The recent spell of extremely cold weather across the entire island has made the winter months an extremely difficult period for many. Many elderly and vulnerable people were housebound, and many households faced difficulties with heating and water, and people struggled to cope.
In situations like this is when we see the true value of community. Throught the country there were heartwarming stories of good community spirit and the spirit of an 'meitheal', as people did their utmost to help their elderly neighbours and assisted one another with heating and water issues. It is also in situations like these that community leaders show their worth. Republicans were not found lacking as Ógra and Sinn Féin activists throughout the country did their bit in making sure the vulnerable in their community were safe, and helping the community getting about their day to day business.
In Belfast, activists joined council workers and members of the community in gritting and clearing the paths and roadways and in attempting to get Belfast back moving. From MLAs and Cllrs to ordinary activists, and from the young and the old, a great response in all parts of the city ensured that SF stepped up to the plate in assisting the community.
Likewise in Derry, republicans were on the streets to assist with the efforts to help the vulnerable.
Pictured here, Derry Ógra activist Padraig Nash along with Northlands Sinn Féin Cllr Eric Mc Ginley, helping elderly residents in Hazlebank
Meanwhile in Tyrone, Ógra and Sinn Féin activists gritted the entrances to elderly residents houses in Strathroy and other parts of the town.
These are but a portion of the many actions that activists have undertaken to help the community and to show leadership, and throughout the 32 counties activists have not been found wanting. Make sure you do what you can to assist the vulnerable during this cold weather. If people are short water, try and help them get some, and check up on neighbours who are living alone. As republicans it is our duty to ensure that all portions of our community are looked after, and its the responsibility of all activists to show leadership in their own communities.
So maith sibh to all who have been involved in such initiatives (send on any pictures if you want them to be put on the blog) and keep up the good work comrades.
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