West Belfast Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Delivering for Citizens

Published: 1 December, 2008

The breakthrough in the discussions between Sinn Fein and the DUP on the transfer of powers on policing and justice; the successful securing of additional money from the British government; and the announcements around the Rapid Transit System and the West Belfast Enterprise Council, are all evidence of Sinn Fein's ability to deliver on its commitments, and deliver for citizens.

This has been a very challenging year. Sinn Féin was determined to ensure that the political institutions functioned in the partnership and power sharing way that is at the core of the Good Friday and Saint Andrews Agreements.

We were also determined to see progress on a number of major projects for west Belfast. These included ensuring that the Rapid Transit System incorporated the west of the City, the Enterprise Council plans for new projects, and the efficient development of the huge tract of land between the Glen Road and the Upper Springfield Road. We have made significant progress on all of these.

As a result of our efforts the Rapid Transit System will bring millions of pounds of investment into west Belfast, as well as jobs, we are on course to deliver a co-ordinated approach to development of the Glen Road land site and the Enterprise Council plans provide a vision for the future development of west Belfast .

There is also now agreement between Sinn Féin and the DUP on the issue of transfer of powers on policing and justice. In addition the two parties secured additional funding to cover issues such as the deferment of water charges, the removal of prescription charges and fuel poverty measures.

A number of vital social, economic and cultural matters, including for example Acht na Gaeilge and post Primary Education, continue to be work in progress.

Commenting on these developments Gerry Adams said:

"Sinn Féin believes the agreement we have reached with the DUP is capable of providing effective government and of making a real change in people's lives.

''2009 will be a challenging year. There is a lot of hard work ahead of us, especially to ensure the successful re-election of Bairbre de Brún in June to the European Parliament.

''Most importantly it's about making politics work and about delivering for citizens on all the many issues affecting them in their daily lives. That is the commitment and determination of Sinn Féin."