Sinn Fein hopes for two MLAs

“Sinn Féin are clear,” said Mr O’Dowd. “We are asking the electorate for a mandate to go into government to deliver a progressive manifesto and to continue the job of peace building, reconciliation and transformation.

“In May 2011 Sinn Féin topped the poll in Upper Bann and in turn secured a place at the Executive table with millions of pounds of investment for schools and youth services and in turn, for the construction industry and local economy.”

Born and raised in the Parish of Tullylish, near Banbridge, John O’Dowd lives in Upper Bann with his wife and three young children.

He has been a member of Sinn Féin for almost 30 years and has been an elected representative for 19 years.

Mr O’Dowd has been Education Minister for the last five years and also served as acting deputy First Minister for a time.

He went on to appeal to local people to return two Sinn Fein representatives - himself and Catherine Seeley to the Stormont Assembly at the election on Thursday (May 5).

Catherine Seeley, who is a councillor on the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council District is a qualified teacher and has been involved in politics since her student days.

“I am now asking the electorate to elect two Sinn Féin MLAs for Upper Bann. Catherine Seeley and I are clear that if elected we will be going into government to serve the people of Upper Bann and beyond,” continued Mr O’Dowd. “There are many challenges ahead in terms of the economy, Brexit, health and jobs.

“It is a time for strong leadership and confident leadership. Sinn Féin offer both. The Executive is a cornerstone of the Good Friday Agreement, it is a power sharing Executive for good reason.

“I am proud to say I have served for this last five years in a power sharing Executive and I believe that given the mandate Catherine Seeley and I will continue to make change and secure investment, jobs and public services for the people of Upper Bann.”