Mayo Sinn Féin TD, Rose Conway-Walsh has been appointed to a front bench role by party leader Mary Lou McDonald.

Deputy Conway-Walsh is the new Sinn Féin spokesperson for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment working on the All-Island Economy.

Teachta Conway-Walsh said:

“I am delighted to be appointed to this role and I look forward to developing progressive policies in the key areas of business sustainability, infrastructure, All-Island economy, tourism and workers rights.

“I will work constructively while ensuring the Minister and his Government are held to account in all the key areas. I look forward to working with Businesses, representative organisations, and unions to ensure sustainable growth, prosperity, and opportunity across the island.

“The recent Storm Éowyn has exposed the deficits in vital infrastructure which have led to electricity and water outages for unacceptable periods of time particularly along the Western Seaboard. The Government must immediately examine the loss to businesses and put in place supports to ensure these losses are addressed.

“It is government’s responsibility to ensure an environment whereby businesses can thrive and scale up as well as encouraging new start-up enterprises.

“I will be working on an all-island basis where it is practical to develop the all-island economy and the tourism offering of our entire island. Our natural resources must be utilised to revitalise rural economies and enhance national prosperity.

“I am a passionate supporter of workers rights and I intend to work in conjunction with unions to ensure workers are fairly treated.

“It is my firm belief that constitutional change on our island is on the horizon and I intend to work in a spirit of openness and inclusivity to prepare for the Referendum on Irish Unity as provided for in the Good Friday Agreement.”