Newry Armagh Sinn Féin Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

Armagh Sinn Féin Office Open A Book of Condolence for the People of Palestine

Published: 9 January, 2009

On Tuesday 6th January a book of condolence was opened for the murdered people of Palestine in the Armagh Sinn Féin office. In attendance were local councillors Cathy Rafferty and Mayor of Armagh Noel Sheridan, as well as the MLA for Newry and Armagh Cathal Boylan.

Commenting on the launch Cathal Boylan said,

"There is widespread anger and disgust at the actions that are taking place in Palestine as we speak. The Israeli ground offensive in Gaza, while widely anticipated will be greeted with horror around the world. The latest development marks a further escalation of the onslaught endured by the people of Gaza for the past week. As the death toll reaches nearly 800, hospitals are struggling to cope with the more than 2,000 injured. The United Nations has advised that there is a growing shortage of basic foodstuffs and fresh water because of damage to the infrastructure in Gaza. This is nothing short of a humanitarian crisis."

The Sinn Féin MLA also gave details of a Sinn Féin motion to the Assembly which stated 'This Assembly condemns the appalling loss of life in Gaza and calls on those responsible for all attacks on civilians to cease.'

"Obviously the attention of the world is focused on the situation in Gaza. Numerous Sinn Féin leaders have highlighted our position over the past few days and called for an immediate ceasefire in the area. We hope that this motion will be a further expression of our concern and assist the world wide calls for an immediate ceasefire and end to hostilities. I would also call on the people of Armagh to call to our offices and sign the book of condolence and send their support to the people of Palestine"

The Book of Condolence can be signed at the Sinn Féin offices in Armagh, Newry and Crossmaglen