Sinn Fein is planning to use its centenary celebrations next year as the focus point of a massive all-Ireland recruitment, it emerged today.
The party is planning rallies, concerts, exhibitions and leadership tours across Ireland throughout 2005 as well as events in Britain, Europe, Australia and other parts of the world.
South Down Assembly member Ms Caitriona Ruane, a member of the party committee responsible for the celebrations, said: "This is a huge undertaking for us. The last six months have been spent preparing for the centenary celebrations.
"A programme will be launched in January which will include events like a special women's conference in Newry in February and a massive centenary celebration in Dublin's City West Hotel which holds around 2,500 people.
"There will also be concerts featuring major artistes and events on a local level such as leadership tours, exhibitions and a series of murals throughout the 32 counties.
"We are organising events in England, Scotland and Wales. Gerry Adams is going to take part in an event in Europe and we are also planning events in the Middle East, Latin America and Africa.
"The ard fheis (party conference) in March will be different to any of those we have had before. There will also be events in colleges and universities and the centenary will be the platform for a recruitment drive."
Sinn Fein was founded in 1905 by Arthur Griffith.