South Down MLA Chris Hazzard has been selected as Sinn Féin’s candidate to run for the South Down Westminster election due to be held on 7 May 2015.
Mr Hazzard was selected at a party convention held in the St Patrick’s Centre in Downpatrick on Sunday evening 12 September 2014.
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Sinn FéŽin Councillors Liam Johnston and Stephen Burns with a party helper and the South Down candidate Chris Hazzard at a recent welfare cuts protest in Downpatrick.[/caption]
Speaking at the event Mr Hazzard said: “I am looking forward to the challenges presented by this election and to offering the people of South Down an alternative to the failed politics of the SDLP.
“South Down has been neglected for too long. Our local economy needs this strong leadership and I am ready to deliver that leadership. If elected I will represent the needs of everyone in South Down, from the farmers in the Mournes to the local shop owners in Downpatrick.
“Tourism expansion is of central importance to our local economy. I will ensure that the kingdom of Mourne will be as recognisable around the world just as the kingdom of Kerry.
“For too long we have been left with political parties who are prepared to bow under to Tory ideology and implement cuts putting the most vulnerable people in even more poverty.
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Chris Hazzard MLA has been selected as the Sinn Féin South Down candidate.[/caption]
“Sinn Féin offers an alternative to the politics of accepting the breadcrumbs thrown from London and will stand strong against measures designed to impoverish our communities.
“While the SDLP publically stated that these cuts were insurmountable or that welfare reform should have been given accelerated passage, we have stood up and been counted.
“There is an opportunity for the people of South Down to now elect party that will use its mandate in a forthright manner in promoting the area, look at economic regeneration and protect basic services.
“I believe that there is a growing mood for strong representatives who can make a difference and bring positive change to the lives of the people on this island.”
Speaking just after the convention, Mr Hazzard added: “My phone has been ringing non-stop with well-wishers and many people who want to volunteer their time in the election.”
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