SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has welcomed the draft Brexit withdrawal agreement stating it protects the social and economic interests of Northern Ireland.
Mr Eastwood commented: “No one is under the illusion that this deal is perfect, it isn’t.
“The SDLP would prefer to see no Brexit at all and if an opportunity presents to have a second referendum we will support that. But right now our priority is to bank the backstop.
“We are also mindful that unionism is feeling unnerved by the current state of play.
“Therefore, it is important to reiterate that this deal does nothing to diminish the Good Friday Agreement. Importantly, the principle of consent is enshrined in this draft deal.
“There can be no change to the constitutional position of Northern Ireland without the consent of the majority of people here,” added the Foyle MLA.
