SINN FÉIN voted by a large majority at its ardfheis last night to keep its options open on coalition with either Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael after the next general election, provided the conditions are right.
An amendment submitted by the party’s ardchomhairle (executive council) stated that, “We will only contemplate entering a coalition government on the basis of a programme for government rooted in republican principles, agreed and approved by a special delegate conference.”
This amendment was passed by a large majority in a show of hands.
A previous motion, opposing coalition with Fianna Fáil only, was heavily defeated in a card vote, by 142 to 59.
Sinn Féin chairman in Dublin, Eoin O’Broin said participation in government with a “right-wing” party would entrench partition and damage Sinn Féin, alluding to the experience of Clann na Poblachta, Democratic Left and the Green Party.
However, Kerry North TD Martin Ferris, speaking in favour of the amendment, said: “The sensible thing for us to do after the next election is to come back to a conference. I have faith in you, in the ardchomhairle, and the wider republican family to make the correct decision.”
The party’s chairman in Dublin South Central, Cormac Ó Dálaigh opposed the ardchomhairle amendment, claiming it meant that “if the offer is good enough, we might take it”.
In favour of the amendment, Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD, Sinn Féin’s leader in the Dáil said: “Let us not lock ourselves out of the political debate.”
He told delegates: “It is for you, the membership of Sinn Féin, and you alone to decide.”
Senator Pearse Doherty said Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael were “a disgrace”.
Moreover, he added that Sinn Féin “would not prop up anybody unless they subscribe to our ideas and ideals”.