Sinn Féin: McMonagle employment references ‘raised no concerns’

The British Heart Foundation said Mr McMonagle took up his position in September 2022 following the provision of two professional references.

The charity said neither of the references provided by the two press officers “raised a concern about his suitability for employment or referenced an ongoing police investigation or suspension from his previous employment”.

Sinn Féin described their actions as wrong and unacceptable.

According to Sinn Féin, the work references were provided three months after McMonagle was dismissed from the party while under police investigation.

“The references were not provided by or on behalf of Sinn Féin,” a party spokesperson said.

“Permission was not sought, nor would it have been given, from the party for the provision of these references or their content.”

The party said it only became aware of the references last week and launched an internal process.

“Before this process concluded, both press officers resigned from their positions and party membership with immediate effect,” the spokesperson added.

Neither Seán Mag Uidhir or Caolán McGinley have yet made comment.