SDLP: We Cannot Ignore The Mandate To Accept Brexit Deal

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has said it is vitally important that political leaders engage with civic groups and public sector organisations to ensure their voices are heard in the Brexit decision-making process.

It comes as Prime Minister Theresa May is set to arrive in Northern Ireland today, Tuesday 27 November, in a bid to sell her draft withdrawal agreement. She will firstly attend a community event at Queen's University Belfast to engage with students, academics, community and religious leaders from across society.

Mr Eastwood's plea follows meetings between business leaders and the DUP, who oppose the current deal, regarding the potential impact on Northern Ireland's economy.

"It has been a bizarre week in politics, with unlikely alliances forming to oppose the draft Withdraw Agreement," the SDLP Leader said.

"None of those opposed seem to offer any realistic alternative to the backstop.

"This deal leaves Northern Ireland in a unique position, allowing us to continue to trade with both the UK and EU. Importantly, it prevents a hard border and it future proofs our economy by securing the backstop.

"The SDLP are grateful to those in civic roles who have voiced their approval for this deal. Brexit is more than merely a political decision, its implications will be felt in all sections of our society and that is why it is vitally important political leaders continue to widen the discussion beyond politics."

Mr Eastwood also expressed his belief that the deal must proceed through parliament, and said his message to Theresa May will be that a no-deal Brexit will have the worst impact on Northern Ireland.

Ahead of talks with the Prime Minister at Stormont, he emphasised that his party's position is "to see this deal through Parliament".

"Despite the opposition from many quarters, it is clear it is opposed for varying reasons across the political spectrum, with no definitive or collective agreement on the next step.

"However, the people here have spoken clearly and loudly in favour of this deal; the Agri-food sector, business leaders, the border communities, the trade unions and the mandate received by people here two years ago to remain, understand the importance of this deal in protecting our economic future and banking the backstop to prevent any hard border."



(JG/CM)