Sinn Féin Shamefully Vote To Expand Arms Factory
The decision passed after Sinn Féin councillors abstained, a move campaigners say effectively allowed the expansion of a factory that manufactures components for the F-35 fighter jet programme.
Campaigners from IPSC Mid-Ulster have condemned the Mid Ulster Planning Committee's decision to approve an extension to Moyola Precision Engineering, describing it as another example of political complicity in Israel's genocide on Gaza.
The decision passed after Sinn Féin councillors abstained, a move campaigners say effectively allowed the expansion of a factory that manufactures components for the F-35 fighter jet programme.
The F-35 has been widely criticised by Palestine solidarity groups for its role in Israel's genocide in Gaza.
During the meeting, DUP councillor Clement Cuthbertson, publicly stated he was proud of the company's partnership with Israel and hoped it would continue.
Speaking after the meeting outside Mid Ulster Council on the 8th July 2026, a representative from IPSC Mid-Ulster accused Sinn Féin of failing to match its public support for Palestine with meaningful action.
"This factory has blood on its hands," he said on behalf of the group. "Sinn Féin abstained knowing that this vote would allow its expansion."
The group highlighted that Moyola Precision Engineering receives support from Invest NI, arguing that public money is being used to back a company involved in the global F-35 supply chain. The group also criticised Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald, whose department oversees Invest NI.
The group argued that if Sinn Féin is serious about standing with Palestine, it should have opposed the planning application rather than abstaining. They also pointed to Derry and Strabane District Council's support for Palestine Action as evidence that radical political action is possible.
The group further argued that companies supplying weapons or components used by states accused of committing genocide should face legal and political opposition, and said councils should be prepared to challenge such projects rather than facilitate them.
The group also criticised the misplaced public spending priorities, arguing that government support for defence manufacturers comes while public services face chronic underfunding and environmental crises such as the deterioration of Lough Neagh remain unresolved.
The group is now calling on people to organise locally, join Palestine solidarity campaigns, and continue building pressure on elected representatives ahead of next year's council elections.
"Free Palestine," his speech concluded.
