McDonald urges ‘respectful, friendly’ Sinn Féin

Mary Lou McDonald has stressed the importance of a “respectful, friendly atmosphere” in Sinn Féin after officially announcing she will be standing for party president, writes Elaine Loughlin.

It comes after a number of elected representatives have either left the party or have been expelled over unacceptable behaviour, including allegations of bullying and harassment.

Both Ms McDonald and current leader Gerry Adams have always strongly denied there is a culture of bullying within the party.