Wexford's Opera House to host Sinn Féin Ard Fheis

The Sinn Féin Ard Fheis will be held in Wexford towns iconic Opera House next year in a move that could be worth up to €5 million to the local economy.  Over 1000 delegates from across the thirty two counties of Ireland will be expected to descend on the town for the weekend long event next Spring.

The Chairperson of County Wexford Sinn Féin, Oisin O' Connell, said that while he was proud his county had been chosen to host the annual gathering of his party, he was far happier to know that hard hit local businesses would benefit significantly from the crowds that will be drawn into Wexford town for the event.

"The Sinn Féin Ard Fheis is a truly national event  which brings together republicans from across the thirty two counties of Ireland to debate motions on the most pressing issues of the day," Mr O' Connell said.  "Its an event that garners international attention and so requires a momentous venue, and what better venue to hold it in than our own iconic Opera House."

"This county was one of the birth places of Irish republicanism and is steeped with monumental history, from the pikemen of 1798 to 1916 leader Michael O' Hanrahan and beyond.  That spirit is still alive in the county today and  the party's decision to host next year's Ard Fheis  here is a vote of confidence in the local Sinn Féin organisation which has expanded rapidly over the past few years."

"Not only will this event bring a huge economic boost to Wexford town but it will also give the people of this county a chance to hear the progressive alternatives to austerity and economic chaos that are being put forward by Sinn Féin and to join representatives from across this island in building a new republic based on equality and liberty."