Sinn Fein, the political wing of the IRA, is to set up a lobbying
office in London following its victory in two Northern Ireland
constituencies in last week’s general election.
The party secured victory in West Belfast and Mid Ulster - its best
election performance for 40 years - but both its MPs, Gerry Adams and
Martin McGuinness, have refused to take up their seats at Westminster
because Sinn Fein does not recognise Britain’s right to rule in the
province.
A party spokeswoman explained that because of the MPs’ absence, a London
office was necessary to lobby on issues including the peace process, the
Northern Ireland economy and local constituency matters.
The office will be set up later this year and will probably be staffed
by two full time party members. Sinn Fein already has an office in
Washington and a presence in Brussels.
