18 October 2001

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Sinn Fein Announce Murray Membership

Vincent Wood, Sinn Fein representative in Mayo, has announced that Independent County Councillor, Gerry Murray from Charlestown, who severed his links with the Fianna Fail party last month, is joining Sinn Fein.

``It is a significant development for Sinn Fein and for the on-going development of the party in the county. We are very pleased to welcome Gerry Murray to Sinn Fein and believe that it represents an important step in the growth of Sinn Fein in Mayo.'' He said.

Commenting on related media reports from some political pundits that Sinn Fein's contesting of the next election in Mayo is more about party building than taking a seat, Vincent Wood said:

``Let me make the position crystal clear. Sinn Fein believes that we can take the 5th seat in Mayo. That is the core objective in standing in this election.

``We have experienced steady growth during the past year with the development of the party and an increased membership with branches established throughout the seven electoral areas of Mayo. The addition of Councillor Gerry Murray to the team is a major development. Gerry Murray is an effective local representative. His clear commitment to the people of Charlestown is acknowledged across party lines.

``I look forward to working with Gerry Murray to build a viable alternative to the Fianna Fail and Fine Gael axis that has dominated Mayo for decades.'' Said Vincent Wood.

Ends

For further information contact Vincent Wood on 094 30811/087 2986084

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