Ireland

Sinn Féin duo disciplined over 'ongoing issues' in Dublin constituency

Noeleen Reilly has been suspended for six months
Noeleen Reilly has been suspended for six months Noeleen Reilly has been suspended for six months

TWO Sinn Féin representatives have been disciplined over "ongoing issues" in a Dublin constituency.

The party said councillor Noeleen Reilly has been suspended for six months and TD Dessie Ellis has been censured in connection with the unspecified issues in Dublin North West.

Sinn Fein national chairperson Declan Kearney said the matter was examined by the party and the Ard Chmohairle made a number of recommendations.

"Following a complaint from a fellow councillor, councillor Noeleen Reilly has been suspended from the party for six months," he said.

"With regard to complaints by councillor Noeleen Reilly about comments in the media by Dessie Ellis TD, he will be censured by the party.

"As per our party constitution, the people concerned can appeal these recommendations."

Sinn Féin has dogged by reports of internal disputes and claims of bullying within the party, which has resulted in the resignation of several councillors in recent months.

Incoming president Mary Lou McDonald has insisted such cases are "localised incidents".

Speaking following the meeting, Mr Ellis said: "I accept the decision of the Ard Chomhairle and I apologise for the comments I made in the media about councillor Reilly.

"I now want to move on to represent the people of Dublin North-West and to build the party locally."

Mr Ellis made headlines last month ago when it was revealed that he receives his full TD salary of around €90,000.

Sinn Féin had long maintained that its elected representatives only drawn down an average industrial wage, with the rest donated to party and constituency purposes.

Mr Ellis said his decision was taken due to personal financial circumstances, and that he intends to change the approach in future.

Sinn Féin has since said the average wage policy is "entirely voluntary".