SDLP To Vote In Support Of Windsor Framework

The SDLP's MPs will vote in support of the Windsor Framework at Westminster today, Wednesday 22 March.

The party has raised serious concerns about elements of the deal and the impact it may have on the investment prospectus provided by unique access to the EU single market and the UK internal market. However, the party decided that 'the balance of the deal, which creates a clear path toward the restoration of devolution, should be supported in the interests of people, communities and businesses in Northern Ireland'.

Speaking ahead of a vote, Colum Eastwood MP said: "The SDLP has taken time to consider the terms of the Windsor Framework, the balance it strikes between Assembly scrutiny and the potential for abusive veto, but more importantly the impact of the new arrangements on the unique economic benefits offered by dual market access.

"We continue to have serious concerns about the operation of the Stormont Brake and we will be vigilant about its implementation, including the clear limits on the operation of a veto over amended internal market law.

"But overall the Windsor Framework provides a clear path back to devolved government in Northern Ireland. With cuts to our schools and youth services, hospital waiting lists out of control, GP surgeries closing across the North and public sector workers desperately in need of a pay rise, there are more important priorities that we must address. The question now is not whether the DUP has got enough out of this deal – it's whether people in every town and city in Northern Ireland have had enough of division and deadlock.

"We now have a unique investment proposition for people in Northern Ireland but it first requires an investment of political courage."