Sinn Féin must develop new policies to connect with voters, the party said today.
The party is holding a conference in Dublin in a bid to plot a new way forward in Irish politics.
The one-day event, entitled Engaging Modern Ireland, comes after the party's disappointing performance in May's General Election.
The party lost one of its five Dáil seats despite predictions it could double the tally.
New Senator Pearse Doherty said the party needed to reach out and engage with communities and constituencies across Ireland.
"Our core principles remain the same - we are working for Irish re-unification, equality and justice. But we need to make sure that we also have policies that will deliver on these principles," he said.
Issues addressed at today's conference at Griffith College focused on economic development, community safety and policing, climate change and immigrant communities.
Speakers included senior Sinn Féin politicians as well as Northern Ireland Policing Ombudsman Al Hutchinson, Siptu official Michael Halpenny and Intertrade Ireland chief Liam Nellis.
Party president Gerry Adams delivered a keynote address to delegates.
Other guest speakers include African Women's Network chairperson Salome Mbugua and Siptu Polish official Kazik Anhalt.