Sinn Féin Assembly Member for Newry/Armagh, Conor Murphy, will contest the upcoming elections to Seanad Éireann, bringing a strong northern voice to Leinster House.

His candidacy underscores Sinn Féin’s commitment to representing the entire island of Ireland, promoting the All-Ireland economy, and advancing the Irish unity debate in the Oireachtas.

Speaking in Dublin, Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald said:

“Our goal is to ensure the voices of ordinary people across Ireland are heard in Leinster House. We will continue to have the backs of families, workers, and communities on critical issues, not least the housing crisis.

“Representation from the entire island of Ireland is also essential, and I am delighted that Conor Murphy will contest the Seanad election.

“With over thirty years of service as a Councillor, MP, and Assembly Member for Newry/Armagh, Conor brings unparalleled political and ministerial experience holding senior positions within the party and the northern Executive.

“From 2007-11 he was appointed Minister for Regional Development, from 2020-2022 Minister for Finance, and since Stormont was restored in February 2024, he has held the post of Minister for the Economy.

“He brings a huge wealth of experience as the party now continues to build our All-Ireland political project. He has been a consistent champion for the All-Ireland economy, infrastructure and connectivity representing a border constituency.

“Conor played a key role in the negotiations leading to the Good Friday Agreement and has been central to every major political negotiation and delivery since. As Sinn Féin’s chief negotiator, he has decades of experience working with both the Irish and British governments and engaging with political unionism, and key sectors north and south.

“Conor Murphy’s candidacy underscores Sinn Féin’s commitment to representing the entire island of Ireland, promoting the All-Ireland economy and advancing the Irish unity debate in the Oireachtas.

“As we prepare and plan for constitutional change, Sinn Féin is committed to mature, inclusive dialogue across the island and in Britain. Our proposals and the work of the Sinn Féin Commission on the future of Ireland reflect our dedication to achieving reunification and a peaceful, prosperous, and shared future for everyone who shares this island.

“I wish Conor and all Sinn Féin candidates the very best in this election. Conor will continue serving as a member of the Assembly and Economy Minister until the Seanad election concludes, after which we will assess the next steps.”