Siobhán Fenton worked for Sinn Féin. She explains why it has not won power
Summary
Shvon Fenton discusses her book, *Alone von*, offering an insider perspective on Sinn Féin’s press office from 2020 to 2024. She details the party’s strategic shift toward mainstream politics, its complex relationship with the media, and the internal tensions of operating across the border. The episode also examines the factors behind the party’s significant electoral decline, including the mismanaged response to the Dublin riots and controversial housing policy communications.
Topics discussed
Listener survey announcement
Introduction to Shon Fenton's book 'Alone'
Fenton's background and motivation for joining Sinn Féin
Recruitment of non-traditional staff and generational views
Personal experiences of the Troubles and conflict legacy
Sinn Féin's rise to a national party status
Press office operations during the pandemic
Resetting relationships with the media
Cultural differences between North and South politics
Clientelism and voter expectations in the South
Navigating dual jurisdiction staff regulations
Challenges of cross-border political strategy
Anticipation of entering government
Working relationship with Mary Lou McDonald
Strategic shifts and policy costing
Aftermath of the Dublin riots and polling drop
Criticism of Sinn Féin's response to public safety
Housing policy controversy and Pat Sheehan's critique
Misunderstandings in focus groups and referendum rhetoric
Backlash against the gender recognition referendum
Immigration politics and North-South differences
Fenton's marginalization and party retrenchment
Electoral strategy and core vote protection
Future challenges and concluding thoughts
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