Finnegan pushes for enhancement programme for Crossmaglen school

Ms Finnegan, who replaced Conor Murphy as a Sinn Féin representative at the Assembly, was speaking during a debate on an all-party motion on International Women's Day 2025.

Opening her speech, she said: “I am honoured to address the Assembly today to speak in support of this important motion, marking International Women’s Day. It is an even greater privilege to do so as my first contribution to an Assembly debate as an MLA for Newry and Armagh.”

She continued: “I acknowledge my predecessor, Conor Murphy. Conor has spent more than 40 years dedicating his life to the republican struggle, delivering real change for workers, families and communities in Newry and Armagh. I know that he will continue that great work in the Seanad, championing the cause of Irish unity.

"I am a proud south Armagh woman, and I take immense pride in representing the people of my constituency. My focus will be on delivering for workers, families and communities in areas such as education, health and access to public services. Our rural border communities have been neglected by successive British Governments, with decades of Tory austerity having left places such as south Armagh behind. I will ensure that those voices are heard louder and clearer than ever before.

"A key priority for me will be the delivery of the much-needed school enhancement programme for Gaelscoil Phádraig Naofa, i gCrois Mhic Lionnáin [St. Patrick’s Primary School, Crossmaglen].

“The school has long served our community with dedication, but it now faces significant challenges due to outdated infrastructure and inadequate facilities. I will work tirelessly so that the children and staff in Crossmaglen and in schools throughout Newry and Armagh have the opportunity to thrive in fit-for-purpose, modern school accommodation that provides safe and supportive learning environments. I will also focus my efforts on ensuring that rural schools and rural communities across Newry and Armagh remain high on the agenda. Our schools are the heart of our communities, and they must receive the support that they need to provide the best possible education for our children.”

She continued: “In my previous role as a councillor and community activist, I saw at first hand the transformative impact of strong female representation at all levels of society. Much work is needed, however, to achieve true equality.

"Equality is everyone's business. While International Women's Day is about celebrating women, it is also about recognising the need for us all, men and women, to work together to break down barriers. Gender equality is not just a women's issue but a societal issue, and it requires real commitment from us all in the Chamber and beyond.

"As we mark International Women's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that women's voices are heard, their rights are protected and their contributions are valued in every sector of our society.

"Tá mé tiomanta bheith ag troid ar son an chomhionannais do gach duine. [I am committed to the struggle for equality for everyone.]

“I am committed to an Ireland of equals — a new Ireland based on fairness, justice and opportunity for all our people on the island.”