SDLP Leader of the Opposition Matthew O'Toole MLA has accused the DUP of "plumbing new depths" and pushing divisive politics reminiscent of Enoch Powell during an Assembly debate on immigration brought forward by the DUP on Tuesday.

The SDLP Opposition tabled an amendment during the debate, calling for a refugee integration strategy to be published by September 2025.

Speaking in the Assembly, the South Belfast MLA Mr O'Toole said: "The motion brought forward by the DUP today plumbed the depths. It launched a full-scale attack on vulnerable people fleeing conflict, using language reminiscent of Enoch Powell. Of course, unionism has form here, offering Powell a platform in Northern Ireland after his exit from Westminster, before he was ultimately dispatched from politics by the SDLP." While acknowledging the public's right to question immigration management, Mr O'Toole asserted: "Of course, communities have a right to ask whether immigration is being managed properly. But the DUP motion isn't about that. Any conversation about immigration should be conducted with sensitivity, respect and humanity, qualities sorely lacking from today's DUP contribution."

He further criticised the DUP's stance, calling it a "cynical distraction." "This motion was a cynical distraction from the DUP's failures in the Executive, and a transparent attempt to fend off pressure from the TUV. Rather than engaging with real issues around immigration like the delivery of a refugee integration strategy or investment in our public services, they have instead opted for a dog whistle."

Mr O'Toole concluded by drawing parallels with wider political movements and presenting a stark choice for Northern Ireland's future. "What we saw today was a deliberate attempt to imitate the political strategy of Nigel Farage and Reform, who are gaining ground in British politics. For those of us committed to building a better future, there is a stark choice: do we continue down this dark road with Farage and the DUP, or do we offer a progressive, inclusive vision for a new Ireland."