In her speech at the Easter Commemoration in Donagh, Sinn Féin Assembly candidate Áine Murphy told those in attendance the “division of this island has held back our true potential for far too long”.

The commemorations was held in Donagh to remember Louis Leonard, who was killed by Loyalists on December 15, 1972, with the event ending at the old graveyard where he is buried.

“We all gather here today in Donagh to remember those who fought and died for Irish freedom,” said Miss Murphy.

“To remember and honour those men and women who struck for freedom on Easter Week, 1916, and every generation that followed.

“We recommit ourselves to the cause of Irish independence, sovereignty and unity and to a 32-county Republic that is based on equality and social justice.”

Speaking of the provision for a unity referendum in the Good Friday Agreement, she continued: “There is now a real opportunity to shape a better, more prosperous, and equal future for all.

“Our island can no longer sustain two separate tax regimes, legal systems, economies, health and education systems.

“All-Ireland integration is vital for the development of public services, investment, economic development, social inclusion and diversity.

“Irish Unity benefits all of our people, North and South, by unlocking the true potential of this island.”

Miss Murphy said the chance for political, social and economic change in Ireland is “within our grasp”.

“Now is the time to build a new Ireland. An Ireland that will be a modern, progressive and fair country, that is fit for all who live here.

“I am lucky to be a part of a new generation of Republicans that will strive to achieve Irish Unity, whilst working and engaging with others in a progressive and forward-thinking manner.

“Irish Republicans in 2022 are as determined as those who have gone before us to realise the vision of the 1916 Proclamation – an independent, United Ireland and a real Republic built on the foundation stones of equality and social justice for all of its citizens.”