SF ardfheis to hear of `frustration and anger'

The mood of Sinn Fein delegates attending this weekend's ardfheis in Dublin will be "in marked contrast" to the upbeat one that…

The mood of Sinn Fein delegates attending this weekend's ardfheis in Dublin will be "in marked contrast" to the upbeat one that prevailed at last year's conference, the party's vice-president, Mr Pat Doherty, has said.

Speaking at the announcement of details of the event, which will take place at the RDS, he said the political atmosphere in 1999 was one of "frustration and anger" over the pace of progress in implementing the Belfast Agreement.

"Last year republicans met at a time of great hope, optimism and expectation ... The year we have passed through has been one of broken promises and missed opportunities." The establishment of the executive and the all-Ireland council were no nearer and the peace process had been reduced to "the single issue of decommissioning".

Up to 2,000 delegates are expected to attend the ardfheis and little criticism of the leadership is expected. Motions demand an end to the "continuing act of aggression" on the Garvaghy Road; the disbandment of the RUC; and an independent inquiry into the murders of lawyers Ms Rosemary Nelson and Mr Pat Finucane.