Political Platform: Jemma Dolan MLA
Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan was first elected in 2017 in the constituency of Fermanagh and South Tyrone. She is Sinn Féin’s employment and workers’ rights spokesperson and sits on the committees for Finance and the Economy.
What inspired you to get into politics?
I grew up in a political house, my earliest memory of being involved in politics was Michelle Gildernew’s 2001 Westminster Election, but I never planned on becoming an elected politician. I was employed as a press officer for Sinn Féin in Fermanagh and in the European Parliament, and I was happy working behind the scenes. However, when I was approached to run, I agreed due to a strong desire to make a real difference in people’s lives. Growing up in a rural border area, I saw firsthand the challenges families and individuals face, from the lack of healthcare access to rural development. I wanted to be a voice for ordinary people and work to ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to thrive.
What has been your proudest achievement in politics?
My proudest achievements come from delivering tangible improvements for local residents; whether that is getting a school bus restored on a rural road, helping families access housing, or getting more disabled parking spaces in a car park. Being able to deliver on local issues and see the results of my work is incredibly rewarding.
Who do you admire in politics or public life?
I am inspired by everyday people. I think mothers, fathers, and carers make the world go around but also community leaders and volunteers who quietly work to improve people’s lives and their communities, often putting their own needs to the background.
It might seem cliché, but I have immense admiration for First Minister Michelle O’Neill MLA. Her personal story as a teenage mother, successfully completing her education and now leading the largest political party and our government. Her leadership reflects a steadfast commitment to equality, justice, and the needs of our communities. Michelle’s ability to champion progressive policies, and lead with both strength and compassion is remarkable, and it is a privilege to work alongside her.
What drew you to Sinn Féin?
From a young age, through my parents, I had been exposed to republicanism. Sinn Féin’s commitment to a new Ireland is my number one aim. Whilst we have come a long way, I think partition is still crippling communities and stifling our potential. Sinn Féin’s work on equality, community empowerment, and standing up for working families really resonates with me. It is about making real change on the ground, whether that is in health, education, or infrastructure, so people can see and feel the difference in their daily lives. As I said previously, whilst the big changes matter, the smaller changes are very rewarding.
What are your key priorities for Fermanagh and South Tyrone?
My priorities are rooted in tackling the challenges people face every day. Whilst budgets will always be an issue so long as we remain connected to the British Treasury, I am committed to ensuring rural areas have the infrastructure they need. Fermanagh does not have one mile of dual carriageway, never mind a motorway and I want to see that rectified. From roads to public transport, my priority is that our communities can thrive, not just survive. The A5 redevelopment is a major project that Sinn Féin is committed to delivering and I will continue to work with ministers to look at opportunities to improve the road infrastructure into Fermanagh as part of increased connectivity in the North but also across border.
Health services remain a key concern, especially access to GPs, mental health support, and support for families and carers. With the South West Acute Hospital (SWAH) in Enniskillen, we see how the uncertainty around health services affects the community. Three years of anxiety for patients, staff, and families. But we must see SWAH fully utilised as a cross-border hospital, as it was originally intended.
What are your interests outside of work?
Outside of politics, I love spending time with family and friends. When our little girl came along in 2024, my world and how I see it totally changed, so family is huge for me. I am also an avid follower of the GAA and in particular my home club of Erne Gaels who recently made history by making it to the semi-final of the Ulster GAA club championship for the first time. I think organisations like the GAA and other sporting organisations are the glue that keeps communities together, and in particular, rural areas.
