Let's be honest here, the writing off of Sinn Féin is only political point-scoring and not genuine analysis. The latest opinion polls demonstrate that far from disappearing, Sinn Féin are on a secure footing in southern politics. Allegedly, as was the case in northern commentary during the '80s and early to mid-'90s Sinn Féin are not going to grow, so as a voter you would be better looking elsewhere.

Why, if this is the case, are these analysts not making the same conclusions on the Green Party or Labour, who didn't fare too well from their coalition with FG. The swing to FG wasn't a wholehearted endorsement but if you wanted rid of FF then even SF voters were voting for FG as the big parties cleverly shunned a prospect of coalition with Sinn Féin and totally diminished their relevance to the big election battle.

What demonstrates that all isn't lost is the fantastic performances Sinn Féin put in – in Donegal and other border counties – and if this is perceived as being a northern influence it is because the hinterland to the six counties knows how effective Sinn Féin are at delivering the changes people need.

At the moment they are in the market place but are not able to trade comparatively to the big established stalls but they have an assured and learned approach and in time they will be a formidable force throughout the island.

Cathal Ó Donnaile,

24 Loughrey Terrace, Droim Caoin,

Co Thir Eoghain, BT78 4SG.