Cúige Uladh meeting followed by attendance at Trade Union march

Last Saturday, 23rd of October, Ogra activists from across Uladh gathered in Belfast for an key important Cúige meeting. The meeting, which was held in the felons club, began with a political update from Mary McArdle, who spoke at length on the challenges and priorities for the time ahead and how Ógra have a key role in all aspects of this.


Tribute was also paid to outgoing organiser Fra Cochrane. Fra, who has played a key role for Ógra, stepped down as organiser earlier this month due to conflicting commitments with university. Speaking on his time as Cúige organiser, national organiser, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire said 'Fra has done a brilliant job as organise over the past two years and I have no doubt that he will continue to play a key role in Ógra. He has been one of the most dedicated and hardworking activists and deserves a huge deal of thanks.'

Following the meeting Ógra activists attended a rally outside Belfast city hall, to show there anger at the current economic situation, and the proposed cuts to the North’s block grant by the Tory government.

The rally which was organised by the trade unions took place outside Belfast city hall and had thousands n attendance. This was a clear indication of the disgust felt by the public following last Wednesday’s statement by the British Chancellor, George Osborne.

Speaking on the event, Cúige organiser Padraig Quinn had this to say,

'Following Saturdays successful Cúige meeting, Ógra activists attended the rally, carrying placards and handing out Sinn Fein’s leaflets containing our proposals for tackling the economic situation. It is vital that Ógra activist voice there anger on these cuts, especially as young people will be among those most affected. The party has presented a clear and realistic alternative to the cuts, and we are the only party to do so. At this stage it is important not to role over, and remember large mobilisation like this can make a difference. In the coming months Ógra nationally, will be working on this issue, giving a voice to young people and presenting the parties innovative and creative ways of tackling this problem.

On the 4th of December Sinn Fein will be holding a nation wide rally opposing cuts. This will be an extremely important date and youth activists north and south must make every effort to attend.

Sinn Féin Rally, 4th December