Sinn Féin Councillor Clashes with Far-Right Group in Cavan

Written By Aaron Joyce

A significant confrontation occurred last night in Drumalee, County Cavan, as Sinn Féin Councillor Stiofán Conaty led a direct challenge against an event hosted at The Orchard Bar.

Councillor Conaty, an elected representative for the Bailieborough-Cootehill area, took to social media to confirm the incident, stating that he and other party members "tackled head on" what he described as a "Zionist, neo-Nazi event" being held behind closed doors.

The Incident at Drumalee

The confrontation marks an escalation in tensions within the region. According to Conaty, the gathering involved individuals he identified as "fascists," specifically referencing links to far-right Belarusian elements.

  • The Proclaim: "No fascism allowed i gContae an Chabháin (in County Cavan)," Conaty posted, adding, "Is fuath linn na Faisistí" (We hate the Fascists).

  • The Stance: The Sinn Féin representative stated that his presence was a necessary stand against the spread of extremist ideologies in local community spaces.

  • Location: The Orchard Bar in Drumalee has become the center of the controversy, though the establishment has not yet issued a formal response regarding the nature of the private booking.

Escalating Political Tensions

This clash comes at a time of heightened political volatility in Ireland. Just this morning, national polling revealed Sinn Féin leading as the most popular party (24%), while the government coalition partners have seen their support fracture.

Sinn Féin has increasingly positioned its local representatives as a "front line" against far-right movements that have been targeting local housing schemes and community centers across the border region.

Regional Impact: Cavan & Ulster

The incident in Drumalee has sparked a wave of reaction across the Ulster scan:

  • Garda Response: Local authorities are reportedly monitoring the fallout of the confrontation to ensure no further public order incidents occur in the Drumalee area.

  • Community Reaction: Local residents in Cavan Town and Drumalee expressed shock on social media as videos of the verbal exchange began to circulate.

"Sinn Féin tackled them head on. Saoirse don Phailistín." — Cllr Stiofán Conaty

Aaron Joyce - LTT Media - 25/01/2026

Cllr Stiofan Conaty - Co Cavan

Aaron Joyce
Previous

Man in His 30s Rushed to Hospital After Stabbing in Limerick
Next

Global Markets Plunge as Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Fears Rattle Investors