Ó'Caoláin urges change in Govt direction

Responding to the election this morning of Brian Cowen as the leader of the Fianna Fáil party, Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó'Caoláin has urged a new direction in Government policy.

He encouraged the new Fianna Fáil leader to inject renewed energy into the all-Ireland political process and to work with all parties to promote and prepare for Irish unity.

Ó'Caoláin said: "I congratulate Brian Cowen on his appointment this morning as the new leader of Fianna Fáil. His appointment should offer the Irish people a fresh opportunity for a new direction in Government policy.

" We need a change in direction in the Government’s social and economic policy. Such change must include the delivery of a truly equitable health service, the prioritisation of education and other public services and abandoning the privatisation agenda."