SDLP Leader Wades Into Lisbon Debate

The leader of the SDLP was in Dublin yesterday to discuss the Lisbon Treaty.

Mark Durkan (pictured) and the party's Deputy Leader Alasdair McDonnell led a party delegation to a meeting attended by other pro-Lisbon supporters including Irish government ministers.

During the event, at Buswells Hotel, Mr Durkan said that a 'Yes' vote for the Lisbon Treaty is in the "best interests of everyone in Ireland".

Alongside other 'Yes' supporters, including Dermot Ahern and fellow TDs Joe McHugh and Joe Costello, Mr Durkan said he believed that an Irish 'red light to Lisbon' could turn into a green light for a "British Tory wrecking ball in Europe".

"The stakes are much higher this time around. Despite what those who oppose the Treaty say, a 'No' vote this time is not a vote for the status quo," he said.

Mr Durkan said that the Irish people will "lose power, influence and money" in a 'No' vote scenario.

The SDLP Leader continued: "The North could lose much of the favour it has enjoyed, when our European partners are frustrated by an egregious British government and blame Irish votes for handing them such destructive vantage.

"The European experience has not just helped to fund peace; it has actually helped us to find peace.

"Our peace is in Europe and our place is in Europe."

Mr Durkan's visit south came only a day after it emerged that he intends to stand aside as SDLP party leader after the next Westminster election, which is expected around May next year.

Mr Durkan said he will defend his Foyle Westminster seat but does not believe he should continue to hold a dual mandate by also sitting in the Stormont Assembly.

(DW/BMcC)