Sinn Féin Ard Fheis 2026 in Belfast to Address Unity, Cost of Living
The 2026 Sinn Féin Ard Fheis in Belfast will feature discussions on Irish unity, rural Ireland, and a KNEECAP lyrics workshop. Sinn Féin leads polls at 26% but faces questions about stalled growth. Michelle O’Neill expects an Irish unity referendum by 2030, and the cost-of-living crisis will be a major focus.
The 2026 Sinn Féin Ard Fheis is scheduled for the International Convention and Exhibition Centre (ICC) in Belfast over the next two days. Events include a KNEECAP lyrics workshop, a discussion on rural Ireland, and a debate on a united Ireland.
Sinn Féin remains Ireland's most popular party, polling at 26% support in an Ipsos B&A poll published by The Irish Times two weeks ago. This compares to Fianna Fáil at 22% and Fine Gael at a record low of 16%. Despite leading, the party's support has plateaued from over 35% before the 2022 general election, raising questions about its inability to gain further ground amid government pressure.
Michelle O’Neill, Sinn Féin vice president and First Minister for Northern Ireland, stated this week that an Irish unity referendum by 2030 is «very conceivable» and the party has «not given up» on this timeline. The conference will also focus on the cost-of-living crisis, a key issue for the opposition. Party leader Mary Lou McDonald is expected to highlight rising costs in her live televised speech on Saturday.