SDLP leader Colum Eastwood
The new talks were announced this afternoon by Tanaiste Simon Coveney and British Secretary of State Karen Bradley at Stormont House in Belfast.
The talks involving the four main political parties and the two governments will take place on Tuesday, May 7, just a few days after the local council elections and before the European Parliament elections.
Speaking after the announcement was made, the Foyle MLA said: “The SDLP welcomes any dialogue aimed at restoring power sharing.
“We have already written to both governments and all party leaders outlining the urgent need to get back to government to deal with the outstanding issues but to address the emerging crises in our health service, our schools and our communities.
“We have concerns, however, that this process with no fixed deadline will simply sink back to the retrenchment of previous talks.
“We have already seen the DUP and Sinn Féin slip back into comfortable red lines that look great on placards but deliver nothing for people desperately in need.
“Both of those parties need to think again about their approach that’s more about seeking a pound of flesh than reaching agreement.
“We have reached a turning point.
“The tragic events of the last week demand a response from political leaders.
“That response cannot be limited to strong statements one day and a retreat to the trenches the next.
“People are demanding a return to partnership.
“The SDLP has put forward a bold proposal for unblocking our political process, delivering on rights and equality and filling the dangerous vacuum that now exists.
“I have had positive discussions with other parties about our plans to suspend the petition of concern and look forward to making progress in the talks.”
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