A review reveals that a former Sinn Féin press officer may have misused public money while holding multiple jobs
The review found that during a three-month period in 2020, McMonagle held two full-time jobs. He worked for Sinn Féin politicians and was also a press officer. This included working for Michelle O’Neill, who was the deputy First Minister at the time.
Assembly Chief Executive Lesley Hogg has referred the matter to the police. She started the review after the scandal broke. It turns out McMonagle was employed by Sinn Féin MP Orfhlaith Begley before he took on the role with O’Neill.
Hogg mentioned that McMonagle likely misrepresented his employment details. This could have led to a misuse of public funds. She advised Sinn Féin and the MLAs who employed him to consider their next steps.
The review showed that McMonagle had three separate contracts in just three months. It’s hard to believe he could manage all that work. The findings suggest he was drawing two full-time salaries from public funds at the same time.
Interestingly, the review noted that public health measures during the pandemic affected how employees worked. It recommended better record-keeping for party activities and employment details.
Sinn Féin’s chief whip, Sinead Ennis, welcomed the review. She believes it could improve processes and ensure public money is used properly. Meanwhile, the DUP is pushing for a discussion about the review in the Assembly.
