committee/Coiste 1916 chaired by Éamon Ó Cuív TD to plan how best to commemorate the centenary. This Committee has invited submissions as to how best the Party should commemorate the 1916 Rising in 2015 and 2016.

Fianna Fáil National Events in 2015 and 2016

Scoil Samhraidh Laochra 1916, Rosmuc 2015.

Wolfe Tone Commemoration, Bodenstown, 18th October 2015. Theobold Wolfe Tone was the founder of Irish Republicanism from which 1916 drew its inspiration.

Éamon de Valera Memorial Mass, Ennis, November 2015.

National Fianna Fáil 1916 Commemoration, Arbour Hill, 24th April 2016.

Fianna Fáil 1916 Concert, Dublin, 24th April 2016.

Scoil Samhraidh – Laochra 1916, Rosmuc, August 2016.

Wolfe Tone Commemoration, Bodenstown, October 2016.

Éamon de Valera Memorial Mass, Ennis, November 2016.

1916 Centenary CelebrationsRemembering the Rising

ÉIR

Í AM

AC

H NA CÁSCA 1916 - EASTER RISIN

G 19

16 - FIA

NNA FÁIL COMÓRADH NÁIS

IÚN

TA -


Fri 22nd May 2015 Marriage Equality Referendum & Carlow Kilkenny Bye-Election Polling Day

22nd-24th September 2015 National Ploughing Championships - Ratheniska, Co. Laois.

Sat 10th October 2015 Annual Cairde Fáil President’s Dinner - DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Upper Leeson Street, Dublin 4.

Sun 18th October 2015 Fianna Fáil Annual Wolfe Tone Commemoration - Bodenstown, Sallins, Co. Kildare.

November 2015 (TBC) Ógra National Youth Conference - Location TBC

Sun 29th November 2015 Éamon de Valera Commemoration - Ennis, Co. Clare

Sun 17th April 2016 Arbour Hill Commemoration - Arbour Hill Cemetery, Dublin 7

Micheál Martin TD talks with two young exhibitors at the 2014 Young Scientist Awards.

Carlow Kilkenny bye-election candidate Bobby Aylward takes a break from canvassing.

Tá áthas orainn a bheith ar ais le chéile san RDS agus muid ag breathnú siar ar bhliain iontach, gnóthach eile d’Ógra. Ógra has a strong tradition of recruitment of members into the party from all over the island and the past year has been no exception. College recruitment saw Ógra retain its mantle as the largest political movement across 3rd level institutions in Ireland as local units continue to strengthen and grow, particularly in Dublin. Since we last gathered in Killarney, Ógra has engaged that new membership and has been involved in many various campaigns, not least the local elections.

CampaigningÓgra was front and centre at the local election campaign which saw Fianna Fáil return to being the largest party in local government. There were dozens of Ógra members who contested the elections, many of whom were successful but all of whom did a great job in helping to restore the party’s standing at the centre of Irish political discourse. Ógra has also run campaigns on voter registration which saw Ógra members out on the streets in towns all over the country, encouraging people to use their democratic voice. Our campaigning has also seen us launch our own pre-budget submission, make submissions to the Central Bank on mortgage rules and to the Dept. of Health on the Public Health 2015 Bill.

Gaining a voice in EuropeSince the last Ard Fheis, Ógra has become a full member of LYMEC, giving us a

platform in Europe from which to influence European policy and to promote the ideals of Fianna Fáil on a wider basis. This has been a long process that has involved the dedicated work by many members down through the years but it is heartening to be welcomed into the youth wing of ALDE of which Fianna Fáil is a member. Being a member of a European movement like this allows us to pool resources and gain from our collective experiences, just as the senior party does.

National Youth Conference/National CouncilIt was a privilege to see so many of our new Councillors and our new friends from LYMEC attend Ógra’s National Youth Conference in Clane where I was honoured to have been elected as the new Úachtarán Ógra. The last Central Officer Board have left us big shoes to fill but over the coming months, as we prepare for the General Election, I believe we have the people in Ógra to once again lead the charge and convince the Irish people that Fianna Fáil are only party that have heeded the collective call for change they delivered in the last General Election. The new look Central Officer Board is as follows:

Uachtarán – Eoin Neylon Policy and Campaigns Director – Ian Woods Events Director – Barry Gillen Membership & Recruitment Director – Jessica Ní Mhaoláin 3rd Level Coordinator – Mark Holt Irish Language & Culture Officer – Feidhlim Mac Róibín

Ógra Fianna FáílUachtarán Ógra Fhianna Fáil, Eoin Neylon

www.fiannafail.ie


Ógra Fianna Fáil

Dublin Organiser – James Doyle Munster Organiser – David Griffin Connacht/Ulster Organiser – David Keane Northern Organiser – Briege Mac Oscar Leinster Organiser – Darren Hughes

Since then, Ógra’s National Council approved the formation of two new positions to reflect the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Ógra. The first is a Gender Equality officer which was filled by Sinéad Lucey and the other is an International Officer which was taken up by Keith Henry. Together, we hope to set Ógra on a path to help Fianna Fáil win the next election. The National Council also elected a new chair and secretary in recent months, namely Sam Geoghegan and Niamh Traynor respectively.

Upcoming ReferendumOver the next month, we will be canvassing hard for a Yes vote in the Marriage Equality referendum. We in Ógra believe that as Republicans we have a duty to ensure that no one in Ireland is treated as a second class citizen but that, at present, there is a situation where people are being discriminated against in the eyes of the law based on superficial differences. Fianna Fáil has always led the country on LGBT rights and, once more, we will do so in order to bring about a truly inclusive Republic that cherishes each of its children equally. Nothing could be more fitting of a commemoration of the 1916 proclamation than to act to bring about the very principles of equality and fraternity it champions.

A republican campaign for the General ElectionWe will be contributing heavily to our manifesto to ensure that ours is the platform that leaves no Irish person behind, just like the Fianna Fáil of old. As we approach the centenary of the Easter Rising, a pivotal moment in Irish history, we should reflect on where we see the country going. Are we living in a society that fits the themes of the proclamation? Do we offer to all religious and civil liberty, equal rights and equal opportunities? At present, the answer to these questions is no, but under Fianna Fáil we will move the country in the right direction to rectify that. We will close the gender pay gap. We will promote the cause of social justice. We will fight hard for Ireland’s interests in Europe. We will allow every child the same opportunity to access education. We will make it easier for Irish SME’s to compete both locally and internationally. These are the policies that Fianna Fáil best represent and the issues on which Ógra will be fighting hard for the party over the year ahead. Together, we can show the people - all the people - that Fianna Fáil is the one party with their interest at heart. This will start with the bye-election in Carlow/Kilkenny. I hope to see you on the campaign trail there.

To find out more about Ógra, talk to us at our stand in the main hall and come to the Ógra session on Youth Entrepeneurship to join us in forming party policy. Tá súil agam go mbeidh Ard Fheis den scoth agat.

Is cuid lárnach do pholasaith Fhianna Fáil é úsáid agus cur chun cinn na Gaeilge. I Rialtas, thug Fianna Fáil tacaíocht don Ghaeilge mar theanga laethúil an phobail. Le blianta beaga anuas is féidir linn a rá go raibh ról lárnach againn i mborradh na teanga – go háirithe i dtaobh fhás ghluaiseacht na nGaelscoileanna.

Táimid bródúil as an méid atá déanta againn ar son na Gaeltachta agus ar son mhuintir na Gaeltachta chomh maith. Tá infreastruchtúr na nGaeltachtaí agus na nOileán feabhsaithe go mór. Sna blianta amach romhainn tá Fianna Fáil ar son cúram fiontraíochta Údarás a choinneáil. Tá sé seo in aitheantas don ghá atá ann fostaíocht a chaomhnú agus a chruthú sna ceantair Ghaeltachta chun an teanga a choinneáil beo agus beoga.

Mar pháirtí pholaitiúil, táimid bródúil as an méid atá bainte amach ar son na teanga agus ar son daoine atá ag iarraidh feidhmiú gach lá trí mheán na Gaeilge. Chuireamar Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla in áit. Bhunaíomar Oifig an Choimisinéara Teanga.

Bhunaiomar Foras na Gaeilge agus leathnaigh muid soláthar oideachais trí mheán na Gaeilge – go háirithe sna Gaelscoileanna agus ag an tríú leibhéal. Ar an stáitse idirnáisiúnta, bhaineamar amach ardú stádais don Ghaeilge san Aontas Eorpach. Ní aontaímid le cinneadh an Rialtais deireadh a chur le neamhspleáchas Oifig an Choimisinéara Teanga agus táimid ag iarraidh an chinneadh seo a athrú. Ní aontaímid le deireadh a chur leis na Toghecháín do Údarás na Gaeltachta agus beidh an Údarás tofa go díreach ag an bpobal i bpolasaí Fhianna Fáil.

D’fhoilsíomar treoirphlean don Ghaeilge -

Straitéis 20 Bliain don Ghaeilge. Is Straitéis í seo a thugann treoirphlean maidir le caomhnú agus athbheochan na Gaeilge thar tréimhse 20 bliain.

Tuigimid níos mó ná aon rud eile go gcaithfimid tús áite a thabhairt don Ghaeilge sa chórás oideachais.

Táimid go láidir den tuairim go bhfuil gá níos mó béime a leagan ar an teanga labhartha sa seomra ranga chun teanga beo a chinntiú. Táimid tiomanta chun an Gaeilge a choinneál mar chroí-ábhar don Ardteist, chun tacaíochta a thabhairt don churaclaim athchóirithe Gaeilge don Ardteist agus chun leanúint lenár dtacaíocht do na Gaelscoileanna agus do na Scoileanna Gaeltachta teagasc trí mheán na Gaeilge.

Is féidir a rá go bhfuil easpa tiomantais ag an Rialtas i leith na Gaeilge. Táimidne i bhFianna Fáil bródúil as an méid atá bainte amach againn i Rialtas agus tugaimid gealltanas don phobal nach nglacfaimid le haon athraithe a thógfaidh ón dul chun chinn atá deánta. Is seoid naisiúnta í an Ghaeilge, agus caithfimid, mar Phairtí pholaitiúil agus mar thír, gach iarracht a dhéanamh an Ghaeilge a choinneáil beo agus beoga.

Forbairt na GaeligeMichael P. Kitt TD, Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Gaeltacht Affairs

www.fiannafail.ie

Forbairt na Gaelige


Carlow Kilkenny Bye-Election

On 22nd May, the people of Carlow and Kilkenny have an opportunity to send the government a message. For the past four years, the government has held 4 of the 5 seats in this constituency but they’ve still taken it for granted and ignored the real concerns of our communities.

This government keep telling us that the recovery is underway. But all across this region, we have families and communities that are really hurting. The recovery which they refer to hasn’t been seen or heard in rural Ireland, or indeed in many parts of our towns.

We want to get everyone in our organisation behind Bobby and we have to hit the ground early, ensuring that we have a presence in every village and town across Carlow and Kilkenny. Bobby has worked hard for this constituency. He is an experienced and energised voice fighting for communities.

We are planning canvass blitzes most weekends and we need all the help we can get.

If you can help please contact Marguerite on [email protected] or the campaign office on 086- 0455735.

Campaign Office Address:

Bagenal Court, Court Place, Carlow

60 Upper John Street, Kilkenny

Support Bobby Aylward in the Carlow-Kilkenny Bye-Election

www.fiannafail.ie

Spokesperson on Marine & Fisheries

• Tel: 053 923 5046 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Lower Church Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford

John Browne TDWexford

Spokesperson on Justice & Equality

• Tel: 061 300 149 / 01 618 4277• Email: [email protected] • Office: Red House Hill, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick

Niall Collins TDLimerick County

Spokesperson on Jobs, Enterprise & Innovation

• Tel: 096 77613• Email: [email protected] • Office: 19 Pearse Road, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Dara Calleary TDMayo

Contact Details - Dáil Éireann

Spokesperson on Environment & Local Government

• Tel: 057 932 1976• Email: [email protected] • Office: Grand Canal House, William St, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Barry Cowen TDOffaly

Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism & Sport

• Tel: 065 689 1115 / 01 618 3514• Email: [email protected] • Office: 8 Mill Road, Ennis, Co. Clare

Timmy Dooley TDClare

Spokesperson on Agriculture, Food & Community Affairs

• Tel: 091 562 846 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Kirwan House, Flood Street, Galway, Co. Galway

Éamon Ó Cuív TDGalway West


Your Team in Leinster House

Seán Fleming TDLaois

Spokesperson on Public Expenditure & Reform

• Tel: 057 873 2692• Email: [email protected] • Office: Silveracre, Castletown, Portlaoise, Co. Laois

Colm Keaveney TDGalway East

Spokesperson on Mental Health & Special Needs

• Tel: 093 24070• Email: [email protected] • Office: Dublin Road, Tuam, Co. Galway

Billy Kelleher TDCork North Central

Spokesperson on Health

• Tel: 021 450 2289• Email: [email protected] • Office: 28a Ballyhooley Road, Dillon’s Cross, Co. Cork

Seamus Kirk TDLouth

Spokesperson on Horticulture & Rural Affairs

• Tel: 042 933 1032 / 01 618 3468 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Rathiddy, Knockbridge, Dundalk, Co. Louth

Spokesperson on Housing, Planning & Gaeltacht Affairs

• Tel: 090 967 8147• Email: [email protected] • Office: Castleblakeney, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

Michael P. Kitt TDGalway East

Leader & Spokesperson on Northern Ireland

• Tel: 021 432 0088• Email: [email protected] • Office: 137 Evergreen Road, Turner’s Cross, Co. Cork

Micheál Martin TDCork South Central

www.fiannafail.ie

Spokesperson on Education & Skills

• Tel: 074 937 3131• Email: [email protected] • Office: Chapel Street, Carndonagh, Co. Donegal

Charlie McConalogue TDDonegal

Spokesperson on Finance

• Tel: 021 437 6699 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Kilmoney Road, Carrigaline, Co. Cork

Michael McGrath TDCork South Central

Spokesperson on Small Business Regulatory Framework & Chairman, Public Accounts Committee

• Tel: 056 777 0672• Email: [email protected] • Office: O’Loughlin Road, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny

John McGuinness TDCarlow/Kilkenny

Spokesperson on Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

• Tel: 029 51299 / 01 618 3595• Email: [email protected] • Office: Percival St, Kanturk, Co. Cork/Lower Main St, Charleville, Co. Cork

Michael Moynihan TDCork North West

Fianna Fáil Whip & Spokesperson on Constitutional Reform; Arts & Culture; Defence

• Tel: 059 863 4805 / 01 618 3948• Email: [email protected] • Office: 4 Offaly Street, Athy, Co. Kildare

Seán Ó Fearghaíl TDKildare South

Spokesperson on Social Protection & Social Equality

• Tel: 061 454 488 / 061 454 522• Email: [email protected] • Office: 2 Glenview Gardens, Farrenshone, Limerick, Co. Limerick

Willie O’Dea TDLimerick City



Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs & Trade; Border Region Development

• Tel: 049 436 2366• Email: [email protected] • Office: 3 Carrickfern, Cavan, Co. Cavan

Brendan Smith TDCavan/Monaghan

Robert Troy TDLongford/Westmeath

Spokesperson on Children

• Tel: 0044 933 0769• Email: [email protected] • Office: Oliver Plunkett Street, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath

Senator Thomas ByrneMeath East

Spokesperson on Public Expenditure & Reform

• Tel: 01 618 3310 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Contact Details - Seanad Éireann

Senator Mark Daly

Kerry

Spokesperson on Communications, Energy & Natural Resources

• Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Spokesperson on Children & European Affairs

• Tel: 01 618 3853 / 01 618 4424• Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Senator Terry Leyden

Roscommon/Galway

Spokesperson on Health

• Tel: 086 267 4764• Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Senator Marc MacSharrySligo/Leitrim

www.fiannafail.ie

Spokesperson on Social Protection

• Tel: 01 618 3310 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Carrick Road, Drumshambo, Co. Leitrim

Senator Paschal MooneySligo/Leitrim

Spokesperson on Agriculture, Marine & Food

• Tel: 074 916 5466• Email: [email protected] • Office: Main Street, Gortahork, Co. Donegal

Senator Brian Ó Domhnaill

Donegal

Spokesperson on Arts, Heritage & Gaeltacht Affairs

• Tel: 062 61122 / 01 618 4018• Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú

Tipperary

Seanad Leader & Spokesperson on Finance

• Tel: 01 845 7741• Email: [email protected] • Office: Suite 7, Manor House, Church Road, Malahide, Co. Dublin

Senator Darragh O’BrienDublin Fingal

Leas Chathoirleach & Spokesperson on Justice, Equality & Defence

• Tel: 027 53840 / 01 618 3079 • Email: [email protected] • Office: Wolfe Tone Square, Bantry, Co. Cork

Senator Denis O’Donovan

Cork South West

Spokesperson on Transport, Tourism & Sport

• Tel: 068 21831• Email: [email protected] • Office: Cahirdown, Listowel, Co. Kerry

Senator Ned O’Sullivan

Kerry



Spokesperson on Education & Skills

• Tel: 01 618 3156• Email: [email protected] • Office: Seanad Éireann, Leinster House, Kildare Street, Dublin 2

Senator Averil Power

Dublin Bay North

Senator Mary White

Dublin Rathdown

Spokesperson on Enterprise, Jobs & Innovation

• Tel: 01 618 3820 • Email: [email protected] • Office: 6 Wyckham Park Road, Dundrum, Dublin 16

Senator Diarmuid Wilson

Cavan/Monaghan

Group Whip & Spokesperson on Environment, Community & Local Government

• Tel: 01 618 3561• Email: [email protected] • Office: 46 Carrickfern, Cavan, Co. Cavan

www.fiannafail.ie

Micheál Martin TD Chris Flood Rich Howlin

• Tel: (021) 4896433 • Email: [email protected] • Constituency Office: Maryborough Lodge, Maryborough Hill, Douglas, Co. Cork

Brian Crowley MEPIreland South

Contact Details - European Parliament

Fianna Fáil National Party Trustees


Current Ard Chomhairle

Current Ard Chomhairle

UachtaránMicheál Martin TD

Vice PresidentsArthur Griffin Cllr. Lisa Chambers Éamon Ó Cuív TD Kathryn Byrne Timmy Dooley TD

Honorary Secretaries Dara Calleary TD Margaret Conlon

Honorary TreasurersHugh Dolan Niall Collins TD

Committee of 20 Brig Ryan Claudia Kennedy Cllr. James Lawless Cllr. Mary Hoade Cllr. Niall Kelleher Emer O’Donovan Eoin Muldoon Garrett Greene Gillian Coughlan Henry Cleary, Jnr Hugh Conaghan John Kirwan Laura Reid Leonie O’Connell Lorraine Clifford Marguerite Fitzpatrick Michael Smyth

Constituency DelegatesBridget Manton Chris Wall Ciaran O’Loughlin

Cllr. Clifford Kelly Cllr. Frank O’Flynn Cllr. Joe Carroll Cllr. Pat Kennedy Cllr. Sinead Guckian Danny O’Connell Danny Reilly Deirdre Doherty Ryan Dermot Walsh Emer Brennan Eoin Scully Frank Begley Frank Corcoran Gearoid Lohan Gerry Bridget Gerry O’Connor Gerry Reidy Henry Arrowsmith Jimmy Flannery Joe Murphy John Hannan Kevin Fitzgerald Leonard Ryan Lorcan Allen Luke Martin Mary Corbett Mary Devine O’Callaghan Mary McKenna Mary Minchin Michael Lane Michael Naughton Michael Thompson Niall McEneaney Noel Ahern Rory Scanlan Seánaí Kiely Tom Holden Tom McCarthy

Tony Kelly Tony McCormack Vinny McCormack

Parliamentary Party RepresentativesMichael Moynihan T.D. Robert Troy T.D. Seán O’ Fearghail T.D. Senator Marc MacSharry Senator Mary White Senator Ned O’Sullivan Senator Paschal Mooney Senator Terry Leyden

Councillors Forum Representatives Cllr. Gerry Horkan Cllr. Kenneth O’Flynn Cllr. Niamh Smyth Cllr. Shane Cassells

Ógra RepresentativesBarry Gillen Eoin Neylon Ian Woods Jessica Ní Mhaoláin Mark Holt

Co-OptionsCllr. Kate Feeney Donnacha Maguire Kevin Burke Kevin Byrne Michael Freeman Stephanie Murphy Penn

Honorary Life MembersDavid Andrews Gerard Collins

Bhailiumuid i lár mBaile Atha Cliath don an 76u Ard Fheis. As a party we can reflect on a year of progress. However, there is much still to be done. In 2014, we became the biggest party in local government. We continued to progress a focused and realistic policy agenda and commenced preparations for the forthcoming general election.

We have continued our solution-based approach to opposition. We have offered solution after solution to problem after problem; however, this government refuses to listen and continues to preside over rampant inequality, regional economic disparities and a head in the sand approach to people who are In serious financial difficulty.

Fairness and ambition for Ireland and for her people have been, and will be, at the heart of our politics.

75ú Ard Fheis

The Ard Fheis of 2014 held in Killarney was a hugely successful occasion with over 3,000 people in attendance, excellent debates on issues such as water charges, finance, local government and enterprise. It was an excellent launching pad for the Local & European election campaigns.

Local Elections

The 23rd of May 2014 was a key date for Fianna Fáil.

We secured 25.4% of first preferences and 267 Fianna Fáil councillors were elected, making us the largest party in local government across the country. We congratulate all those elected and commend them on their work to date. We commiserate with those who were

unsuccessful and thank them for their effort on behalf of the party.

Our councillors across the country have worked hard since then to bring equality and services to their communities.

We thank you, our party members, for their commitment to the campaign.

European Elections

Whilst we secured 22% the seat return was very disappointing.

Comhghairdeas go Brian Crowley on his phenomenal result in Ireland South, securing his 5th term in the European Parliament. We thank Pat the Cope Gallagher for his outstanding service to country and party as a member of the European Parliament and we also thank, Senator Thomas Byrne, Mary Fitzpatrick and Kieran Hartley for their commitment to their respective campaigns.

It is important that the lessons of this campaign are learnt and that early preparations for the 2019 campaign get underway.

Bye-Elections

During 2014, the party fought 4 bye-elections: Dublin West, Longford Westmeath, Dublin South West & Roscommon South Leitrim.

Whilst it is frustrating that we didn’t win any of them, strong foundations have been laid for the next general election in all these constituencies and lessons have been learnt from the campaigns which can be used in future campaigns.

We will vigorously contest the Carlow Kilkenny bye-election on May 22nd next.

Honorary Secretaries’ ReportDara Calleary TD and Margaret Conlon, Joint Honorary Secretaries

www.fiannafail.ie


Honorary Secretaries’ Report

Our candidate, Bobby Aylward, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for public service to the table. We ask all party members to make whatever contribution you can to the campaign.

General Election Preparations

A general election will be fought over the next 12 months and our preparations are well underway. A National Constituencies Committee, under the chairmanship of Michael Moynihan TD, has begun its work. Our first selection convention took place in Limerick County in December and the selection phase of the campaign will conclude before the summer.

Preparations of our election manifesto are well underway. It will be one that addresses the problems faced by people in their lives, one which is ambitious for Ireland. A series of policy meetings have been held at CDC level across the country and the parliamentary party has held a number of one day meetings focusing on specific policy areas. We have made a number of additional appointments to our press and research teams to assist the process.

This campaign is crucial for the party. It is important that our work at constituency level gets underway without delay-a campaign can no longer be won in just three weeks.

The Markievicz Commission

Led by Cathaoirleach, Professor Yvonne Galligan, the Markievicz Commission has made a series of recommendations aimed at increasing the participation of women in the party and at increasing the number of female candidates for the next General Election and for the 2019 Local & European elections.

The first of these recommendations, a “boot camp” for potential candidates was held in

March 2015, with a very strong attendance from across the country. Further initiatives will be taken in the coming weeks and months to further the recommendations.

The report’s findings contain challenges for all party members. A true republican party should not be afraid to embrace these challenges, thus ensuring a continuous renewal of the traits of equality and courage that Constance Markievicz stood for.

Ógra Fianna Fáil

Ogra have had a very successful 12 months, topped off by an excellent National Youth Conference held in Clane Co Kildare in November. Eoin Ó Nialláin from Clare was elected as Cathaoirleach of Ogra, succeeding Cllr Kate Feeney. Ogra had a very successful recruitment campaign in the autumn and played a key role in all of our election campaigns during 2014.

Marriage Equality Referendum

Niall Collins TD will lead our campaign to secure a YES vote in the Marriage Equality referendum on May 22nd next. Niall has hosted a series of public meetings across the country already and will continue to do so in the run up to polling day. We encourage all party units to campaign for Equality-a fundamentally republican aspiration.

Leaders Activities

Our leader Micheál Martin has continued to give an outstanding commitment to the job and to the party. He has continued his strong Dáil performances, media appearances and has commenced the general election series of constituency tours. We thank him, his wife Mary and their family for his commitment and dedication to the job.

1916 Commemorations

Ta Coiste Comoradh bunaithe faoi Leas Uachtarán Eamon O’Cuiv TD to prepare the party’s program of events for the 1916 centenary next year. Each unit of the organisation has been written to inviting them to organise local commemorations and contribute to the national program. The formal launch of the year took place on March 21st at an excellent event in the Royal College of Surgeons.

Fianna Fáil Administration

Ours staff at Party HQ in Mount Street and at Leinster House continue to serve the party selflessly, despite continuing resource constraints.

Buiochas le Seán Dorgan and all the staff at both locations and across the country for their work.

There have been a number of changes at Leinster House. Eoin Weldon has left the Press Office to pursue other opportunities; we thank him for his service and wish him well. Lisa Dee Collery & Greg Moroney have joined as press officers whilst Martin Flanagan has joined as our first full time social media officer. We have enhanced our research team and welcome Diarmuid Lynch & Dr. Mark Canavan.

Obituaries

2014 was again a difficult year for the Fianna Fáil family as we bade farewell to a number of stalwarts. We extend our deepest sympathies to the families of all party members who passed away and we thank them for supporting their loved ones in the service of our party. Ar dheis de go raibh h-anam.

We think in particular of our former leader, iar Thaoiseach Albert Reynolds TD, Iar aire

& TD Joe Walsh, Iar TD Tony Herbert, Joe Dowling & Denis Lyons, Serving Councilor Willie Callaghan Kildare & Cathaoirleach an Mayo CDC Seán Staunton.

Conclusion

2014 was a busy year and a year of progress, particularly at local level. There is a tendency amongst some to dismiss that progress but we know that it was hard won and is a result of your hard work. The scale of the renewal challenge is still enormous but we must continue with it and face in to the general election with confidence, with belief in the republican aspirations of our party and taking inspiration from the courage of the men and women who stood up for a republican Ireland in 2016. Beir bua agus beannacht agus Ar Aghaidh le Fianna Fáil.

Honorary Secretaries’ Report cont.

www.fiannafail.ie

We are pleased to present our Honorary Treasurers’ Report to delegates at this Ard Fheis.

As delegates will know, election years always result in increased expenditure for the Party in that year and 2014 has been no different.

The Party’s focus in terms of our finances has already shifted to putting a substantial budget in place to fight the upcoming General Election and we have a plan agreed to ensure that all our candidates across the country will have significant support in place to run energetic campaigns in each constituency.

The Party have also placed a number of our properties across the country on the market or in some instances, have already completed these sales.

Our gross Fundraising income in 2014 was just below €1 Million at €960,680. We have completely changed the profile of our donor base which now places a complete emphasis on small contributions over our wide National Membership and Supporter base and we have managed to bring the overall cost base of the Party under control despite continued cuts in the Party’s funding,

The details of our fundraising income are provided in this Clar. The individual categories of our fundraising income are set out clearly, the three clear pillars of our funding now comprise our National Superdraw, the Party’s Membership fee income and the National Collection.

The Party in 2014 printed over eight million pieces of literature for our Local Election candidates across the country which have been heavily subsidised and the investment by the Party in a specialised printing press

at Party Headquarters is proving to be an invaluable asset to the Party. It is our expectation that a similar investment will be made in local literature for our General Election candidates.

Fundraising Activities

We have been only able to achieve this investment in our candidates across the country through your continued support. Every cent raised through fundraising activities is ring-fenced for the purposes of campaigning and electioneering. We thank you sincerely for your support and we ask that you continue to contribute to the renewal of our Party.

The Party’s main fundraising activities are the National Collection and the National Super Draw. We set out the returns, by constituency, for both the National Super Draw and the National Collection in the pages that follow. The Party raised more than €400,000 in 2014 through the National Super Draw. The top performing CDC was Limerick County CDC, returning more than €24,000. Particular credit is owing to the organisation in Limerick County CDC and Treasurer, Niall Collins T.D. Limerick was closely followed by Wexford CDC and Cork South Central CDC which also broke the €20,000 mark. These CDCs are a great example of what can be achieved. If every CDC achieved what Limerick and Wexford did, the Party would raise nearly €1 million from the Super Draw every year.

In 2014, the National Collection produced a total turnover of €169,508 and remains an important fundraiser for the Party. Again, returns by CDC are presented below. With a month to go to a major national collection weekend, we are calling on all members to make a special effort to

www.fiannafail.ie

Joint Honorary Treasurers’ ReportNiall Collins TD and Hugh Dolan, Joint Honorary Treasurers


Honorary Treasurers’ Report

ensure that the national collection is taken up at every church gate in every CDC. The National Collection is not only an important fundraiser for Fianna Fáil; it’s also an opportunity for Fianna Fáil to be active in the community.

We are particularly pleased that the Party’s fundraising model has changed significantly in recent years. In 2014, approximately 90% of all contributions came from donors who gave us €100 or less. As a Party, our focus on fundraising has moved away from corporate donations and we are committed to raising the necessary resources through smaller contributions from our members and supporters.

We are firmly committed to continuing to build on the successes of recent years in fundraising. The National Collection and National Super Draw are vitally important to achieving this. We ask you to do what you can to help us increase the returns for both the National Collection and National Draw in 2015.

Conclusion

Fundraising is always challenging. This is particularly so in these challenging times. We want to extend our sincere thanks to every member and supporter who give their time and money to raise funds for Fianna Fáil. If you are in a position to organise or host a fundraising event in your area, please make contact with ourselves or Annie Keegan or Darragh McShea in Fianna Fáil Headquarters. We appeal to you to continue to make an effort to ensure that Fianna Fáil has the resources and capacity to mount campaigns and fight elections over the coming years. We can only do this with your help.

Thank you for everything you continue to do for Fianna Fáil.

€

National Superdraw (43%) 413,300

National Membership (33%) 318,220

National Collection (17%) 169,508

Cáirde Fáíl (4%) 40,900

Direct Contributions & Fundraising Events (2%) 23,469

Registration Fees (1%) 5,870

Total 971,267

Election & Fundraising Income 2014

www.fiannafail.ie

CDC 2014

Limerick County 24,050Wexford 22,250Cork SC 21,150Roscommon 16,250Galway West 15,050Galway East 15,000Louth 13,550Meath East 12,550Westmeath 12,450Donegal 12,150Kerry 12,150Cork NW 12,050Mayo 11,650Clare 11,450Tipperary 10,250Offaly 10,050Cavan 10,000Dublin Fingal 9,700Longford 9,450Laois 9,250Meath West 8,150Sligo 8,150Dublin SC 8,150Dublin SW 7,950Dublin West 7,950Waterford 7,950Dublin Bay North 7,250Cork East 7,250Cork SW 7,150Kildare South 6,950Monaghan 6,450Wicklow 6,250Kildare North 5,750Leitrim 5,650Cork NC 5,650Dublin Bay South 5,350Kilkenny 5,050Dun Laoghaire 5,050Dublin Rathdown 5,050Dublin Mid West 5,000Limerick City 4,350Carlow 2,650Dublin NW 2,050Dublin Central 1,650

Superdraw Totals 2014

Mayo

Donegal

Galway East

Galway West

Cavan

Leitrim

Roscommon/Galway E.

Sligo

Monaghan

Dublin Bay North

Dublin Bay South

Dublin Central

Dublin Fingal

Dublin Mid West

Dublin North West

Dublin Rathdown

Dublin South Central

Dublin South West

Dublin West

Dun Laoghaire

Kilkenny

Kildare South

Carlow

Laois

Louth

Offaly

Wexford

Wicklow

Meath West

Westmeath

Longford

Kildare North

Meath East

Cork North Central

Cork South Central

Cork East

Cork North West

Cork South West

Kerry

Limerick

Limerick City

Tipperary

Clare

Waterford

10,604.39

3,258.18

3,793.60

3,716.97

8,987.76

4,080.55

5,419.41

598.23

4,399.17

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

0.00

6,129.92

200.00

460.00

4,811.27

2,110.73

8,192.98

5,480.27

30.00

3,076.90

1,860.89

5,035.85

520.00

3,161.79

1,030.50

917.00

4,014.37

9,446.67

1,516.00

14,276.36

19,077.94

539.70

15,384.88

15,255.20

2,120.91

€ €

National Collection Constituency Totals 2014

Total €169,508.39

Total € 413,300

Superdraw Total 2014


Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis

an Ireland for all

A R D F H E I S E L E C T I O N S

www.fiannafail.ie

Time for Voting: Polling will commence at 10:00am and will close at 3:00pm on Saturday 25th April 2015. Please note that members wishing to vote will have to be within the voting registration area not later than 3:00pm.

Voting by PRSTV: Voting delegates shall vote in order of their preference in accordance with the rules of the PR single transferable vote system (Electoral Act 1992). Delegates may vote for any number of candidates by placing their preference vote 1,2,3,4 etc in the boxes provided opposite the names of the candidates who are listed in alphabetical order.

A ballot paper is valid as long as a first preference is recorded.

To enter the voting registration area all voting delegates must produce a form of identity which includes a photograph (ie driver’s licence, passport, Garda ID), and their delegate pass.

Voting Security: No other ID will be acceptable for entry into the voting area.A ballot paper will only be issued to a delegate in possession of a delegate pass, and valid photo ID.

Each delegate ticket will be specific to that particular delegate and only that person will be allowed to use this ticket.

Only fully subscribed VOTF members of the Party listed on the Fianna Fáil Headquarters database will be eligible to vote.

Delegates may not re-enter the registration area or voting area under any circumstances.

Ballot Papers: Each voting delegate shall be given four (4) ballot papers. One shall be for the ‘Fianna Fáil Vice President’ positions, with the other three used for electing the ‘Committee of Fifteen’ positions.

Voting Arrangements For the Attention of Voting Members and Candidates.


Ard Fheis Elections

Honorary Secretary Election

Dara Calleary TD, and Margaret Conlon, as the only members of the Party seeking election, are deemed automatically elected.

Honorary Treasurer Election

Niall Collins TD, and Mary Devine O’Callaghan, as the only members of the Party seeking election, are deemed automatically elected.

www.fiannafail.ie

V I C E P R E S I D E N T


As outgoing Vice President and a member of the Ard Comhairle, I am seeking your Number 1 vote for re-election as Vice President of Fianna Fáil.

I am a dedicated grass-roots member of the party who has never held, nor seeks to hold public office. I believe in honesty, transparency and holding true to our party values. My commitment is to Fianna Fáil and to you, the members, to continue the work of rebuilding this great party of ours.

I have given considerable time and energy to the work of the Ard Comhairle. I was initially elected as an Ógra representative, and served as National Vice Chair when Micheál Martin was Ógra’s National Chairman. Subsequently, I was elected a member of the Committee of 15 and later the Committee of 20. In 2012, I was proud to be elected Vice President, representing the grass-roots.

I would greatly appreciate your Number One vote or highest possible preference.

Kathryn ByrneDublin Bay South

I am a lifelong Fianna Fáil Member who has worked for the organisation at local and national level in many electoral campaigns. I believe that I have an excellent working knowledge of the organisation throughout the country as a result.

I wish to bring my experience and drive to help win the most seats at the next General Election. I am committed to giving the necessary time and effort to help prepare for and execute a positive and impactful general election campaign that will liaise with and energize the members at grassroots level and help restore our political fortunes with the Irish electorate.

I have a proud record of achievements in representative politics, having served as a Fianna Fáil Deputy, Senator and Councillor, and was privileged to be appointed Leader of the Senate for two Parliamentary terms (‘97-’02 and ‘07-’11) by two Taoisigh.

It would be an honour to be elected as a Vice President of Fianna Fáil.

Donie CassidyMeath West


Vice President

If re-elected as one of your Vice Presidents, I will ensure that the Front bench and Parliamentary Party develop policies that are in tune with the views and ideals of the Fianna Fáil members throughout the country. Fianna Fáil’s strength is and always has been its members.

I played an active role in Ógra and I am conscious of the need to attract young people to the party to work side by side with its experienced members and supporters. If re-elected Vice President of the Party I will continue to work to ensure this is a key priority.

Having served the party at every level with the constituency before being elected to the Dáil I know the value of a strong and active Fianna Fáil membership. I am committed to working with all members to ensure the party reconnects with communities, reaffirms it’s core principles of equality and solidarity, and grows in strength and number in the years ahead.

Timmy DooleyClare

Cllr Lisa Chambers is a 28-year-old Barrister from Mayo and was elected for the first time to Mayo County Council last May. She was Fianna Fáil’s youngest candidate in the 2011 General Election and ran along side Dara Calleary TD.

Lisa has been Vice President of Fianna Fáil for the last three years and has chaired the European Affairs sub-committee of the Ard Chomhairle. She has done considerable work with the European Affairs sub-committee over the past three years and wishes to continue with this work if re-elected as Vice President.

Aside from politics Lisa is an active member of the Reserve Defence Forces for the last thirteen years and is a Commissioned Officer in the Infantry. She believes her time and training with the Reserve has given her valuable experience, which can benefit the Party. She is committed to advocating on behalf of grassroots members at National Executive level.

Cllr. Lisa ChambersMayo

Arthur Griffin is Vice-President of Fianna Fáil since Árd Fheis 2013. Arthur (29) is Chairperson of Tipperary CDC since its formation, prior to that he was the youngest CDC chair in the country when elected to chair the North Tipp CDC in 2011.

Internally to the party, Arthur has assisted CDCs & CCs with strategy, public relations and restructuring. He has worked with party administrators to improve events & recruitment. Northern members will benefit from Arthur’s proposal to include a permanent delegate from the North on the Árd Comhairle.

Externally, Arthur represented the party on radio and newspaper. He has worked to improve cross-community relations by facilitating talks between FF and UUP councillors.

“I have given everything to the role. I believe I have brought a different approach to the position. We need fresh ideas. I seek to represent the passion of my generation; and I respectfully seek the members’ support at this Árd Fheis,” he says.

Arthur GriffinTipperary

www.fiannafail.ie

Member of the Oireachtas since 1989

I am standing in this election to continue to promote the Fianna Fáil vision as outlined in the aims of the party. This includes a re-affirmation of our commitment to a peaceful united Ireland, the maintenance of the independence of our country in a European Union of Nation States, the development of our country economically for the betterment of all our people and the development of our native culture and language

I am committed to strengthening the role of the membership, the Cumainn and the CDCs in the party, including making the Ardfheis more interactive for members and a real forum for party debate. I also support re-establishing the primacy of the local organisations in candidate selection and other local party matters.

In these years when we celebrate the Easter Rising it is important that we once again revitalise our organisation to achieve the high ideals of the Proclamation of 1916

Ball den Oireachtas ó 1989

Tá mé ag seasamh san toghchán seo chun leanacht liom ag cur fís Fhianna Fáil chun cinn mar atá leagtha amach in aidhmeanna an pháirtí. Mar chuid de seo tá athdhearbhú dár dtiomántas d’ Éirinn aontaithe síochánta, cosaint flaitheas na tíre seo in Aontas Eorpach de Stáit Ceannasacha, forbairt na tíre go heacnamúil ar mhaithe leis an bpobal uilig agus forbairt ár gcultúr agus teanga dúchasach.

Creidim go mba cheart áit na mball, na gCumann agus na gComhairlí Dáil Cheantar san eagraíocht a láidriú. Ba cheart go mbeadh deis i bhfad níos fearr ag na baill inchur a bheith acu san Ardfheis agus ba cheart go mbeadh an Ardfheis ina foram ceart díospóireachta do na baill. Ba cheart freisin go mbeadh ceannasaíocht ag an eagraíochta go háitiúil i roghnú iarrthóirí agus i ngnóthaí eile áitiúla an pháirtí.

Sna blianta seo nuair atá muid ag déanamh comóradh agus ceiliúradh ar Éirí amach na Cásca tá sé tábhachtach go ndéanfadh muid athbheochan ar Fhianna Fáil chun go mbainfear amach ard idéil Fhorógra na Cásca.

Éamon Ó CuivGalway West

Gerry O’Connor has served Fianna Fáil as its Constituency Organiser and Director-of-Elections since 2004. The party can point to some successes during that time; not least the recent election of five Fianna Fáil candidates in the eight seat Tubbercurry-Ballymote Municipal district: the best result of the 2014 local elections.

By accepting the nominations to contest the position of Vice President, Gerry O’Connor has decided to continue to offer his services to the party in an expanded role where he would concentrate on “planning and communications”.

An tUas Ó Conchubhair has gained vast administrative experience in other organisations and is currently Sligo GAA County Secretary as well as a member of the secretariat of the Public Participation Network.

While Fianna Fail has undergone many welcome organisational changes the Ard Chomhairle member believes that more are needed. Gerry O’Connor is the Director of the Interface Financial Group-O’Connor providing cash-flow solutions to SMEs.

Gerry O’ConnorSligo


Vice President

We are Fianna Fáil – we are proud political activists and dedicated community campaigners. We are at our best when our members instigate political movements, inspire party policy and earn votes on local doorsteps to deliver election success.

I want to represent, support and encourage our members as a Grassroots Vice-President to optimize the hard work of our people.

As your Vice-President my term would focus on: • Energizing a grassroots ‘Members on the Move’ campaign for the General Election. • Lobbying for recruitment and marketing initiatives in which the entire electorate can relate to our diverse party. • Fighting for key platforms for our members to devise and raise awareness of party policy.

I’m a Retail HR Advisor, a new Wife, a first-time Mammy, a campaigner for better Dementia care, an activist for Equality in Politics and a support to anyone wanting to join or run for our party. I would be honoured to be elected as your Vice-President.

Laura ReidDublin North West

I would be thrilled if I succeeded in being selected as Vice President of Fianna Fáil.

As a businesswoman who co-founded and developed Lir Chocolates with Connie Doody for twenty years, I will never forget the impact getting a job has on a young person.

My experience as a businesswoman has led to my position as Rapporteur for the Joint Committee on Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in the compilation of a report on Women Entrepreneurship. We are not using our full potential if we are only using half the brains of our population.

I want women to believe they can do anything a man can do. It is imperative that more women get into politics at every age as diversity is so important to society.

I’m not solely passionate about gender diversity. I feel strongly about ending compulsory retirement at age 65. The day a person doesn’t have to get up to go to a job is the day they stop wanting to get up altogether.

If selected, these are the issues I will be passionately driving forward.

Mary WhiteDublin Rathdown

www.fiannafail.ie


C O M M I T T E E O F 1 5M A L E PA N E L ( 7 P O S I T I O N S )

I have been active for many years within Fianna Fáil and have worked hard in my constituency of Dublin Bay North, which I currently serve as treasurer. Since the election of 2011, I have been an ever present for Fianna Fáil both locally and nationally, I have committed myself to campaigns nationwide.

I believe in our grass roots membership, I believe that we are what makes this great party tick. I want to take your concerns to the National Executive. I seek to continue my work for Fianna Fáil as a grassroots member and bring the same energy and commitment to the Fianna Fáil Ard Chomhairle if elected at this Ard Fheis. I ask you to please consider me for No.1 Vote on 24/25th April.

Alan BrackenDublin Bay North

Dear Delegate I am a first time candidate to contest this election. Matched with a real understanding of how our party and standing presently and the way forward I am fully committed to the changes that lie ahead.

I have the vision energy experience and drive to ensure the growth of our party. I am a strong voice ready to represent you the delegate. A committee member to raise your concerns, through open communications.

As we look forward to 1916 celebrations I applaud the mature and reflective stance our party has taken. Please vote in your highest personal order.

David ByrneDublin Fingal

Dr Michael Clark, a graduate of UCD and TCD, is a Mathematics and Science teacher in Belvedere College SJ and also lectures in Statistics at American College Dublin.

Michael joined the UCD Kevin Barry Cumann in 1999 and is a now Cathaoirleach of the Seán Lemass Cumann, Deansgrange. He served three terms as CDC Secretary and went on to serve four years as Cathaoirleach of Dún Laoghaire CDC. Michael is a Graduate Representative of the UCD Governing Authority and is an active member of the Rathmines & Rathgar Musical Society.

If elected, Michael will be a strong voice for the grassroots at the Árd Chomhairle.Michael Clark

Dún Laoghaire


Committee of 15

H.E is a vibrant and dynamic member of the Party and a former member of the Ogra National Youth Committee. He comes from a strong FF background and his cousin was the late Michael O’ Cleirigh, a TD for Mayo.

His key priorities if elected include: Continue the renewal agenda within the organisation; Create a more formal role for members in policy formulation and ideas generation; Ensure greater connectivity and engagement between the members and the executive of the party.

H.E is steeped in the GAA family and is also closely connected with Cork GAA through his cousins John Cleary and Niall Cahalane of Castlehaven.

H.E ClearyMayo

As Cill Mhantáin ó dhúchas, tá Malachaí gníomhach i bhFianna Fáil ó 1997 i leith. He joined Cumann Theobald Wolfe Tone at Trinity College, Dublin and served as Cathaoirleach. He is now CDC Cathaoirleach for Wicklow. Having trained and worked as a chef, Malachaí returned to study and is a Barrister-at-Law who appreciates the struggles faced by families engaged in small and medium sized businesses. Active in the community he serves as a Director and Vice President of his local Credit Union and represents it nationally. Malachaí serves on the Board of the Boxing Union of Ireland and is a member of the 1916-21 Club. Proud of our past, he asks can we be confident of our future?

Malachaí DuddyWicklow

I’m 26, and a Trainee Solicitor from Thurles, Tipperary, where I grew up in my family convenience store and served as a Councillor. Community is my passion including Order of Malta, Lions, Chamber, and others. Previous member of AC as Ógra Policy Director. Cathaoirleach of Tipperary Ógra, and Officer at all local levels.

Amongst my priorities if elected are: to improve transparency & communications, provide strong representation, protect 16 y/o membership age, establish a grassroots-driven policy development protocol, equality for Northern units, and more representation for members abroad. Trust my experience, skills, and ideas, please Vote 1 or next highest preference.

Gerard FogartyTipperary

A chairde. My name is Sam Geoghegan. I’m 24 and am a supervisor of a busy Dublin bar. I’ve been actively involved with Fianna Fáil since my time in UCD where I obtained a degree in Economics and Politics. I was elected the Students’ Union Education Officer in 2011 and sat on UCD Governing Authority.

My promise to you delegates is that if elected, I’ll be a constant voice for increased transparency, progressive policies and membership engagement.

I would humbly ask for your number one vote or next highest preference on Saturday, April 25th. I look forward to meeting you at the RDS. Is mise le meas, Sam

Sam GeogheganDún Laoghaire

www.fiannafail.ie

Clare’s Garrett Greene has been active in Fianna Fáil since age 15. His father, Raymond Greene, is a life-long activist and former Councillor. A founder-member of Con Colbert Ógra (U.L.) in the 1990s, he has helped to revive electoral performance in Ennis and the Annual DeValera Commemoration in Clare. He is a member of Coiste 1916 under the Chairmanship of Éamon Ó’Cuiv TD.

A University Law Tutor and trainee Barrister, his policy interests are Justice, Education, Employment. He has worked to bring particular focus to the preservation of rural Post-Offices and services and Regional Development. He is getting married to Niamh Desmond this June.

Garrett GreeneClare

John, from Kilmuckridge, Co. Wexford is seeking re-election to the National Executive. He has served in the party’s organisation both at Cumann and at Executive levels culminating in his election to the Ard Comhairle. John will lead the way in ensuring that the National Executive will be accountable to the grass roots.

John is a man of many interests; a business man who has promoted sustainable employment and is currently on the National Council of the Irish Self Catering Federation; he and his family are steeped in the GAA tradition and John, through his company, sponsored a very successful Wexford Secondary Schools hurling competition for over twenty years.

John KirwanWexford

David Lohan is a native of Galway. Today he lives in Cork. He is Secretary of the Comhairle Dáil Ceantair (CDC) for Fianna Fáil in Cork South Central.

He is an engineer by profession experienced in social media, communications technologies and organisational development. In 2012 he completed a Masters in Politics at UCC and was winner of the university’s Diarmuid Whelan Memorial Cup.

He has worked as an author and researcher. Presently, he is writing his second book on the issue of the modern global slave trade, otherwise known as human trafficking. David Lohan

Cork South Central

Born and reared in Kildare, DJ comes from a racing family. He attended college at Carlow RTC where he was President of the Student Union. In a Wheelchair since a traffic accident in 1997, DJ is a computer programmer, specialising in electoral analysis/mapping and has done work for party units and individual members.

DJ - a member of Naas Cumann and CC officer boards – supports wider implementation of OMOV to ensure members have the fullest practical say in Candidate Selection and Direction of the Party. It’s for this reason he is seeking your support to – with others – defend members’ interests.D.J. Moore

Kildare North


Committee of 15

I am a 26-year-old barrister from Cork North West who has been an active member in Cork, Munster and Dublin since 2007. I am the son of a primary school teacher and a businessman who is also a part-time farmer and am the first person in my family to get involved in politics.

I am running on a platform of transparency, accountability and internal party democracy. If elected, I will support the continued reform of our party’s policy formation, candidate selection, finances and internal organisation. In particular, I will promote initiatives which bring policy formation closer to the individual member.Gearóid Murphy

Cork North West

Eoin is seeking re-election to the National Executive having been first elected in 2013. From Dunboyne in Co. Meath, he is the only candidate on the Male Panel from Meath, Louth or Westmeath. Eoin is also the founding Chairman of the Fianna Fáil Futures Group.

Eoin has graduated from NUI Maynooth and University College Cork and currently works as the Sales Manager in his family business. Eoin is committed to ensuring that Fianna Fáil has a strong policy platform in the run in to the next general election. He believes that it is of crucial importance to maintain Fianna Fáil as the true Republican Party in the state as we approach the 1916 centenary celebration.

Eoin MuldoonMeath East

Michael is a secondary school teacher Co-ordinating a School Completion Programme and hails from Ballybay in Co. Monaghan. Coming from a family with strong roots in Fianna Fail, his uncle Dr. Rory O’Hanlon is a former TD. Michael is an outgoing member of the Committee of 20.

Michael has been President of the Students’ Union at University College Cork, a member of the Governing Body there and a Fianna Fail representative on the National Youth Council of Ireland. He is a member of the Governing Authority at Maynooth University. Michael was a Town Councillor in Ballybay and previously stood for Fianna Fail in the Mulhuddart electoral area of West Dublin and Ballybay / Clones electoral area. “Please cast your No 1 or highest possible vote for me”

Michael SmythMonaghan

www.fiannafail.ie


C O M M I T T E E O F 1 5F E M A L E PA N E L ( 7 P O S I T I O N S )

Róisín is from Donegal and is currently studying Law in Trinity College Dublin. She joined the party at 16 and has been an active member in the P.L. O’Doherty Cumann, Buncrana, Donegal Ógra and the Wolfe Tone Cumann in Trinity.

Róisín sees the membership of Fianna Fáil as the greatest asset the organisation has. In order for Fianna Fáil to succeed they must be respected and further empowered. Róisín also seeks your support to help build a Fianna Fáil that is unafraid and passionate to advance the interests of the nation.

Róisín BradleyDonegal

Lorraine’s membership of the party stretches back to her teens having joined her local cumann in Kilmeaden, Co. Waterford when she was 15 years old. She went on to join the legendary Donagh O’Malley Cumann while she was studying in UCC.

Lorraine has served at all levels of the party, was a candidate in last year’s local elections and narrowly missed out on a seat. She regularly articulates the party’s position in the local and national media. She is passionate and committed. Is cainteoir Gaeilge í freisin. Lorraine lives with her husband and daughter, Kitty, in north Dublin. Lorraine would be very grateful for your support this weekend. Bain sult as an deirdedh seachtaine. Ar aghaidh le Fhianna Fáil!

Lorraine CliffordDublin Fingal

My name is Mary Byrne, from Drogheda. A solicitor by profession, I am deeply involved with the Fianna Fail party in Dublin Bay South, having previously served as a co-treasurer in the Dublin Bay South CDC. I am also very active in Meath East and in the Drogheda area where I partake in all levels of activity, including leafleting, canvassing and fundraising.

At last year’s Ard Fheis I was immensely proud to receive an award for my work on the national draw, having achieved the 2nd highest number of ticket sales nationally. I have also ran a number of successful fundraisers on behalf of the Dublin Bay South CDC.

Mary ByrneDublin Bay South


Committee of 15

Jennifer is a 28 year old barrister from Cabinteely in Dublin with family roots in Cork and Sligo. Jennifer worked tirelessly with her cumann for the Local Elections and was elected to the Council as a first time candidate. Jennifer is very active in her local community as a member of the St Vincent de Paul and Killiney Lions Club as well as volunteering with the Free Legal Advice Centres and Meals on Wheels. Jennifer believes that her day to day experience with these organisations can be of great benefit to our party as we continue to rebuild and renew. Further she would like to advocate for the grassroot members on building the organisation and developing policies that will bring our party back to the forefront in Irish politics.

Jennifer CuffeDún Laoghaire

Audrey hails from Rush & is a consultant to Irish Guest Houses & B&Bs. She previously worked in Seanad Eireann, and in the Fianna Fáil Press & Research Office working on various elections & referenda campaigns from 2001 to 2004.

A member of the London Cumann since 2012, 2014/15 Cathoirleach, and is now Secretary, Audrey has built links with the Liberal Democrats, sister-party in ALDE, and founded the Cara Programme with Fianna Fáil HQ aiming to help members in London by offering a community of liked-minded people to meet up with and maintain their strong links with Fianna Fáil when they first arrive. Audrey travels home regularly to attend Party events.

Audrey EagerLondon/Dublin Fingal

I am a 29 year old County Councillor for Fianna Fáil on Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, having won a seat as a first time candidate last May. I have previously served as Uachtaráin Ógra Fianna Fáil and currently work as a Tax Manager in an accountancy firm in Dublin.

I believe that as a membership, we deserve a stronger more robust Ard Chomhairle. In recent years we have seen the Ard Chomhairle become a ‘rubber stamping’ body – this needs to stop! To achieve this we need Ard Chomairle members who have strength and leadership skills. During my term as Uachtaráin Ógra and since being elected as a County Councillor I have shown that I have these skills.

Kate FeeneyDún Laoghaire

First elected to the Ard Chomhairle in 2012, Gillian Coughlan has been a vocal representative of the members of Fianna Fáil, country wide. A former Town Councillor and Mayor of Bandon, her home town in County Cork, she is keenly aware of the erosion of legitimacy in government and the undermining of the fundamental democratic tenets of this Republic. For Gillian, Fianna Fáil is a movement which represents many strands of Irish society but which has at it’s heart the principles of fairness and equality of opportunity.

Is ball den Coiste na Gaeilge í agus ta sé mar aidhm aici an Gaeilge a chur chun cinn I ngach gne den saol.

Gillian CoughlanCork South West

www.fiannafail.ie

Stephanie Murphy-Penn is a current member of the Ard Chomhairle, Sec of the Galway West CDC, Cumann Sec, and LEA Director of Elections.

Stephanie is hard working and approachable. Please Vote 1 or your highest preference.

@smurphypenn • 0858251555 • [email protected]

Stephanie Murphy PennGalway West

Claudia Kennedy, Ballybofey, Co Donegal a 32 year old secondary school teacher of English, Religion and SPHE in Finn Valley College. A former FF candidate in the Local Elections in the Stranorlar EA in May 2014. Claudia explained representing FF was an honour and I did so with great pride. It was a wonderful experience. I have learned so much about the challenges within society and the political system. From this experience I can add more to the AC.

I hope to continue working for you the members on the AC. My experience, determination and energy ensure strong representation on the AC. I want to help with the rebuilding, renewing and rejuvenation of our great Party FF.

Claudia KennedyDonegal

Born in Cavan and now living in Ballincollig, Cork, my family have always supported the party I have held officer positions in the constituency at various levels. I have also canvassed and campaigned on behalf of the party. I have considerable senior management experience in the health and education sectors and am currently managing a HR function in the private healthcare sector. I am also a certified and accredited Mediator.

If elected, I will commit to representing grassroots members ensuring that urban and rural Fianna Fail members have a strong voice at national level and assist the party in returning to government and increasing its vote at the next election.

Sheila MaguireCork North West

I am a graduate of European Studies and master’s graduate of Political Communications. I have been a member of Fianna Fáil for a number of years and commenced working for the party in 2011; I currently work as Deputy Troy’s Parliamentary Assistant. I believe I have gained a balanced view of the Irish political system through my education, work in Leinster House, constituency offices and through my experience of working on the local election campaigns.

I have just recently travelled through Asia and South America which has further broadened my mind both culturally and politically. I am a proud member of Fianna Fáil and I would be honoured to be elected to the Committee of 15.

Aideen GinnellWestmeath


Committee of 15

Since joining Fianna Fáil in my early teens, I have been active at every level of the organisation as an officer in Ógra, Cumann, Comhairle, and CDC. As a member of the C20, I have served as a member of the Organisation Sub-Committee where I have been instrumental in implementing OMOV, which empowers each member, ensuring that they have a major say in the future of the party.

My focus now is the forthcoming General Election. If elected, I will do everything in my power to ensure that Fianna Fail is once again a driving force in our democracy.

Vótáil Brig Ryan Uimhir 1!Brig Ryan

Cork South Central

I was honoured to be elected to the Committee of 20 at the last voting Ard Fheis and ask for your No 1 vote for the Committee of 15 based on my political work to date.

I have represented members at 100% of meetings over the last two year term of the Ard Chomhairle and have been involved in the European Affairs Committee and was appointed to the Markievicz Commission.

I ran as a candidate for the last local election and bring concerns from the doorstep to the forefront of meetings. I attend on average 3 party or community meetings weekly to represent members. It would be my privilege to represent you.

Laura ReidDublin North West

Is mise Bríd Ní Dholáin from Killeshandra Co Cavan. Tugadh le cursaí polaitíochta mé mar chaith mo athair blianta fada mar Tachta Tála, Seanadóir agus mar Chaitheoirleach an tSeanad agus ag deireadh a shaoil mar sheanadóir.

I have been serving the party as a hard working loyal and diligent activist from a young age. I believe that Fianna Fáil is facing an extremely challenging and changing times in Irish Politics. I am secretary of our local Killeshandra Cumann and secretary for the Belturbet Cavan Dáil Ceanntair. I am committed to working on behalf of the Fianna Fáil grassroots, putting the grassroots first and I will work tirelessly to ensure that your Voice is heard at the Ard Chomhairle.

Bríd Ní DholáinCavan

www.fiannafail.ie


C O M M I T T E E O F 1 5N O R T H E R N R E P R E S E N TAT I V E ( 1 P O S I T I O N )

I have been a member of Fianna Fáil living in Belfast for fifteen years, and a supporter since the victory of Jack Lynch in 1969.

I was the first member living in the six counties to be elected to an Ard comhairle for some time, serving between 2009 and 2012, a time of enormous reform for our Party including return of candidate selection to CC and CDC and internal reform.

I want to continue support for membership and further promote national development in the run into our contesting elections in the six counties, especially with our leadership.

Mark HughesDown

The northern position on the Ard Chomhairle is crucially important in fulfilling our commitment to contest six county elections in 2019. Fianna Fáil’s responsibilities in the north can no longer be fulfilled at a distance and direct participation is necessary

My main priorities are to establish a membership structure in the six counties along constituency lines and begin the formulation of relevant policy. I am currently Ógra’s Northern Organiser and Treasurer of the Wolfe Tone Cumann in Trinity College.

I hope to get a chance to talk to you over the weekend and hope you will consider me when voting.

Briege Mac OscarTyrone

John Ramsey lives in the Glens of Antrim with his wife Sharon, a native of Cork, and their six children. John has been actively involved in Fianna Fáil northern development since 2006, is a founder member of the Antrim Forum and is currently its Chairperson.

He is strident in the belief that extending the true Republican virtues of Fianna Fáil representation to all of Ireland is essential to the furthering of National Unity

Living and working in the north he has the time, energy and dedication to actively reflect and promote the needs of northern members in the Ard Chomhairle.

John RamseyAntrim


an Ireland for all

R E S O L U T I O N S


Ard-Fheis Standing Orders and Governing Procedures

Procedure: The ruling of the Cathaoirleach or the presiding Leas-Cathaoirleach on all matters of procedure is final.

Resolutions: Resolutions submitted by units and listed on the Clár may be moved by a delegate from that unit. Priority shall be given to a delegate from the unit and other delegates may be permitted to move or speak to a resolution.

Amendment to a Resolution: An amendment may be moved only if notice of the proposed amendment has been given in writing to the Cathaoirleach and it has been accepted as relevant. An amendment proposing a direct negative to a resolution may not be moved.

Decisions on Resolutions: Decisions will be made by a show of hands. In the event of the Cathaoirleach being unable to decide the outcome of any vote, a count will be made by tellers. Only voting delegates are eligible to be counted showing their official delegate tickets to the tellers.

Speakers on Resolutions: The proposer to a resolution is allowed two minutes to speak. Speakers to a resolution are allowed two minutes to speak.

Registration at “Speakers’ Corner”: A delegate registration desk will be available at all sessions to register speakers for resolutions. The Cathaoirleach will be given the full list of speakers by the registration desk officials. Delegates intending to speak must register well in advance of the appropriate session. Delegates registered to speak will be invited by the Cathaoirleach to come to the podium provided.

Suspension of Standing Orders: A notice of motion for the suspension of standing orders for a specific purpose must be signed by representatives of 10% of registered cumainn before the terms of the motion are submitted to the Cathaoirleach. The signature and designation of each representative will appear on the notice of motion. The Cathaoirleach will then inform the Ard-Fheis that the motion to suspend standing orders for the purpose mentioned will be put to the Ard-Fheis two hours later. The proposers should be present and ready to identify themselves when the motion is put.


Resolutions

Social Protection 1.That this Ard Fheis denounces the way this government is treating the elderly, the young, and the disabled.

Kevin Barry Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC

2.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to ensure that those who are self-employed can avail of the same rights as PSRI workers once stamps are paid.

Belclare Cumann, Galway East CDC

3.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to introduce Free Travel for all under 25’s who are unemployed.

Michael O’Hanrahan Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC

4.That this Ard Fheis commits to a major expansion of apprenticeship places to tackle the present and growing skills crisis.

Clann an Phiarsaigh Cumann, Dublin South West CDC

5.That this Ard Fheis calls for an increase in the living alone allowance of €5 per week.

Sean Moylan Kiskeam Cumann, Cork North West CDC

6.That this Ard Fheis calls for the ability to pay to be taken into consideration for the local property Tax and water tax.

Boleybeg Cumann, Galway West CDC

7.That this Ard Fheis commits to fighting for an increase of €2 a week to the fuel allowance for eligible recipients.


8.That this Ard Fheis endorses a 5% upward revision of the rent cap in Dublin, Cork and Galway to take immediate pressure off the rent supplement scheme.

Glasnevin North Cumann, Dublin North West CDC

9.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be more courses available for the long term unemployed particularly those with a lack of skills as these are most likely to be unemployed.

Sean Lemass Cumann, Wicklow CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Communications, Energy and Natural Resources10.That this Ard Fheis supports the abolition of the T.V. licence fee in light of the lack of balance in RTÉ and put in place a completely new funding arrangement.

Grange Cumann, Waterford CDC

11.That this Ard Fheis reaffirms Fianna Fáil’s commitment to prioritising the security of Irish energy supply, and the utilisation of our natural resources such as wind, wave, and peat-biomass co-fueling with a view to achieving Irish Energy Independence in accordance with the EU 2030 Framework for climate and energy.

Clonkeen Cumann, Dún Laoghaire CDC

12.That this Ard Fheis commits to extending the natural gas pipeline to Longford as part of improving infrastructure in the midlands.

Cullyfad Cumann, Longford CDC

13.That this Ard-Fheis calls on RTE to retain its full long wave service until 2017 and beyond.

London Cumann

14.That this Ard Fheis proposes that all SIM cards and phones should only be purchased with valid photo identification. A database with all registered SIMs should be established.


15.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to reinvest in rural Ireland and ensure that adequate broadband is in place in all parts of the country to help businesses and homes prosper countrywide.

Rosemount Cumann, Westmeath CDC

16.That this Ard Fheis agrees that new legislation should be introduced to allow the Energy Regulator to reduce prices when the real and true cost of energy is less than what the consumer is being charged.



Resolutions

Environment and Local Government17.That this Ard Fheis, in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as established in the Treaties of Amsterdam and Lisbon, and in recognition of the unique nature of Irish towns and their hinterlands, commits Fianna Fáil to the repeal of the Local Government Reform Act 2014; and to reinstating local government structures which would give local communities real autonomy for their infrastructural, commercial, social, recreational and other needs.

Sean Buckley Cumann, Cork South West CDC

18.That this Ard Fheis expresses its appreciation and support for Deputy Barry Cowen TD, in his role as Party Spokesperson on the Environment on Local Government.

Bracknagh Cumann, Offaly CDC

19.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government not to impose any charges for water until leaks are fixed first.

Charles Daly Cumann, Cork South Central CDC

20.That this Ard Fheis supports the full implementation and completion of the de-centralisation program for Longford.


21.That this Ard Fheis calls for an immediate revival of the proposal for a directly elected mayor for the people of Dublin and calls on the Parliamentary Party to introduce legislation enabling its creation.

Sean Lemass Malahide Cumann, Dublin Fingal CDC

22.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to respect the right of Irish citizens to vote in local, national, European elections and referenda where they have exercised their rights to free-movement within the EU.

London Cumann

23.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to establish a Minister for Dublin.


24.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to establish a Minster for Older People.


www.fiannafail.ie

25.That this Ard Fheis makes a commitment to abolish Irish Water and allow local councils to manage the water supply.

Fahan Cumann, Donegal CDC. Related motion from Carlow Ógra CDC

26.That this Ard Fheis condemns the government for spinning the property tax as ‘new’ funding for local authorities while simultaneously cutting local authorities’ block grants.

Carlow Ógra CDC

27.That this Ard Fheis mandates Fianna Fáil to investigate as part its manifesto preparations, the introduction of V.A.T. Free Zones in towns with a population between 5,000 and 10,000 in order to rejuvenate town centres and encourage new businesses in the heart of our communities.

Michael O’Hanrahan Cumann, Wexford CDC

28.That this Ard Fheis agrees that Irish Water should be dissolved and this should be part of the party’s general election manifesto.


29.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the €172 million start-up costs for Irish water have been misspent while not an extra cent was spent on water infrastructure.

North Navan Cumann, Meath West CDC

30.That this Ard Fheis agrees that a new mutually owned holding company should replace Irish Water and that it should employ no more than 100 staff.

Loughrea Comhairle Ceanntair, Galway East CDC

31.That this Ard Fheis agrees that water charges should be suspended until the national infrastructure is brought up to standard.

Liam Mellows Cumann, Galway East CDC

32.That this Ard Fheis condemns the way this Fine Gael /Labour government are treating LEADER funding which has been halved and more in some areas.

Jack Lynch Kantuk Cumann, Cork North West CDC


Resolutions

Health33.That this Ard Fheis supports more outreach services for suicide prevention.

Garlow Cross Cumann, Meath East CDC

34.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to ensure that adequate funding is made available for Home Help so that A+E can be eased of pressure.


35.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to ensure that never again can any HSE section send back money unspent to the exchequer where funds are needed.


36.That this Ard Fheis calls on Fianna Fáil to be more innovative and imaginative in developing policies to tackle alcohol and drug problems in our society.

Carndonagh Cumann, Donegal CDC

37.That this Ard Fheis agrees that all people over eighty years of age be entitled to a Medical Card. This would mean restoring Medical Cards to those who lost entitlement prior to reaching eighty years of age.

Bruff Cumann, Limerick CDC

38.That Fianna Fáil will oppose any attempt to Repeal Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution.

Naas Comhairle Ceanntair, Kildare North CDC

39.That this Ard Fheis proposes that Accident and Emergency Departments be set up to cater for mental health issues.


40.That this Ard Fheis proposes that Fianna Fáil become creative in their initiatives in relation to preventative health measures.

Inishowen Comhairle Ceanntair, Donegal CDC

41.That this Ard Fheis proposes that when Fianna Fáil returns to power, we will change the present structures in the health service and replace it with a totally revised service.

Jerh. Hourigan Cumann, Cork North Central CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

42.That this Ard Fheis supports the return of the 24 hour A + E cover to Ennis General Hospital, even on a temporary basis, thereby alleviating the enormous pressure on Limerick Regional Hospital.

Quin Cumann, Clare CDC

43.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to contact health insurance providers to ensure conditions, benefits, and terms of health plans are more transparent.


44.That this Ard Fheis proposes a 5% levy on all alcoholic drinks sold after midnight.


45.That this Ard Fheis would include as part of the Fianna Fáil health policy the building of the North East Regional Hospital in Navan through Public Private Partnership.

Navan West Comhairle Ceanntair, Meath West CDC

46.That this Ard Fheis would review the structures for diagnosis of Autism. Early diagnosis will allow parents access the help and back up services badly needed after the initial diagnosis.


47.That this Ard Fheis believes that more GP’s should be trained to ensure that all areas of the country are serviced by Primary Care teams.

Millstreet Comhairle Ceanntair, Cork North West CDC

48.That this Ard Fheis agrees that a National Mental Health Authority be introduced to tackle Ireland’s mental health issues in a tangible way and to ensure that all money allocated is spent in the mental health area.

Ballyfermot-Drimnagh Cumann, Dublin South Central CDC

49.That this Ard Fheis agrees that health services not health structures should be priority for the next government.

Millstreet Cumann, Cork North West CDC

50.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the new maternity hospital replacing the Rotunda be located in Blanchardstown.

Castleknock North Cumann, Dublin West CDC


Resolutions

51.That this Ard Fhies condemns the fact that there are over 405,000 people waiting to be seen by Specialist Consultants in Outpatients across the country and that the National treatment Purchase fund should be reinstated to tackle these lists.

Bullaun Cumann, Galway East CDC

Department of Children52.That this Ard Fheis agrees to support a childcare policy to be one of the key policy platforms at the next general election, championing real reform of childcare including the provision of increased preschool numbers and effective tax relief for working parents.

Connolly/Sarsfield Cumann, Dublin Mid West CD

53.That this Ard Fheis calls on Fianna Fáil in government to address the urgent need for capital funding for childcare and proposes an expansion and increase in the training and professional development of childcare workers and to ensure that our children get the best start in our childcare facilities.

Johnstown Cumann, Meath West CDC

54.That this Ard Fheis agrees that child care workers should be paid better rates and that this should be examined by the Low Pay Commission.

Carlow Town Cumann, Carlow CDC

55.That this Ard Fheis agrees that maternity leave should be extended by another month initially and more thereafter to allow babies to get the best care.


56.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the ECCE scheme first introduced by Fianna Fáil in 2009 be extended to another year.

Brian Lenihan Templeogue Cumann, Dublin South West CDC

57.That this Ard Fheis agrees that waiting times for children with speech and language difficulties are a national disgrace and that there should be 500 therapy staff employed in the health and education as a matter of urgency.


www.fiannafail.ie

Finance and Public Expenditure

58.That this Ard Fheis proposes to reform, and ultimately abolish, the Universal Social Charge, to help hard pressed working families.


59.That this Ard Fheis proposes to discontinue the anti-family practice of taxing maternity benefits.


60.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Taoiseach to initiate an independent tribunal to end the repossession of the family home (except strategic defaulters).


61.That this Ard Fheis proposes that the rates evaluation office puts policies and procedures in place for assisting urban and rural communities when a major stakeholder in that community closes, such as a hotel or factory. This policy would empower the local authorities to support their communities by way of rate reduction.

Portumna/Boula Cumann, Galway East CDC

62.That this Ard Fheis supports the right to a family home.

Deilginis Cumann, Dún Laoghaire CDC

63.That this Ard Fheis would look to replace the USC, PAYE and PRSI taxes with one tax.


64.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be fundamental reform of Ireland’s tax system and accepts there is a need to simplify the tax code and recognise the ability to pay.


65.That this Ard Fheis agrees that increasing tax credits over and above changes to the tax rates and bands is a fairer way of ensuring that all workers get the same monetary relief depending on how much they earn.



Resolutions

66.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the thresholds for inheritance tax be reviewed as a matter of urgency and that Fianna Fáil believes that people who are far from wealthy should not end up selling a property they have inherited to pay the capital acquisitions tax bill.

Sean Lemass Cumann, Dublin Rathdown CDC

67.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be an increase to the mortgage interest relief from 30% to 40% for those who bought homes prior to 2009.


68.That this Ard Fheis condemns the practice of the banks who are not passing on mortgage interest rate relief which is crippling over 300,000 home owners as Ireland has the highest variable mortgage rate in the EU.

Padraig MacPiarais Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC .

69.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the Fine Gael /Labour government have failed to take adequate action to prevent the country’s mortgage crisis leading to hundreds of repossession cases being heard in every circuit court across the country on a weekly basis.

Thomas Condon Cumann, Meath East CDC

70.That this Ard Fheis condemn Fine Gael/Labour Government for not setting up an independent mortgage resolution office to assist people in mortgage distress.

Thomas Condon Cumann, Meath East CDC

71.That this Ard Fheis calls on all bonus payments to Bank CEO’s to be suspended until the variable mortgage rate issue is resolved fairly for the home owners.

Charleville Cumann, Cork North West CDC

72.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the pension levy for public sector workers be abolished.


73.That this Ard Fheis agrees that retired public sector workers should be consulted in the new rounds of social dialogue.

Anthony O’Reilly Cumann, Kildare North CDC

74.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the cuts in the FEMPI legislation be reversed.

Sean Lemass Cumann, Dublin Rathdown CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Transport, Tourism and Sport75.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to provide the resources to ensure traffic legislation is implemented.

Connolly/Sarsfield Cumann, Dublin Mid-West CDC

76.That this Ard Fheis admonishes government parties for their handling of the crisis situation of Cork Airport.


77.That this Ard Fheis admonishes government parties for their handling of the proposed N6 route in Galway City, which has caused immeasurable anguish to householders and communities in the city and its environs, with the prospect of some 140 houses facing demolition and the city’s university plan for a single campus facing ruin.


78.That this Ard Fheis directs that the Government not sell its shareholding in Aer Lingus and to retain the Heathrow slots.

Sean Lemass Cumann, Clare CDC. Related motion from Quin Cumann, Clare CDC

79.That this Ard Fheis slams the government for savage cuts to many local authorities’ roads budgets.

Carlow Ógra CDC

80.That this Ard Fheis proposes that a review of the ‘Motorised Transport Grant’ take place and that this grant includes a provision for the visually impaired as young men and women living in rural Ireland where public transport is non-existent are dependent on a parent or spouse to provide all transport needs to this individual.

Portumna/Boula Cumann, Galway East

81.That this Ard Fheis calls for the delivery of the Navan Rail Line to be included in the party’s transport policy.


82.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to work with Fáilte Ireland to relax the rules around regulation of the small accommodation sector to make it a better return on investment in terms of a quality benchmark as much as a return in bookings.

London Cumann


Resolutions

83.That this Ard Fheis looks at developing a clear strategy outlining the malpractice of rate parity that has a detrimental effect on the small accommodation sector, and looks at how Germany has declared this practice illegal and other EU states are following the same line.

London Cumann

84.That this Ard Fheis agrees that regional airports will lose out if Aer Lingus is sold.

Quin Cumann, Clare CDC

85.That this Ard Fheis agrees that public transport in the South East should not be cut as it is vital for rural communities to remain connected.

Kilmyshall Cumann, Wexford CDC

Defence86.That this Ard Fheis supports the Irish Defence Forces and endeavours to ensure that proposed changes in the upcoming defence review will be made for reasons of national defence instead of financial gain.


87.That this Ard Fheis agrees that an extra 1000 soldiers are recruited so that the Irish Army will be back at 10,500 personnel levels.

Anthony O’Reilly Cumann, Kildare North CDC

88.That this Ard Fheis agrees to reinstate the Western Brigade in Athlone.

Westmeath CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Justice & Equality

89.That this Ard Fheis condemns the reduction of 118 Gardaí from the Drug Squad. This action will have a detrimental effect on our communities.


90.That this Ard Fheis calls on our Party to convene a group, constituted of health-care providers, frontline staff of sexual violence centres, former members of the judiciary, and legal experts, to formulate policy based on the Sexual Abuse and Violence in Ireland (SAVI) Report, so as to ensure that sexual crimes are prosecuted, victims are protected, and abuse is prevented.


91.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to expedite the appointment of a National Rapporteur on Trafficking in Human Beings.


92.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to enact, with urgency, the General Scheme of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Bill 2014, which though published, is now several years in the making.


93.That this Ard Fheis calls on our party to introduce a tough defining policy on tackling crime, whereby sentencing fits the crime committed.

Cloughjordan Cumann, Offaly CDC

94.That this Ard Fheis condemns the government for its abject failure to respond to gun crime and the increasing number of illegally held guns in our communities.

Dublin South Central CDC

95.That this Ard Fheis condemns the practice of fuel smuggling and the negative ecological impact it has resulted in throughout border areas.

Down Ógra

96.That this Ard Fheis asks for the immediate reversal of the voluntary maximum contribution for family District Court Legal Aid from €130 to €50.

Cabinteely/Ballybrack Cumann, Dún Laoghaire CDC


Resolutions

97.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for Justice to provide adequate resources to An Garda Síochána to combat the scourge of burglaries in Dublin in particular and that sanctions contained in legislation are increased in cases of repeat offenders or that other deterrents are put in place.

Donaghmede Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC

98.That this Ard Fheis agrees with legislation being introduced to introduce mandatory sentencing for those who commit burglaries.

Sean Moylan Newmarket Cumann, Cork North West CDC

99.That this Ard Fheis agrees to increase the Garda force to 14,000 to make our communities safe again.


100.That this Ard Fheis agrees that a Victim Compensation Fund should be set up so that victims of crime can receive some compensation from the criminals which should also act as a deterrent.

Ballyfermot-Drimnagh Cumann, Dublin South Central CDC

101.That this Ard Fheis agrees that more money should be allocated to treat drug addicts as there are people on methadone treatments for up to 23 years. More beds should be made available as well as specially trained staff.

Con Colbert Cumann, Dublin Central CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht102.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister to order the Office of Public Works to formalise an Architectural and Strategic Plan for the Crawford Art Gallery in Cork City.


103.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister to put in place more resources so that cultural institutions can remain open on Sundays and bank holidays.


104.That this Ard Fheis proposes that the Fianna Fáil party should commemorate the 1916 Rising in an appropriate manner.

Cabinteeley Cumann, Dun Laoghaire CDC

105.That this Ard Fheis mandates Fianna Fáil to support the commissioning and creation of an official museum and interpretative centre for the Head of State and Presidency.


106.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Government to seek to obtain any historic items which were taken from the volunteer/citizen army after the Rising which are now in the possession of the British Government.


107.Go molann an Ardfheis seo d’Fhianna Fáil é a bheith mat pholasaí acu na scéimeanna feabhsucháin agus na scéimeanna tithíochta a thabhairt ar ais de bharr an tábhacht a bhain leo i saol na Gaeilge.

Conamara Theas Comhairle Ceanntair, Gaillimh CDC

108.That this Ard Fheis supports Irish being a mandatory leaving cert subject.

Loughrea Comhairle Ceanntair, Galway East CDC

109.Go Molann an Ardfheis seo go mbeadh sé mar pholasaí ag Fianna Fáil go mbeidh brod an Úadarás na Gaeltachta atá tofa go daonlathach ag pobal na Gaeltachta.


110.Molann an Ardfheis seo go mba cheart don pháirtí polasaí náisiúnta don Ghaeilge a ullmhú agus é bunaithe ar an straitéis 20 bliain.

Cábán TSíle/An Baile Breac, Dún Laoghaire CDC


Resolutions

Agriculture, Food & Community Affairs111.That this Ard Fheis condemns the manner in which Department of Agriculture Inspectors interpret the eligibility rules that significantly reduce the REP areas on marginal lands, in particular, lands designated under Natura 2000 Network in Ireland.

Kilbeacanty-Ballyturin-Ballycahalan Cumann, Galway East CDC

112.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to fully implement the Cedra Report which was recommended as a result of Teagasc research carried out independently on its behalf and that it also be considered in the Fianna Fáil election manifesto.

Kilbeacanty-Ballyturin-Ballycahalan Cumann, Galway East CDC

113.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to immediately implement a balanced regional development strategy for rural Ireland.


114.That this Ard Fheis calls on the party to investigate and bring forward proposals for the introduction of a Programme to support and develop the community sector in society.


115.That salmon fishing licences be reinstated with fishery boards that are adequately staffed.

Inishowen Comhairle Ceanntair, Donegal CDC

116.That this Ard Fheis supports the fight for survival of Rural Ireland, preventing the demise of our small schools, post offices, Garda stations and ambulance services and reflect on the fact that our Leader funding has been cut by 50% which is detrimental to Rural Ireland.

Glengad Cumann, Donegal CDC

117.That this Ard Fheis proposes that a ‘Farm Pass Certificate’ be adopted similar to that of a ‘safe pass’. This training would be mandatory for all involved in farming activities.

Portumna/Boula Cumann, Galway East CDC

118.Go Molann an Ardfheis seo go mba cheart an deontas talamhaíochta faoin scéim DAS/ANC a dhúbailt i gceantar na gcnoc de bharr an míbhuntáiste a bhaineann le na ceantair seo ó thaobh na talamhaíochta de.


www.fiannafail.ie

119.That this Ard Fheis commends the work of Eamon O’ Cuiv in trying to achieve fair prices for all farm produce.

Ballaghaderreen Cumann, Roscommon/Galway East CDC

120.That this Ard Fheis agrees that this Fine Gael /Labour Government has not exhausted every avenue to attempt to reduce the milk super levy.

Ballaghaderreen Cumann, Roscommon/Galway East CDC

Education and Skills121.That this Ard Fheis urges the inclusion of history as a core subject in the new junior cycle.

Deilginis Cumann, Dun Laoghaire CDC

122.That this Ard Fheis supports the protection of the integrity of the state exams and the right of all students to equal opportunities.

Deilginis Cumann, Dun Laoghaire CDC

123.That this Ard Fheis supports equalisation of funding for voluntary secondary schools to bring them into line with state schools and thus ensure equality for all students.

Fermoyle Cumann, Clare CDC

124.That this Ard Fheis supports the building of sports halls in schools to replace general purpose halls. Such sports halls should be designed to meet the needs of local communities.

Fermoyle Cumann, Clare CDC

125.That this Ard Fheis fully supports the creation of a Technological University in the South East with Carlow IT and Waterford IT as the main campuses.

Carlow Ógra CDC

126.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for Education to restore the full guidance and careers service to all second-level schools that her government has decimated over recent years.

Cabinteeley Cumann, Dun Laoghaire CDC

127.That this Ard Fheis requests that an independent committee be set up to review and have an in-depth look into the current points system for 3rd level entry.

Tipperary CDC


Resolutions

128.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to provide additional pastoral care resources.

Tipperary CDC

129.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to restore the requirement and provide the resources for all secondary schools to provide career guidance teachers.

Tipperary CDC

130.That this Ard Fheis calls on the government to introduce a program of fitness and well-being as part of the SPHE program in secondary schools.

Tipperary CDC

131.That this Ard Fheis, believing in all island investment in education to achieve social and economic progress, condemns the regressive Sinn Fein education policies in the North, particularly their planned sacking of 2,000 teachers.

PH Pearse Cumann, Wexford CDC

132.That this Ard Fheis calls on the party to develop a policy on an inclusive apprenticeship training programme. Such a training programme should include craft and skilled trades as well as the IT and medicare sectors.


133.That this Ard Fheis calls for the retention of all small schools as they are crucial for each community they serve.

Glengad Cumann, Donegal CDC

134.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be an increase in special resource hours to the recommended level of 92.5% from 2015 school year.

Buncrana Cumann, Donegal CDC

135.That this Ard Fheis condemns this government for allowing the cuts to the funding allocation to the crucial third level research and development area (R&D) and calls for an increase in this funding stream as a matter of urgency.

Malin Cumann, Donegal CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Foreign Affairs & Northern Ireland136.That this Ard Fheis calls the government to establish a single government agency to assist organisations with an interest in China, whether political, economic, social or cultural.

Dublin Rathdown CDC

137.That this Ard Fheis supports maintaining a close social and economic relationship with the UK should they leave the EU.


138.That this Ard Fheis notes, with concern, speculation that the threat of privatisation hangs over many of Northern Ireland’s key public services including NI Water and Translink, and challenges Sinn Féin not to add to its litany of hypocrisy by selling off key strategic interests in the North whilst rhetorically opposing such policies in the 26 counties.

Down Ógra

139.That this Ard Fheis reasserts its belief in international solidarity with developing nations and expresses its serious concern at this Government’s failure to take seriously our commitment to reach UN targets on overseas development aid.


140.That this Ard Fheis expresses its solidarity with the people of Ukraine and supports concerted European action to oppose Russian aggression toward the countries of central and eastern Europe.


141.That this Ard Fheis notes the 50th anniversary of the publication and implementation of the Lockwood report which deprived Derry City of a full sized university campus; recognises that Derry and the North West has the smallest percentage of higher educational provision of any region on the island; calls on the Northern Ireland Executive to fully implement the recommendations of the One Plan to expand the Magee campus to 9,400 students by 2020.

William Drennan Cumann, QUB

142.That this Ard Fheis notes the recent decline of admissions of students from the North into 3rd level institutions in the Republic, and calls on Fianna Fáil to support greater cross-border student mobility by removing the four A-level obstacle and reforming the admission procedure.

William Drennan Cumann, QUB


Resolutions

143.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the Good Friday Agreement should be fully implemented and an extra effort be made by all parties both North and South as we approach its twentieth anniversary in 2018.


144.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be a full inquiry into the murder of Mr Finucane and finds it extraordinary that the British government will not accede to this request.

Boleybeg Cumann, Galway West CDC

145.That this Ard Fheis agrees that there should be an all island inquiry into outstanding allegations of sexual abuse that were not dealt with by the proper authorities both North and South but instead dealt with by Kangaroo courts.


146.That this Ard Fheis condemns the punishment beatings that are still occurring in the North and calls for immediate action at political and Northern Executive to prevent them for continuing.


147.That this Ard Fheis agrees that more should be done to ensure economic co-operation between North and South.


www.fiannafail.ie

Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation148.That this Ard Fheis calls for the creation of a Newry-Dundalk Cross Border Strategic Development Zone, building upon the positive interactions between local authorities and business communities on both sides of the border.

Down Ógra

149.That this Ard Fheis condemns the IDA for ignoring rural counties and calls on the Minister to drop the spin and get people back to work.

Carlow Ógra CDC

150.That this Ard Fheis calls on the Minister for Enterprise to investigate the anomalies that relate to Investor- to - State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) which are contained in the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership.(TTIP)


151.That this Ard Fheis states that Fianna Fáil, in government, would prohibit the use of ‘zero hours contracts’ and provide protection for employees in guaranteeing a fair weekly wage.


152.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the minimum wage should be increased by at least 6%.


153.That this Ard Fheis agrees that no company should be allowed to victimise employees who go on strike and there should be legislation introduced to make this type of behaviour illegal.


154.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the Dunne’s Stores workers were entitled to strike to highlight how they are being treated, that they should have a right to request more hours, and agrees that the way their hours were being distributed was unfair and did not allow them to plan or to save money.

North Navan Cumann, Meath West CDC.

155.That this Ard Fheis agrees that employers should not be allowed to ignore the industrial machinery of the state and in the event of a dispute it should be mandatory for employers to attend the Labour Relations Commission.

North Navan Cumann, Meath West CDC.


Resolutions

156.That this Ard Fheis agrees that the way the zero hour contracts are being applied is unacceptable and that there needs to be dramatic changes to the legislation to allow the employee more access to work.


157.That this Ard Fheis calls for zero hour contracts to be outlawed.

Paddy Brennan Cumann, Galway West CDC

158.That this Ard Fheis agrees that employers having flexibility should not result in workers’ rights being undermined.

Ballaghadereen Cumann, Roscommon/Galway East CDC

159.That this Ard Fheis agrees that a part time employee should have the right to request more hours from his /her employer and where possible should receive them instead of employing another part time temporary employee.


www.fiannafail.ie

Organisation1. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Ard Chomhairle and the Parliamentary Party to publicly commit not to go into Government with Fine Gael after the next General Election.

Dublin Rathdown CDC. Related motion from Kevin Barry Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC.

2. That this Ard Fheis instructs Fianna Fáil not to enter government as a minority party following the next general election.

Inishowen Comhairle Ceanntair, Donegal CDC. Related motions from Fahan Cumann, Donegal CDC and Mullingar/Kilbeggan Comhairle Ceantair, Westmeath CDC

3. That this Ard Fheis instructs Fianna Fáil to embrace the true Republicans of Northern Ireland who wish to support Fianna Fáil.

Kevin Barry Cumann, Dublin Bay North CDC

4. That this Ard Fheis agrees to restrict the length of time that a person can hold an officer board position of a Cumann, Comhairle Ceantair or Comhairle Dáil Ceantair to three consecutive years.

Athlone Comhairle Ceantair, Westmeath CDC

5. That this Ard Fheis supports, for a cumann with small level membership, that the number of paid up members be reduced to four to qualify for free registration, or a reduced sum (provided they take up national collection).

Bartlemy Cumann, Cork East CDC

6. That this Ard Fheis requests that dates or submissions of various returns (resolutions, nominations, delegate passes, etc.) should all coincide so that there are no omissions, arising from date variances.


7. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Party to issue a report in the aftermath of this, and future Ard Fheiseanna, detailing which motions have passed and which motions have not.



Resolutions

8. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Party to re-orient the purpose of its website as a vehicle for communicating its mission in the form of a news portal, for articulating its policy in decisive and succinct terms, for collecting subscriptions from members, for collecting payments for events, for enabling members to manage their details via a private portal, for enabling prospective members to sign up, and for enabling prospective members to locate via a map the details of their nearest cumann/comhairle.


9. That this Ard Fheis agrees to roll out the Futures Group model in all Fianna Fáil units and target the 25-40 year old.


10. That this Ard Fheis calls for the implementation of Gender Quotas at Ard Chomhairle level.


11. That this Ard Fheis calls for the establishment in every constituency of a women’s network.


12. That the exceedingly short campaign time between close of nominations and Selection Conventions potentially disadvantages new, young and non-incumbent candidates and that this campaign time be extended to allow all prospective candidates properly engage with members.


13. That every CDC appoint/elect a link person to deal with all 1916 commemoration events and to liaise with the national committee to ensure full membership participation in these events.


14. That there be a structured and open dialogue with members about which European Political Grouping reflects best the values and vision of Fianna Fáil.


www.fiannafail.ie

15. That we have a largely untapped resource amongst the women members of Fianna Fáil who have a wealth of experience in the workplace, the home, small business and community involvement and that a targetted programme should be put in place to encourage and help these women go forward to seek selection as a candidate at Convention and, if successful, election.


16. That Micheal Martin’s Leadership in offering a centrist alternative and eschewing the populist policies of the Left and the unjust policies of the Right should be commended and fully supported in the run-up to the election.


17. That each CDC should aspire to have 50% of their Officer Boards consist of female members.

Dublin Rathdown CDC

18. That each constituency organisation be asked to hold a policy convention chaired by a member of the Parlimentary Party, with each Party member invited to have motions discussed, and a report of the conclusions written and sent for inclusion into a national report, which would then be coordinated by experts who are members of Fianna Fáil, and this would become the basis for an election manifesto, as was done last in 1975.

Dublin Rathdown CDC

19. That Fianna Fáil hold training for all its CDC and CC PRO’s or Secretaries as part of the build-up to fight next year’s general election.

Letterkenny Comhairle Ceanntair, Donegal CDC. Related motion from Sarah Murphy Cumann, Donegal CDC

20. That hustings (Candidate Debates) should be incorporated into the Selection/Convention Process of all elections in the future.

Kildare North CDC. Related motion from Naas Comhairle Ceanntair, Kildare North CDC

21. That this Ard Fheis supports giving members an option to combine their membership fee and a National Draw Ticket at a reduced rate, providing an incentive for more people to join.

Ennistymon Comhairle Ceanntair, Clare CDC


Resolutions

22. That this Ard Fheis mandates the creation of Assembly Constituency Executives, District Executives, and Cumainn in the six counties, mirroring the structure in the twenty six counties, to be in place by Easter 2016.

William Drennan Cumann, QUB. Related motions from Cloonkeen Cumann, Dún Laoghaire CDC; Cloonacool Cumann, Sligo CDC; Sean Lemass Malahide Cumann, Dublin Fingal CDC; Dromore West Comhairle Ceanntair, Sligo CDC

23. That this Ard-Fheis calls on the Fianna Fáil organisation to look at different means of web-based technology to allow members of various organisational committees who live outside Dublin to attend and participate in meetings without the need and expense of travelling to Dublin regularly.

London Cumann

24. That the Ard Comhairle reviews the funding rebate mechanism from the National Draw and, as an encouragement to expand the membership of the party, the AC will investigate the feasibility of returning 75% of the ticket sales revenue in return for the doubling of the CDC membership each calendar year.


25. That this Ard Fheis calls on the Ard Chomhairle to have a major conference in Northern Ireland in the next year on the theme of Fianna Fáil as a party for All Ireland.


26. That all candidates going forward for nomination at a selection convention for either local or general elections pay to Fianna Fáil HQ a fee as set by the Ard Chomhairle which will be refunded in full to the candidate within two weeks of polling day provided the candidate has not broken the party pledge prior to this date.

Tipperary CDC

27. That the role of Fianna Fáil Vice President be made more active and that each of five vice presidents be assigned to be responsible for an area of the country with one vice president responsible for Northern Ireland and abroad. Under this role, the vice president would work with the CDC units in their assigned area on membership and would give the CDC a formal channel to the Ard Chomhairle to express their issues and ideas.

Tipperary CDC

28. That this Ard Fheis calls on the organisation to put in place strict and clear internal party disciplinary regulations to deal with members who bring the party’s name into disrepute.

Knockdrin Cumann, Westmeath CDC

www.fiannafail.ie

Notes


www.fiannafail.ie

Up the Republic, they raise their battle cry Pearse and McDermott will pray for you on high Eager and ready, for love of you they die Proud march the Soldiers of the Rearguard

Chorus: Legion of the rearguard, answering Ireland’s call Hark, their martial tramp is heard from Cork to Donegal Wolfe Tone and Emmett guide you, though your task be hard De Valera leads you, Soldiers of the Legion of the Rearguard

Glorious the morning through flame and shot and shell Now, rally Ireland, your sons who love you well Pledged they’ll defend you, though death or prison cell Wait for the Soldiers of the Rearguard

~Chorus~

Crimson the roadside, the prison walls, the cave Proof of their valour, go sleep in peace ye brave Comrade tread lightly, you’re near a hero’s grave Proud die the Soldiers of the Rearguard

~Chorus~

Shell shattered fortress and shot scarred brigade Trumpet the story of the glorious fight they made Wearied, outnumbered, undaunted, unafraid God bless the Soldiers of the Rearguard

~Chorus~

Soldiers of The Legion of The Rearguard

Every year the Organising Committee liaises with the Gardaí over safety and security at the Ard-Fheis.

We want the security to be as unobtrusive as possible but do have to ensure the safety of our members attending. Please co-operate with any requests made to you by Gardaí and security staff during the day.

Security personnel have the right to refuse admission.

Your ticket must be visible at all times. This ticket is valid only if accompanied by valid photo ID, for example:

• Driver’s Licence

• Passport

• Department of Social and Family Affairs Client ID

• Garda Age Card

Your ticket is traceable to the holder and his/her cumann.

Access to the auditorium will be on a first come - first served basis.

If you lose your ticket, report it immediately to the Enquiries/Ticket Collection Office who will advise you on obtaining a replacement.

Every member will be asked to show their ticket accompanied by their membership card at the entrance to the convention centre.

Large items of luggage and coats are not allowed in the conference venue. Please keep items to a minimum to speed up the admission process. Regular ticket and bag checks can be irritating - none of us like to queue – but we are sure you understand why such security is necessary.

Security at the Ard-Fheis

Fianna Fáil65-66 Lower Mount Street Dublin 2

Tel 01 6761551Email [email protected] www.fiannafail.ie

clar 2015 - an ireland for all

Documents

merrion road stops

bus routes

bus numbers

sandymount dart station

anglesea road stops

ardfheis clr

rds main complex hall

sandymount avenue