O'Rourke takes part in SF-organised women's conference

Former Fianna Fáil deputy leader has been lined up to take part in a Sinn Féin conference focussing on women in politics, it was confirmed today.

As her colleague Taoiseach Bertie Ahern continued to trade blows with Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams following the Northern Bank robbery, it emerged Senator Mary O’Rourke will take part in a conference in Newry which is being held as part of Sinn Féin’s centenary celebrations.

As well as the former Irish Health and Education Minister, Sinn Féin’s other guest speakers for the conference entitled ‘Unfinished Revolution – from Beijing to Newry’ include the African National Congress’s Mavivi Myakayaka-Manzini, Rosaleen McDonnagh of the Travellers Rights Association and German Kurdish MEP Uca Felenkas.

South Down Assembly member Caitriona Ruane said the conference would celebrate the role of women in struggle around the world.

The conference, which will be opened by Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams, will feature a debate marking the 10th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration on women’s rights.