STEVENSON BACKS ATTWOOD AS SDLP EUROPEAN CANDIDATE

Derry SDLP councillor Brenda Stevenson has welcomed the confirmation that Alex Attwood will be the SDLP’s candidate for the European election.

Mr. Attwood, the SDLP’s OFMdFM (Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister) spokesperson and Haass Talks negotiator, was endorsed at the SDLP 42nd annual conference in Armagh at the weekend.

Cllr Stevenson said the SDLP had a “strong candidate” in Attwood running for Europe.

She added: “I am really looking forward to working with Alex and we believe he can regain the SDLP seat in the European Parliament and provide a voice for local people on local issues impacted by EU policy.

“Since John Hume left the European stage, Northern Ireland has lost position and authority in Europe. The SDLP were at the centre of decision making in Europe, an influential member of the most influential group in the European Parliament – the Party of European Socialists. Northern Ireland and its people were heard in part – even in great part – because the SDLP was strong.

“Europe is having an ever greater impact on all our lives. That’s why the North needs an MEP who will be able to have an impact in Europe for us all. With the global economic down turn taking a severe toll in Northern Ireland, it is crucial that we have a strong, effective, pro-European voice in the Parliament.

“The SDLP is steadfastly for Europe; for the European Union; for enlargement; for taking full advantage of the research, innovation, farming, fishery, peace, inclusion, cross border and other funds; for our businesses accessing the vast and growing EU market; for good not unnecessary regulation.

“This is a crucial time for farming, including negotiations on CAP reform, so we need to have a strong voice in Europe to make sure our farmers get the best deal, not only to ensure the strength and security of farming and food production, but to build strong rural communities of which farmers are the backbone.

“Alex Attwood is the only candidate who can deliver for you, because the SDLP is the only major party in the North that is pro-Europe. The SDLP membership of the Party of European Socialists gives the party real influence at the very heart of Europe. The SDLP used that influence to deliver results for Northern Ireland in the past – and we will again.”

Cllr Stevenson concluded: “Alex Attwood will be a vigorous champion of your rights, hopes and ambitions for the future. A win for Alex Attwood will be a win for us all. I am looking forward to welcoming Alex to Claudy when he hits the campaign trail.”

 

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