O’Mahoney and McGuinness welcome Council Working Group on Public Swimming Pool for Dungarvan
Sinn Féin’s Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney and Conor McGuinness TD have welcomed confirmation from Waterford City and County Council that a Working Group will be established to discuss a community swimming pool in Dungarvan.The commitment comes alongside the allocation of €10,000 for sports facilities in Dungarvan and Tramore, which both representatives have welcomed as positive investment…
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McGuinness: State apology must be matched by action
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor McGuinness has said today’s formal State apology to the survivors of Bill Kenneally’s abuse must be matched by decisive action to ensure such failures can never happen again. Following the apology in the Dáil, Deputy McGuinness paid tribute to the survivors and their families, whose courage and determination led to…
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McGuinness calls for action on nitrous oxide misuse as concerns grow in Waterford
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has called on the Government to stop ignoring the growing problem of nitrous oxide misuse, saying communities are dealing with the consequences while Ministers continue to insist existing laws are sufficient. Deputy McGuinness said he recently raised the issue at a meeting of the Waterford Community Safety…
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Waterford Sinn Féin welcomes planned introduction of paid miscarriage leave
Sinn Féin TDs Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane have welcomed moves Government to approve five days of paid leave for women who experience a miscarriage, describing it as an important step forward for women and families experiencing pregnancy loss. The Waterford TDs said the announcement follows sustained campaigning by Sinn Féin Senator Nicole Ryan,…
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Social Democrats must clarify USC position ahead of Budget – Waterford Sinn Féin
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, and the party’s council group leader for Waterford, Joeanne Bailey have called on the Social Democrats to clarify their position on the Universal Social Charge (USC) ahead of the publication of parties’ alternative budgets and Budget 2027. McGuinness said the Social Democrats must clarify their policy on…
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McGuinness and Cullinane call for action as online shoppers in Waterford hit with surprise €10 charge
Sinn Féin TDs for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness TD and David Cullinane TD, have called on the Government to press the European Commission to suspend the new €3 customs charge on small parcels after many online shoppers found it is triggering an additional €7 An Post administration fee. The Waterford TDs said the result is that people ordering…
Read MoreSinn Féin Dáil motion would stop Waterford artists being ripped-off by AI – Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane
Sinn Féin TDs for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane, have demanded action to protect the livelihoods of Irish artists whose copyright is being undermined by the use of artificial intelligence. A Sinn Féin motion on this issue will be debated on Tuesday 14th July during Sinn Féin’s Private Members’ Business in the Dáil.…
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McGuinness and O’Mahoney welcome €250,000 funding boost to advance Cé Heilbhic dredging project
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor McGuinness and Sinn Féin Councillor Kate O’Mahony have welcomed Waterford City and County Council’s approval today (Thursday) of €250,000 in capital funding to begin the preparatory work needed to progress long-awaited dredging works at Cé Heilbhic and other locations within Dungarvan Bay. The funding will allow the Council to begin…
Read MoreGovernment moving goalposts again for families of children with additional needs – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has criticised the Government’s decision to bring forward the deadline for parents to notify the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) that they wish to accept a special school place, describing it as another example of families being expected to pay the price for Government failures. Deputy…
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Government’s hands-off approach to digital device costs is leaving Waterford schools behind and forcing parents to foot the bill- Conor D. McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the Government can no longer ignore the growing digital divide in schools following the publication this week of research by the University of Limerick and the ESRI, which highlighted the increasing cost being placed on families and the inadequate funding available to schools to deliver…
Read MoreEast Cork N25 progress welcome, but Waterford cannot be left behind – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has welcomed the launch of the public consultation on safety and transport improvements to the N25 between Midleton and Youghal, but said the announcement lays bare the Government’s failure to invest in the equally critical stretch of the road through County Waterford. Deputy McGuinness said the consultation…
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Time for Government to stop the gaslighting and act to prevent forced retirement of retained firefighters at 62 – Conor McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness, has called on the Government to immediately end the mandatory retirement of retained firefighters at the age of 62, accusing it of “saying one thing while doing another” on the issue. Deputy McGuinness said it was not enough for Government politicians to publicly support extending the retirement age…
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Government Should Stop Hiding Behind Brussels and Act to Save Inshore Fishing Fleet – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has called on the Government to recognise the crisis facing Ireland’s inshore fishing sector as an emergency and to pursue every available avenue, including EU State Aid derogations, to deliver urgent financial supports. Deputy McGuinness was speaking in the Dáil today after putting an Dáil Question, tabled…
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Ní féidir leis an Rialtas todhchaí na Gaeltachta a phleanáil bunaithe ar shonraí atá as dáta – McGuinness
Tá cáineadh géar déanta ag Urlabhraí Shinn Féin ar Ghnóthaí Tuaithe, Forbairt Pobail, agus An Ghaeltacht, Conor McGuinness TD, ar an dréachtpholasaí is déanaí maidir le Tithíocht Inbhuanaithe Tuaithe agus Ghaeltachta, tar éis dó teacht chun solais gur bhain na hAirí leas as sonraí daonáirimh 2016 seachas na sonraí is déanaí ó dhaonáireamh 2022 agus iad ag…
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Eight Waterford post offices have closed in less than a decade – Government must act before more communities lose vital services
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has warned that Government inaction is placing the future of post offices across Waterford at risk, revealing that eight post offices have closed across the county in less than a decade. Speaking during a Dáil debate on legislation relating to the Post Office Network Business Support Scheme,…
Read MoreFianna Fáil must explain to the people of Waterford why it is blocking preparations for Irish unity – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has challenged Waterford Fianna Fáil TD and Government Chief Whip Mary Butler to a public radio debate on Irish unity, saying she should explain to the people of Waterford why Fianna Fáil continues to oppose practical preparations for reunification while claiming to support it. Speaking after the…
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McGuinness Invites Public to Visit Sinn Féin Stand at Dungarvan Agricultural Show
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has encouraged people attending this Sunday’s Dungarvan Agricultural Show to call to the Sinn Féin stand, where he and members of the local Sinn Féin team will be available throughout the day to meet with the public and discuss the issues affecting communities across West Waterford. The show…
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Waterford TD backs call for increased funding for Men’s Sheds
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford and party spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has pledged his support for increased investment in Men’s Sheds following a meeting with representatives of the Irish Men’s Sheds Association in Leinster House. The meeting focused on the vital role Men’s Sheds play in…
Read MoreMcGuinness: Government must not leave Woodlands residents paying while awaiting public water connection
Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has called on the Government to intervene to support residents of Woodlands Estate in Portlaw, following a packed meeting of the Woodlands Residents’ Association where frustration over the estate’s longstanding water issues was clear. Deputy McGuinness attended the meeting to hear residents’ concerns firsthand. Despite being invited, no Government…
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More than 800 people back campaign to restore Grange bus stop as McGuinness and O’Mahoney take fight to the Dáil
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor McGuinness and Sinn Féin Councillor Kate O’Mahoney have welcomed the strong public response to their campaign to restore the Bus Éireann stop at Grange, confirming that more than 800 people have now signed the community petition. The petition will now be presented to the Minister for Transport, while Deputy McGuinness…
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Latest Jigsaw figures show Government is failing Waterford’s young people on mental health – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the latest figures from Jigsaw should serve as a wake-up call for Government, warning that young people are facing growing mental health challenges while services continue to struggle to meet demand. Deputy McGuinness said: “The latest figures from Jigsaw are deeply concerning. They show that…
Read MoreMcGuinness welcomes long-overdue reform to protect domestic abuse survivors seeking social housing
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness, has welcomed the introduction of the new social housing passport protocol, which will allow victims of domestic abuse to retain their place on the social housing waiting list when moving to another local authority area for safety. McGuinness said: “This is a positive and long-overdue change that Sinn…
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Government must back recognition of Port of Waterford with investment – Cullinane and McGuinness
Sinn Féin TDs for Waterford, David Cullinane and Conor D. McGuinness have welcomed the continued recognition of the Port of Waterford as a Port of National Significance in the Government’s draft revised National Ports Policy, but said the designation must now be matched by meaningful investment. David Cullinane TD said: “The Port of Waterford is…
Read MoreCullinane and McGuinness welcome commencement of 24/7 emergency cardiac care at University Hospital Waterford
Sinn Féin TDs David Cullinane and Conor McGuinness have welcomed the commencement of 24/7 emergency cardiac care at University Hospital Waterford, describing it as a landmark day for patients across the South East and a victory for years of determined public campaigning. Deputy David Cullinane said: “This is a landmark day for Waterford and the…
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Government must return to talks as Waterford SNAs overwhelmingly reject workforce plan – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has called on the Government to immediately return to meaningful negotiations as Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) in Waterford and across the state overwhelmingly rejected the Government’s proposed Workforce Development Plan. Deputy McGuinness said the result should serve as a wake-up call for Government following months of growing…
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McGuinness: Ireland’s EU Presidency must deliver for Waterford and the South East
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union presents a defining opportunity to advance balanced regional development, stand up for workers, families and rural communities, and ensure that Waterford and the South East benefit from a stronger focus on regional investment. Speaking from Dublin…
Read More“Government’s new planning rules raise more questions about language conditions for Gaeltacht housing” – McGuinness
Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor McGuinness TD has said that serious questions have been raised by the publication of new Sustainable Rural and Gaeltacht Housing Draft National Planning Statement published by the Government yesterday. The Waterford TD has called for clarification around the implementation of the 3km rule, asked for significant…
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Ceisteanna le freagairt mar gheall ar rialacha nua tithíochta agus coinníollacha teanga sa Ghaeltacht – McGuinness
Tá ráite ag Urlabhraí Ghnóthaí Tuaithe, Forbairt Pobail agus na Gaeltachta Shinn Féin, Conor McGuinness TD, go bhfuil ceisteanna tromchuiseacha ardaithe ag an Dréacht-Ráiteas Pleanála Náisiúnta nua maidir le tithíocht inbhuanaithe tuaithe agus Gaeltachta a d’fhoilsigh an Rialtas inné. Tá soiléiriú iarrtha ag an Teachta Dála ó Phort Láirge maidir le cur i bhfeidhm an riail 3 ciliméadar,…
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Long awaited Rural and Gaeltacht Planning Statement must be judged against Government delivery – Conor McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Development and an Ghaeltacht Conor D. McGuinness, has said that rural and Gaeltacht communities have waited far too long for clarity on planning policy. The Waterford TD said that the Government’s draft National Planning Statement must now be judged on whether it delivers for the people it is intended to serve. Teachta McGuinness said: “For…
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100 Jobs at Risk Unless Government Supports Dungarvan Bay Oyster Farmers, McGuinness warns
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has warned that up to 100 jobs could be at risk in Dungarvan Bay’s oyster farming sector and has called on the Government to provide urgent financial assistance to affected businesses. As Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Deputy McGuinness on Tuesday welcomed a…
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Ball in Council’s court on Dungarvan swimming pool – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the ball is now firmly in Waterford City & County Council’s court to advance plans for a public swimming pool in Dungarvan, following a series of engagements with Government on future funding opportunities. Deputy McGuinness has today written to every elected member of Waterford City…
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Urgent Action Needed to Restore Vital Transport Service for Elderly Patients in Dungarvan – McGuinness and O’Mahoney
Conor D. McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney have raised serious concerns regarding the reduction in bus services transporting elderly residents of Dungarvan to the Primary Care Centre and Community Hospital. Deputy McGuinness has written directly to Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, calling on her to urgently intervene and reverse the decision to cut the service to just three days…
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Urgent Action Needed to Restore Vital Transport Service for Elderly Patients in Dungarvan – McGuinness and O’Mahoney
Conor D. McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney have raised serious concerns regarding the reduction in bus services transporting elderly residents of Dungarvan to the Primary Care Centre and Community Hospital. Deputy McGuinness has written directly to Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, calling on her to urgently intervene and reverse the decision to cut the service to just three days…
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Urgent Action Needed to Restore Vital Transport Service for Elderly Patients in Dungarvan – McGuinness and O’Mahoney
Conor D. McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney have raised serious concerns regarding the reduction in bus services transporting elderly residents of Dungarvan to the Primary Care Centre and Community Hospital. Deputy McGuinness has written directly to Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, calling on her to urgently intervene and reverse the decision to cut the service to just three days…
Read MoreWaterford motorists still hit by insurance rip-off despite falling claims costs – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has said that the Government is allowing insurance companies to rip off people in Waterford as premiums rise despite a fall in claims costs. The Waterford TD made the comments following the publication of the latest data on motor insurance claims and premiums by the Central Bank of Ireland. Deputy…
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Waterford TD calls for government to reverse decision to reinstate state exam fees
Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has called on the Government to reverse its decision to reinstate state exam fees, warning that families across Waterford are being hit with yet another cost at a time of mounting financial pressure. The move comes as households face soaring energy bills, rising grocery costs, and increasing day to…
Read More‘Echoes of darker times in our history’ – McGuinness raises Lismore land dispute in Dáil
Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has criticised the Government’s failure to act on behalf of hill sheep farmers in the Knockmealdown Mountains, following what he described as a wholly inadequate response from the Minister for Agriculture in the Dáil. Deputy McGuinness said he raised the issue directly with the Minister, highlighting the severe pressure…
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Waterford’s Sinn Féin TDs demand urgent action as diesel prices surge
Sinn Féin TDs for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane have called on the government to take immediate action to protect households, farmers, and small businesses as diesel prices surge following the US-Israeli attacks on Iran. Deputies McGuinness and Cullinane said families and workers across Waterford are already struggling with the cost of living…
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Government ‘must get real’ as 8 post offices close in Waterford – Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane
Sinn Féin TDs Conor D. McGuinness and David Cullinane have said Government must ‘get real’ as eight post offices in County Waterford have closed over the past decade, as new figures confirm that 257 post offices across the state have shut their doors during the same period. The figures were obtained by Deputy Cullinane in…
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Route inclusion welcome, but NTA must ensure 2026 start date for Portlaw Kilmacthomas bus service – McGuinness and Burke
Sinn Féin representatives Conor D. McGuinness and Cllr. Catherine Burke have received confirmation that the Carrick on Suir Portlaw Kilmacthomas Lemybrien Dungarvan bus route has been included on the NTA’s rollout plans, and that Mahon Bridge is to be included on the route. They cautioned that while inclusion on the 2026 list is welcome following…
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Government decision to scrap energy credits leaves 320,000 homes unable to pay their electricity bills – McGuinness and Cullinane
The two Sinn Féin TDs for Waterford have slammed the government’s decision to scrap energy credits which has left almost 320,000 homes unable to pay their electricity bills. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness said the number of households who cannot pay their electricity bills is rising at an alarming rate, with Deputy David Cullinane adding that…
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Government must fast-track Waterford Rail line as passenger levels increases by 11% – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness has said that a sharp increase in passenger numbers on the Waterford to Dublin rail line strengthens the case for urgent Government investment in faster and more frequent services. Figures released to Deputy McGuinness by Iarnród Éireann, following a parliamentary question to the Minister for Transport, show…
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Workers and communities paying for Government failure on Remote Work – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness has said workers and communities are paying the price for Government failure to properly legislate for remote working and modernise employment rights. Speaking in the Dáil as Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Teachta McGuinness said the Government’s continued failure to strengthen…
Read MoreWaterford Ministers must pick a side this week as SNA crisis comes before Dáil – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness has said that Waterford’s two Government Ministers must pick a side this week as the escalating SNA crisis comes before the Dáil, with Sinn Féin tabling a motion to protect supports and an online public meeting taking (Monday)place tonight to hear directly from parents and Special Needs…
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Waterford rents rising faster than State average as government punishes renters – Conor McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the latest RTB figures expose the government’s complete failure to protect renters, with Waterford experiencing sharper rent inflation than the State average. While national rents rose by 5% over the past year, rents for new tenancies in Waterford surged by 7.6%, driving the average rent…
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Cummins and Butler must back Sinn Féin proposal to reject Mercosur – Conor McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford and the party’s spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor McGuinness, has called on the government to stand up for Irish farmers and support Sinn Féin’s motion tonight opposing the Mercosur Trade Agreement. In a direct challenge to Waterford’s two government-supporting TDs, John Cummins and Mary Butler,…
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McGuinness raises road safety and accessibility concerns over Kilmacthomas Active Travel works
Conor McGuinness TD has said that serious concerns raised by residents and local businesses about the Active Travel scheme at The Square in Kilmacthomas must be addressed urgently by Waterford City and County Council. Deputy McGuinness said the works, now nearing completion, have generated significant unease in the village due to the loss of parking…
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Government negligence putting Coast Guard air crew safety at risk – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor D. McGuinness has said the Government and the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) have serious questions to answer following reports that Coast Guard helicopter crews are being subjected to unsafe working-hour arrangements that could put lives at risk. Deputy McGuinness, who chairs the Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs…
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Government’s new housing plan must prioritise ending homelessness by 2030 – McGuinness
Speaking after the Raise the Roof rally held in Waterford over the weekend, Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said that the government’s forthcoming housing plan must prioritise ending homelessness by 2030 — and that real delivery requires proper resourcing of local authorities and urgent investment in infrastructure across both urban and…
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McGuinness and O’Mahoney raise concerns over crime and anti-social behaviour in Dungarvan.
Sinn Féin’s Conor McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney have expressed serious concern over a worrying increase of serious incidents occurring in Dungarvan. As a result, they have sought a meeting with the Chief Superintendent and the Superintendent. Speaking today, Deputy McGuinness said: “We have been contacted by a growing number of constituents in recent…
Read MoreShock and anger as Bus Éireann stop removed in Grange — McGuinness and O’Mahoney call for urgent intervention
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford Conor McGuinness and local Sinn Féin Councillor Kate O’Mahoney have expressed serious concern at confirmation that Bus Éireann will remove its stops at Grange and Piltown Cross from 31 October — describing the move as a “significant blow to rural connectivity and another example of how State agencies are leaving…
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Government wearing parents down by forcing them to fight for their children’s rights – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has accused the Government of “wearing parents down” by forcing them to fight for their children’s basic right to education and essential supports. In an impassioned Dáil speech on special education Deputy McGuinness said the Government’s ongoing failure to plan and deliver suitable school places for children…
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Time to follow announcements with action on mental health – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness, has said that while the recent announcement of a new Jigsaw Youth Mental Health Service for the South East is welcome, Budget 2026 once again shows the government’s alarming lack of commitment to real delivery on mental health. Speaking today, Teachta McGuinness said: “The announcement of a Jigsaw…
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Government must show leadership and support communities to tackle racism – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford and spokesperson on Community Development, Conor D. McGuinness, has said that migrant communities must be welcomed and valued for their contribution to Irish society. He was speaking during a Dáil debate on migration, where he expressed his solidarity with migrant communities, hit out at the growing trend of xenophobia and…
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Speech: Onam 2025 celebration in Dungarvan
Speech delivered at the Dungarvan Malayali Association Onam festival held on 6th September Namaskaram! I am honoured to join you for this Onam celebration here in Dungarvan. I am grateful for your invitation, and very glad to be included in such a special festival. Kerala and Ireland may be small on the map, but both…
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Assault of Irish Citizen and Repression of anti-genocide protests in Germany
Prompted by the violent assault by German police of an Irish citizen and peaceful anti-genocide protestor, I have written the following letter to Mr. David Gill, Ambassador to Ireland of the German Federal Republic. Dear Ambassador, I write as an elected representative and as someone with longstanding personal connections to Germany, and with deep respect…
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Pioneering filmmaker and Tramore native George Morrison has died aged 102
Conor D. McGuinness TD has paid tribute to legendary documentary filmmaker George Morrison, who has died at the age of 102. A native of Tramore, Mr Morrison passed away peacefully. He was the oldest person ever to receive a civic honour from Waterford City and County Council, having been nominated by McGuinness last year. “George…
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Sinn Féin Encourages Waterford Farmers to Apply for Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness and Sinn Féin Councillor for the Lismore LEA, Donnchadh Mulcahy, are urging local farmers and landowners to take advantage of the Traditional Farm Buildings Grant Scheme, which offers funding to conserve and repair traditional farm buildings and related structures like walls, yards and pillars. This follows news that…
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Waterford to host 2026 GAA World Games – a homecoming for our national games and a huge honour for the county
The confirmation that Waterford will host the 2026 GAA World Games has been warmly welcomed by Sinn Féin TD for Waterford and party spokesperson on Community Development, Conor D. McGuinness. Speaking today, Deputy McGuinness said the decision represents a vote of confidence in the strength of Gaelic games in Waterford, the power of community sport,…
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Meath na Gaeilge i nGaeltachtaí Beaga le Feiscint go Soiléir i bhFigiúirí Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge is Déanaí
Tá urlabhraí Gaeltachta Shinn Féin, Conor McGuinness TD, ag cáineadh laghdú suntasach i maoiniú Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge do ceantracha Gaeltacha beaga i gContae Phort Láirge, an Mhí, agus Corcaigh, de réir figiúirí a rising an Roinn i bhfreagra ar a cheist Pharlaiminte. Ós na príomhfhigiúirí, feictear go soiléir an laghdú ar fhoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge atá…
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Government must call out complicity of international ‘partners’ and take real action on Gaza
Germany called out for ‘entrenched support’ of Israel’s genocide Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the Government’s failure to name and challenge the actions of so-called international “partners” is both a moral and political failure. Speaking recently in the Dáil, McGuinness called out Germany for its complicity in the horrific crimes…
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Portlaw and Kilmacthomas left waiting – Sinn Féin demand action on Local Link
Sinn Féin has said that the long-overdue Local Link service connecting Portlaw and Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan must be delivered — and that with political will and proper planning, it can be achieved. Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness and Councillor Catherine Burke have long campaigned for improved rural transport across the Comeragh area. Together, they…
Read MoreLong-overdue progress at St. John’s – but children still face uncertainty in September
[Parliamentary Question and response below] Progress is finally being made on long-awaited new classrooms for St. John’s Special School in Dungarvan — but serious concerns remain about the timeline and the failure by Government to have appropriate places ready for children by September, according to Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness. Speaking after receiving a written…
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McGuinness praises Waterford Pride groups in Dáil speech
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has paid tribute to local LGBTQ+ groups across the city and county in a Dáil speech marking Pride, highlighting the importance of visibility, equality and support for rural LGBTQ+ people. “Pride is about equality, solidarity and community — and as an Irish republican, these principles are fundamental to…
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Waterford families left in energy debt as Government cuts costs for data centres
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has slammed the Government as the number of households in energy arrears reaches a record-breaking 301,379 – the highest level ever recorded. The Waterford TD said the figures reflect a deepening crisis for ordinary families, including here in Waterford, where households of all sizes and types are…
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Communities once again overlooked in Government’s NDP Review
The Government’s revised National Development Plan (NDP) has failed to prioritise community infrastructure or to provide underpinning for social inclusion and community development, Sinn Féin has said. The party’s spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, said the review offers “no new ambition and little clarity on how or…
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Government must act on cost-of-living crisis as 22% report deprivation – McGuinness says Waterford families being abandoned
The latest ESRI report showing that over one in five people in Ireland are experiencing deprivation is a stark reminder of the real cost of government inaction — and Waterford is no exception. That’s according to Conor D. McGuinness TD, who said the government can no longer ignore the urgent need for a cost-of-living support…
Read MoreMcGuinness Warns Waterford’s Pharma Sector at Risk as US Tariffs Loom – Government Inaction Must End
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has warned that jobs and investment in Waterford’s pharmaceutical sector face a serious risk from new EU-US trade arrangements, as details of the deal remain in short supply and a 15% tariff is now being imposed on EU exports to the US. While the exact scale of the…
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Fisheries and coastal communities left behind again in Government’s NDP Review
Sinn Féin has said that the Government’s review of the National Development Plan (NDP) offers little reassurance to fishing communities or the wider maritime sector, with no clear investment strategy for harbours, ports, seafood production, or coastal development. The party’s spokesperson on Fisheries and the Marine, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, said: “This review represents another…
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Neamhaird á déanamh ar Mhuintir na nGaeltachta in Athbhreithniú an Rialtais ar an bPlean Forbartha Náisiúnta
Ní luaitear an Ghaeltacht fiú uair amháin in athbhreithniú an Rialtais ar an bPlean Forbartha Náisiúnta (PFN) nó an NDP i mBéarla — easnamh suntasach a léiríonn an fhaillí leanúnach atá á déanamh ar phobail na Gaeilge i bpleanáil chaipitil náisiúnta. Ag labhairt ar an ábhar, dúirt urlabhraí Shinn Féin ar Chúrsaí Tuaithe, Forbairt Pobail…
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‘Rural Ireland’s needs go unanswered’ in Government’s NDP review – McGuinness
The Government’s updated National Development Plan offers no clear vision for rural Ireland — no targeted funding, no project pipeline, and no commitment to addressing the everyday infrastructure deficits facing rural communities. That’s according to Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness, who said the review “picks up where the anti-rural National Planning Framework left off,…
Read MoreMinister must clarify how many times Waterford Jigsaw application has been turned down – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor McGuinness, has said confusion over funding applications for a Jigsaw mental health service for Waterford highlights a wider pattern of failure by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael in Government. Jigsaw provides early-intervention youth mental health support. Waterford is the only city in the state — and the entire South…
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Shocking that Ireland’s national anthem not part of curriculum – Conor D. McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has slammed the Government’s failure to include Amhrán na bhFiann anywhere in the national curriculum, describing it as “shameful, outrageous, and a clear sign of how little respect this Government has for Ireland’s republican heritage.” In response to Deputy McGuinness’…
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Waterford and South East left at ‘bottom of the pile’ when it comes to Government TU funding
Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has hit out at continued Government neglect of Waterford and the South East and ongoing inequality for the region when it comes to funding for Technical Universities. The Waterford TD received information that shows SETU is firmly at the bottom of the list in terms of capital funding for…
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€1000 student fee hike a slap in the face for Waterford families as Government fails to answer multiple choice question – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said the government’s refusal to provide clarity on student fees – and its plans to hike them by €1,000 – is a slap in the face for families across Waterford already struggling with the cost-of-living crisis. He said the government’s silence shows how out of touch…
Read MoreMcGuinness tells Cummins: ‘Tidy-up Bill’ is no answer to deepening housing crisis
The Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2025 will not solve the housing crisis and the Government knows it, according to Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness. Speaking across the chamber to Minister of State John Cummins during this week’s Dáil debate, McGuinness said: “We’re in the middle of a deepening housing emergency — house prices, rents…
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McGuinness challenges Taoiseach over looming school strike as Government refuses to talk.
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has directly challenged the Taoiseach in the Dáil over the Government’s failure to engage with school secretaries and caretakers – warning that strike action now looms as a result of continued inaction. Speaking across the chamber, Deputy McGuinness demanded immediate intervention to prevent an indefinite strike in 2,000…
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Sinn Féin motion calls for student fees to be cut as first step in abolishing them – McGuinness
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has branded government plans to hike college fees by €1,000 in a cost of living crisis a ‘betrayal’ students and parents won’t forget. He called on Waterford’s two Government TDs Mary Butler and John Cummins to side with Waterford families and students in opposing this move. He was…
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New Local Link Service Hits the Road in Ballyduff Upper
The new Local Link service for Ballyduff Upper officially began this morning, marking a major win for rural transport and community inclusion in West Waterford. The expanded Route 363 service, which now includes regular stops in Ballyduff, is the result of sustained community campaigning, backed by Sinn Féin representatives Conor D. McGuinness TD and Cllr…
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McGuinness welcomes Tallow Men’s Shed on official visit to Leinster House
Members of the Tallow Men’s Shed were welcomed to Leinster House this week by Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness. The group met with a number of TDs and Senators and were given a full tour of the historic building, including a visit to the Dáil chamber where they observed parliamentary proceedings from the public gallery.…
Read MoreStatement from Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness regarding Waterford Airport
“This is disappointing but not surprising. Yesterday’s so-called crunch meeting with the Minister for Transport was just more stalling – another attempt to kick the Waterford Airport project to touch. “Earlier this week I wrote to the Minister and yesterday I spoke to him – making it clear that anything less than full commitment to…
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Young Waterford activists bring their voice to Leinster House
A group of young people from the Waterford-based SLÍ – Sustainable Living Initiative – visited Leinster House this week to meet with TDs and Senators, observe parliamentary proceedings, and participate in a dedicated policy roundtable on the climate and environment. The visit was hosted by Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness, who arranged a…
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Government must deliver long-promised neurorehabilitation team for Waterford and wider South East – McGuinness
Families across the South East are being left without access to basic neurorehabilitation care due to continued Government failure to fund the specialist community team promised for the region. A new report launched this week by the Neurological Alliance of Ireland shows that 37% of patients in the South East have never had access to…
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Waterford’s rural housing crisis exposes Government neglect – McGuinness and Cummins clash over Government’s housing failure
Speaking in the Dáil this week, Waterford TD and Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs Conor D. McGuinness slammed the Government’s ongoing failure to deliver homes in rural Ireland, citing a recent case in Lismore where over 36 planned homes have been blocked due to inadequate water infrastructure. Addressing Minister of State for Planning and…
Read More‘Ballyduff’s long wait is over’ as Local Link connection confirmed – McGuinness & Mulcahy
The long-awaited improvement to the Local Link 363 Dungarvan–Tallow service has been confirmed, following sustained campaigning by Sinn Féin’s Conor D. McGuinness TD and Cllr Donnchadh Mulcahy. The route is a critical link for Ballyduff Upper, connecting it to key towns and onward destinations. Conor D. McGuinness TD, who is Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural…
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No plan, no timeline, no delivery – Government continues to stall on 24/7 cardiac care at UHW
McGuinness challenges Taoiseach on lack or urgency during Dáil Leaders Questions Almost ten years after standing outside University Hospital Waterford with a billboard promising 24/7 cardia care, Government is still failing to deliver this core demand for the people of Waterford and the South East. Speaking in the Dáil today, Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness said…
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Government delay leaves key housing projects in Waterford at a standstill – McGuinness
Conor D. McGuinness, Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, has sharply criticised the Government for failing to advance critical housing projects across the county, pointing to long-running delays in An Sean Phobal, Dungarvan, and Ardmore as evidence of “a total absence of urgency or political commitment from Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.” Deputy McGuinness said the…
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‘No Wrong Door’ Principle Must Be Enshrined in New Mental Health Laws
The Government’s refusal to accept Sinn Féin proposals to guarantee access to mental health services regardless of diagnosis or background has been sharply criticised following this week’s Dáil debate on the Mental Health Bill. Speaking during the committee stage of the Bill, Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness said: “The principle of no wrong door must…
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McGuinness challenges Taoiseach in Dáil over Special Education Failures in Waterford
Waterford Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness has directly challenged the Taoiseach in the Dáil over what he described as “chronic delays, dysfunction, and indifference” in the delivery of special education supports across Waterford — warning that unless urgent action is taken, schools will be left without essential spaces when the new term begins in…
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Waterford TD launches major national Fisheries and Seafood Survey – highlighting systemic crisis in the Irish fishing and seafood industry
Waterford TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs, Conor McGuinness TD today published the results of Sinn Féin’s comprehensive Fisheries and Seafood survey, alongside Sinn Féin spokesperson on Fisheries and the Marine, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD. The survey results highlight the severe challenges and systemic crisis facing the industry, with respondents underlining…
Read MoreFamily resource centres are Ireland’s community backbone, Government must invest – Conor D. McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Community Development, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has called on the government to deliver urgent and sustained investment in Ireland’s family resource centre (FRC) network, describing the centres as “the backbone of our communities” and warning that current levels of funding fall far short of what’s required. Deputy McGuinness made the comments…
Read MoreRural isolation is driving a mental health crisis; Government must deliver joined-up strategy – Conor D. McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has told the Dáil that rural isolation is having a profound impact on the mental health and wellbeing of older people, and has called for a coordinated, government-wide strategy to respond. Teachta McGuinness said: “This is an issue very close…
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McGuinness: Dungarvan and West Waterford must get its own Family Resource Centre
Waterford TD Conor D. McGuinness has reiterated his call for a Family Resource Centre to be established in Dungarvan, following a meeting today with South East representatives of the Family Resource Centre National Forum. Deputy McGuinness has led a campaign for a Family Resource Centre to serve the Dungarvan and West Waterford area, publishing a…
Read MoreHOUSING CRISIS GRIPPING RURAL WATERFORD RAISED IN DÁIL
Government failure to act on rural housing is hollowing out communities – McGuinness Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has said that the Government is presiding over the managed decline of rural Ireland, with the housing crisis driving young people out of coastal and rural communities across the county. Raising the issue in…
Read MoreStaffing in Waterford public dental services has halved since 2022, with no full-time senior dentist in post.
Figures released by the HSE to Sinn Féin TD Conor D. McGuinness confirm that staffing levels for children’s dental and orthodontic services in Waterford have halved over the past three years — falling from 2.8 whole-time equivalent (WTE) staff in 2022 to just 1.4 WTE in 2025. Conor D. McGuinness TD received the data in…
Read MoreGovernment failure to act on rural housing is hollowing out communities – Conor McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has said that the government is presiding over the managed decline of rural and Gaeltacht communities due to its ongoing failure to tackle the rural housing crisis. Speaking in the Dáil, where he raised the issue with the Minister for Community…
Read MoreRents ‘Out of Control’ in Co. Waterford – Conor McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney Call for Immediate Action
Local Sinn Féin representatives, Conor McGuinness TD and Cllr. Kate O’Mahoney have renewed calls for stronger tenant protections and real action on housing after the latest Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) report revealed soaring rents across County Waterford. According to the report, the standardised average rent for new tenancies in Waterford in Q4 2024 was €1,211, while the…
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Government must act now to sustain Waterford’s post office network – McGuinness
The Government must urgently commit to strategic investment in the post office network to ensure its long-term viability, particularly in rural communities across County Waterford. That’s according to Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, who is the party’s spokesperson on Community Development, Rural Affairs and the Gaeltacht. Deputy McGuinness was speaking after attending…
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Waterford airport passed over for funding again – Cummins and Butler must call a halt to “calculated neglect” – McGuinness
Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, Conor D. McGuinness, has sharply criticised the Government’s latest decision to exclude Waterford Airport from regional airport funding allocations — describing it as a “calculated and ongoing neglect of Waterford and the South East” — and has called on Government Ministers John Cummins and Mary Butler to “stop covering for this blatant disregard”…
Read MoreGovernment’s planning framework offers nothing on community development – Conor D. McGuinness TD
Sinn Féin spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D. McGuinness TD, has sharply criticised the Government’s revised National Planning Framework, accusing it of abandoning communities and offering nothing meaningful to tackle poverty, social exclusion or the ongoing crisis in local development. Deputy McGuinness said the plan was devoid of vision and…
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Conor D. McGuinness TD 