Sinn Féin Westminster candidate Chris Hazzard MLA has offered his sincere thanks to the 12,186 people who voted for him in the recent parliamentary election.
He said: “Your support is greatly appreciated, as is the support of the many people across the constituency and across Ireland who worked with our election team during recent weeks and months or who privately canvassed their friends, relatives and work colleagues on my behalf. Míle buíochas.
[caption id="attachment_56405" align="aligncenter" width="540"]
Sinn Fein Westminster candidate for South Down Chris Hazzard, second right, gets a handshake for Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness on his recent visit to Downpatrick. Included are Sinn Fein Councillor Willie Clarke, Caitriona Ruane MLA and Cllr Naomi Bailie. (Photo by Jim Masson.)[/caption]
“I acknowledge and appreciate the very respectful engagements we have had with constituents of all shades of political opinion while canvassing in all areas of South Down. This is a very positive development, indicating that barriers to our shared future are being removed. Sinn Féin is greatly heartened that more areas in South Down heard our message directly on this occasion and that we were able to engage with so many of you face-to-face.
“In light of the Tories winning an overall majority, it is in the interests of the people of South Down that all parties pull together. Very important challenges face us in the time ahead. A majority Tory government is determined to continue the politics of austerity. Cuts to frontline services and decreased funding for social services will be strongly felt. A Tory-led referendum on the question of participation in the European Union will be hugely important. British withdrawal from the EU would be disastrous for the economy of Ireland, north and south. We must set our own course.
“Apathy in areas of economic and social disadvantage is a challenge faced by all who believe that politics can lead to a better society. That more than a third of eligible voters across this constituency didn’t vote in last week’s election suggests that there is a major disconnect from the political system. Migrants, who contribute so much to their new home here in South Down, as well as our emigrants, need to be given a voice. Politicians of all shades need to work together to ensure greater participation in the democratic process.
“As an MLA for South Down, you can be assured that I will stand firmly with the people here against London-centred politics and that I will work tirelessly to improve the economic and social fabric of South Down. I would welcome your support (as well as your critical engagement) in the period ahead and would remind you that our offices, elected councillors and representatives and party workers are available to address the concerns of all of the people. Bígí linn,” added Chris Hazzard.
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