McDonald tentatively calls for people to vote Yes

REFERENDUM Sinn Féin leader urges the public to use their votes

People should vote Yes in both of tomorrows referendums says Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald.

While she called for a Yes votes, her appeal was laden with criticisms of the government's approach claiming the opposition were excluded from contributing to the drafting the legislation.

She further insisted that the vote must be a "catalyst" for government to deliver "meaningful change" for people with a disability, those who need care and carers.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow's referendums Deputy McDonald said: “Tomorrow is the day when the people have their voices heard and I am urging people to come out and have your say.

"The government’s approach to these referendums was rushed and confused. They refused to allow the Opposition any input into the wording being put to the people, and it is my firm view that this was a mistake. The wording falls short of what was agreed by the Citizens Assembly and left many people in a very difficult position in relation to the referendums.

"The questions before us are about removing outdated, sexist language from the Constitution, recognising care and having a more inclusive definition of the family.

"Recognising care in the Constitution is welcome, but the government has comprehensively failed to support and resource carers and to provide enforceable rights and adequate services for people with a disability. I can fully understand and share their frustration.

"We see these changes as small steps forward and therefore on balance have advocated a yes vote. Whatever the results, this must be a catalyst for meaningful change for people with a disability, those who need care and carers, with government delivering the long overdue rights and supports that are badly needed."