THE LEADER OF Sinn Féin has called for “partnership” with unionists to help realise the party’s objective of a united Ireland.

Mary Lou McDonald said unionists must have an “equal part” in building what she described as a new Ireland.

She was attending a commemoration in Belfast yesterday to mark 106 years since the 1916 Rising.

Addressing a large crowd that assembled in Milltown Cemetery, McDonald urged unionists to “walk this journey with us”.

“To those of a unionist tradition I say sincerely, we seek partnership with you,” she said.

A future of equality and freedom belongs to you. A future of progress and change belongs to you. A future of prosperity and opportunity belongs to you.

“It is not for anybody to invite you in; that future is already yours. It is about you, it is of you, it is for you.

“British government after British government has disrespected and failed you, time and again.

“Imagine instead the liberating possibility of full freedom to make all decisions here, in a parliament here, for the people who live here.

“Instead of a government in London turning its back on you, imagine an Ireland where your place is assured and your rights are enshrined in law.”

During the commemoration, wreaths were laid for various groups, including the National Graves Association and the GAA.

This was followed by the laying of single lilies by young people.

A minute’s silence was held for those who died during the 1916 Rising, followed by a musician playing a lament.

The Proclamation was read by Roseleen Walsh.

Addressing the forthcoming Northern Ireland Assembly election, McDonald said that if Sinn Féin emerges as the largest party, it will nominate Michelle O’Neill as first minister.

She told the crowd that there is “not an office” off-limits or the “sole preserve of one group”.

“Those days are gone and good riddance,” McDonald said.

“After the votes are counted, the Sinn Fein team will go back to the Assembly ready to do business, ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work for the people.

“We want to do this in partnership with others. We will work with everyone to make politics a success.

“Democracy must prevail on terms set by the people, not by the DUP or by anyone else.

“The democratic test for the leaders of political unionism will be if they accept the will of the people.

“I hope they do. I hope they do not repeat the mistakes of the past.

“Now is the time for an Executive that is focused on delivery and the future, and which embraces the values of partnership over division.”

Meanwhile, O’Neill said Sinn Féin wants to lead governments in Northern Ireland and the Republic.

“This (Assembly) election is about the future, the next generation and what people, from whatever background or tradition, can achieve if we work together.

“When the DUP walked away from the Executive I convened a meeting of party leaders to get work done.

“The Assembly passed legislation on climate, housing, women’s rights and the cost-of-living crisis.

“This was matched by initiatives by Executive ministers, despite resistance from a Tory government.

“A full term of similar leadership could do much more.

“After May 5, Sinn Fein is committed to getting the Assembly and Executive up and running without delay.

“We want to lead, not just in the Executive but across Ireland.

“We are determined in the time ahead to lead a government in Dublin.

“We wish to unite our people and our country and with the support of citizens, that is what we will do.”