SDLP leader Colum Eastwood makes compromise offer on Petition of Concern
The Foyle MLA today presented his proposal to all parties and the two Governments at the all party talks meeting.
Mr Eastwood said: “It is very welcome that all parties are now working to find a resolution to the continued deadlock at Stormont.
“People want a Government and people need a government. The SDLP will continue to play an active role to get parties back to work and Stormont back working again for local people.
“That’s why today I reiterated our offer of a compromise on the petition of concern.
“I’ve asked parties and the two governments formally to consider suspension of the petition of concern while a review to reform continues.
“This will unlock the hard issues, allowing for legislation on issues such as equal marriage.
“People from across Northern Ireland will march in the streets of Belfast this weekend to demand Marriage Equality. We cannot, as political leaders, hold placards on Saturday and ignore them on Monday.
“Our compromise proposal can deal with these issues.
“People across Northern Ireland deserve better, we need to stand up, stand together and fight for them. That’s what the SDLP is committed to doing, finding a resolution and finding it quickly.
“Politicians need to get back to work,” added the SDLP leader.
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