Manorhamilton Labour representative speaks at Party Conference

The Sligo-Leitrim Labour Party was well represented at the 73rd Labour Party Annual Conference which took place last weekend (24-26 March) at which three delegates, including Leitrim Manorhamilton Area Rep Bernie Linnane presented.

In her first Party conference as a Local Area Representative, Leitrim woman Bernie Linnane restated Labour’s claims to be a "Green-Red" Party with a motion on the forestry sector. The Dromahair based accountant said, "Responsible forest management can benefit the climate, biodiversity and water quality, while also generating space for recreation and sustainable employment. The converse also applies, and reckless planting of commercial forestry can cause permanent damage to our local environment and ecosystem.

"In addition, the government's  plans for managing and  developing our woodlands and  forests run the risk of falling far short of targets necessary to  tackle climate change. The  involvement of large institutional funds in the  acquisition of lands for planting has caused alarm and  must raise serious questions. For the sake of our farmers, our families, and our environment,  we must get this right. It is time to revisit the basic premise of the Coillte project."

15-year-old Sam Cunningham, a Summerhill College student was just one of many young people attending the conference, made his maiden speech on the topic of the combat poverty agency. Sam said, "I spoke about the reinstatement of the combat poverty agency. In addition I spoke about citizens information centers and how there needs to be an increase in capacity to allow people to learn new skills and this will subsequently allow greater equality  between communities. There is ever growing division between communities. Since the combat poverty agency was disbanded 15 years ago much progress in disadvantaged communities have been regressed leading to greater divide between communities. if the combat poverty agency is reinstated it will allow greater communication between between communities and allow each to have an equal voice.

"I felt proud. When I stood there Infront of the large group of people speaking there were a mix of feelings a part of me felt nervous as there were many TDs and the party leader. It took a lot to speak but I am glad I did it and I would do a million times over."

Nessa Cosgrove, Local Area Representative for Sligo returned to a familiar theme speaking passionately about the under investment experienced by the Northwest of Ireland in terms of health care. The former Local and General Election candidate stated, "My motion committed Congress to supporting balanced regional development in all areas of health care. This contrasts with the existing East West divide when it comes to the provision of public service in this country."

Also at Cork was Sligo Labour Party stalwart, Michael Fox, who received a special award for his lifelong service to the Party.