SDLP Opposition Leader Matthew O'Toole has said the latest findings from the Covid-19 Inquiry underline what he describes as a serious failure of political leadership at Stormont.

The report, which examined how Northern Ireland's government handled the pandemic, has prompted renewed calls from the SDLP for sweeping institutional reform to ensure more effective governance in future.

Mr O'Toole said the inquiry's conclusions would be difficult for families who lost loved ones and for those who made personal sacrifices during the pandemic. He said the report pointed to key moments where political divisions hindered decision-making and weakened public health messaging. He said: "These findings will make difficult reading for the many families across Northern Ireland who lost loved ones during the Covid 19 pandemic in the most challenging circumstances imaginable, and for everyone who made personal sacrifices to keep the people around them safe.

"The inquiry makes clear that Sinn Féin and the DUP put party politics above public safety during the pandemic. Opportunities to act sooner were missed, decisions were taken along political lines, the public health message was undermined and vulnerable people paid the price.

"While the pandemic has thankfully passed, the attitudes that hampered us throughout it continue to shape our politics today. There is a clear absence of leadership at Stormont and parties are still putting their own priorities ahead of what is best for the public.

"Since the return of the institutions the SDLP Opposition has repeatedly called for a programme of reform to deliver better government and hold parties accountable for their actions. Those criticised in the inquiry can no longer bury their heads in the sand. They must accept responsibility and commit to change."