For the first time ever Sinn Féin have selected three candidates in South Down to contest the 2027 Assembly Election.
Current MLAs Sinéad Ennis and Cathy Mason will be seeking re-election and will be joined by the former Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down Council, Councillor Michael Rice.
Speaking at the launch on Wednesday evening in Atticall Community and Sports Centre, Sinn Féin Vice President Michelle O’Neill said the party’s growth in South Down in the last decade shows that Sinn Féin can make history and win three seats in the area.
“For the first time ever, Sinn Féin will stand three candidates in South Down at the next Assembly election.
“Sinn Féin has grown incredibly in South Down over the last ten years.
“And next May we are going for three Assembly seats in South Down.
“Sinead Ennis, Cathy Mason, and Michael Rice live and breathe South Down.
“They work hard every day for all our people and communities, no matter their background.
“These three candidates embody the spirit of public service and integrity, with an unwavering commitment to bettering our society.
“So, let’s seize the opportunity to return the strongest Sinn Féin team ever in the Assembly election next year.
“Together, let’s make history in South Down. Let’s elect three Sinn Féin MLAs.”
Sinéad Ennis said: “It is an honour for me once again to put myself before the people of South Down and ask for your support in next year’s Assembly election.
“South Down is a constituency with enormous potential. I know people want to see increased investment in our towns and villages, investment that revitalises our local areas, supports small businesses, and creates real opportunities for everyone who calls this place home.
“Raising my young family here, I understand the pressures facing working families every day. That is why I will continue to stand up for investment in childcare services, and opportunities that allow our young people to build their futures here at home.
“That is why electing three Sinn Féin MLAs for the first time ever will help us build on the work being done in South Down and continue to deliver on what matters most for people in the area.”
Cathy Mason said: “I am incredibly proud to have the opportunity to once again put myself before the people of South Down and ask for their support in next year’s Assembly election.
“South Down is a constituency with huge potential. From our towns and villages to our rural communities, people want to see investment, opportunity and strong local representation that delivers for them every day.
“As a mother raising my family here, I understand the pressures facing working families. People want good schools, accessible healthcare, affordable childcare, quality housing and opportunities that allow our young people to build their future here at home.
“Over recent years we have seen real change across Ireland, and next May people in South Down will have the opportunity to strengthen Sinn Féin’s team, to continue delivering for local communities and help shape the future of our island.”
Michael Rice added: “My deep-rooted connection to the land and the local community drives my commitment to delivering for the people of South Down and ensuring their voices are represented at the highest levels of government.
“As part of a strong Sinn Féin MLA team, I am dedicated to delivering positive change, supporting local families and businesses, and working to ensure that the people of South Down continue to be strongly represented in the Assembly.
“So join us in making history and electing three Sinn Féin MLAs in South Down next May.”
CRÍOCH/ENDS
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