Wall of security for fine gael national conference in castlebar

THE Fine Gael party is to mount a wall of security around the Royal Theatre, Castlebar, next weekend for its national conference.

Only holders of accreditition will gain access to the conference centre and the adjoining Harlequin Hotel, it has been announced.

There is expected to be a number of peaceful protests outside the centre during the event tomorrow (Friday) evening and on Saturday.

A national protest against austerity measures introduced by the Fine Gael/Labour Party government is being organised by the Right2Water, People Before Profit Alliance and the Mayo Says No group. The protest is scheduled for Saturday, assembling at Market Square, Castlebar, at 12.30 p.m. and marching to the conference at the old Westport Road.

The People Before Profit Alliance, which sees ‘people power’ as the key to bringing change, represents a different form of politics designed for the 21st century.

Danny Coffey, a member of People Before Profit Alliance in Mayo, said: “We have all suffered from cuts to health, social welfare and other vital services. It’s time to send this government a message. End their austerity policies. Everybody is welcome to join us.”