DURING a Party of European Socialists’ Presidency meeting in Paris, the SDLP leader Colum Eastwood gave a powerful speech requesting a special dispensation for Northern Ireland in the wake of the EU Referendum vote.
As the only leader speaking for the ‘56%’, Mr Eastwood further advanced the campaign to protect our place in the European Union by inviting the assembled European leaders and Heads of State to the North.
“During last night’s meeting, I spoke quite candidly to the heads of state and leaders of Europe about the need for a special dispensation which would not only reflect the will of the people of Northern Ireland, but also meets our specific needs.
“The fact remains the majority of people in the north voted to remain in the EU and our democratic will must be respected and upheld.
“My party is leading the campaign to protect our place in the EU and we will work along a progressive axis with those of influence in Europe to ensure that as negotiations get underway, they do so in our favour.
“I explained that following my talks over recent days with An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, Michael Martin and Brendan Howlin, we were speaking with one voice when we said there was an imperative need to ensure no new border is established across the island. We have an emerging consensus to defend the Irish national interest.
“My fellow PES Leaders understand the unique nature of our position, and the implications for the entire island of Ireland. I look forward to welcoming them to Northern Ireland and continuing to advance our cause and defend our interests.”
