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The SDLP

@sdlp.bsky.social
1.6K followers 157 following 90 posts

Social Democratic & Labour Party 🕊️🌹 Progressive. Cross-community. Building a New Ireland 🤝 Be part of it ✊ 📍 Promoted by SDLP, 121 Ormeau Rd, BT7 1SH

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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 02/06/2025
Today we heard from families who tragically lost children as they were coming home from school. Their powerful testimonies and pain touched everyone in Stormont today. We're pleased that the Assembly has today backed a proposal to change the law to improve children's safety when travelling home.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 02/06/2025
Our motion to improve school bus safety has passed thanks to the courage of those who shared their stories. This was about making sure no family has to endure what they’ve been through. Grateful to the campaigners, medical professionals and parents who helped make this happen.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 01/06/2025
📢 Northern Ireland faces a choice. 🌹 An inward-looking, reactionary British state, or a new Ireland willing to reach out across the world. 🌱 What would you choose?
SDLP graphic split in two, a blue half featuring Nigel Farage and "A Farage future...", and a red half featuring Dublin and "...or a new Ireland in Europe", followed by the tagline "What would you choose?"
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 30/05/2025
Moyola councillor Denise Johnson will be the next Vice Chairperson of Mid Ulster District Council. Cllr Johnston is a politics teacher and well-known victims campaigner, has championed local causes from Lough Neagh to school safety and will take up the role on 2 June.
SDLP graphic with a headshot of Cllr Denise Johnston and the caption Mid Ulster's next Vice Chairperson, Cllr Denise Johnston.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 28/05/2025
As genocide continues in Gaza, the SDLP is calling on the UK to recognise Palestine, like Ireland, Norway, Spain and others already have. It’s not a radical step. It’s a moral one.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 27/05/2025
Peaceful protest is not a crime. And silence on Gaza is not an option. Today in the Assembly, SDLP Leader of the Opposition @otoolematthew.bsky.social called out the arrest of peaceful protesters in Belfast, while the world watches the horror unfolding in Gaza.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 22/05/2025
🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ We met with Scott and Alexa from The Rainbow Project to discuss a range of issues affecting LGBTQIA+ people including the recent Supreme Court ruling, the poor provision of trans healthcare and the impact these issues are having on trans people in Northern Ireland.
Claire Hanna MP, Matthew O'Toole MLA, Alexa Moore and Scott Cuthbertson
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 20/05/2025
The SDLP wants to build an Ireland that is welcoming to all who choose to call this place home. The DUP, however, is plumbing new depths by pushing divisive politics reminiscent of Enoch Powell. We were proud to stand today against the DUP's right-wing, populist nonsense.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 19/05/2025
This budget represents yet more drift, inaction and distraction from the Finance Minister and the Executive. Today we published our own plans for better public finances, representing real ambition for how we raise and spend money in this place.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 19/05/2025
West Belfast councillor Paul Doherty will be the next Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast. Cllr Doherty is a well-known anti-poverty campaigner and founder of the charity Foodstock, and will take up the role on June 2nd.
SDLP graphic showing Cllr Paul Doherty underneath the caption

Belfast's next Deputy Lord Mayor
Cllr Paul Doherty
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 17/05/2025
🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈 On IDAHOBIT we were proud to march for trans rights in Belfast.
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP and SDLP members at the march for trans rights.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 17/05/2025
🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️❤️ Today is International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia. When discrimination and hate against LGBTQIA+ people, particularly trans people, is on the rise here and globally it is crucial to stand against all forms of anti-LGBTQIA+ discrimination.
SDLP graphic showing a pride flag with the caption

Stand up for all LGBTQIA+ people

International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 16/05/2025
Students deserve affordable and accessible education. Sinn Féin promised young people they would not see fees rise, to go back on that commitment would be incredibly damaging.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 15/05/2025
The Balmoral Show represents the very best of Northern Ireland's vibrant agriculture producers and showcases the huge range of small food and drink businesses now thriving here. We must do more to support our farmers and small businesses in this turbulent time for global trade.
Matthew O'Toole MLA and Claire Hanna MP talking in front of some cattle.Claire Hanna MP and Daniel McCrossan MLA feeding some alpacas.Daniel McCrossan MLA and Matthew O'Toole MLA in cowboy hats.Matthew O'Toole MLA and Claire Hanna MP standing in front of heavy machinery.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025
The harm caused by excessive smartphone usage in our young people has become clear, providing a source of constant stress and anxiety. They deserve a break and limiting smartphone usage in schools is a strong first step to take.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025
Parents and campaigners have been vocal about the impact of increasing childcare costs. Last year we proposed Our Childcare Guarantee proposing to half childcare costs by 2030. The Minister must take seriously proposals aiming to fix this crisis, given this was supposed to be a day one priority.
SDLP graphic with the caption

Northern Ireland needs a better childcare settlement

Nearly half of all households (48%) said that childcare is unaffordable.

We want to fix that.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 13/05/2025
It's clear global politics is at a significant turning point. We can either choose an open, outward looking future, or one which is increasingly closed minded. We firmly believe our future belongs in a new Ireland in Europe. @clairehanna.bsky.social
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 03/05/2025
British politics is moving in a dark direction. The SDLP believes in a different path. A diverse, just and confident New Ireland that everyone can call home.
SDLP graphic showing Nigel Farage beneath the headline "A Dark Direction"

Below is a quote from SDLP Leader Claire Hanna, "Every day, we are confronted with reasons to break from the UK's narrow, isolationist path and instead build a diverse, just and confident Ireland that everyone can call home."
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 01/05/2025
Wishing all workers, everywhere, a very happy May Day. 🌹
SDLP graphic in linocut style with depictions of plants and animals and the text

Stand up for Workers

Happy May Day
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 30/04/2025
Do you feel like your area doesn't get it's fair share of jobs and investment? Sinéad McLaughlin is bringing a bill which seeks to redress the balance caused by decades of underinvestment in areas around the North. Read more here: sdlp.ie/balancing_act
SDLP graphic with scales showing Belfast City Hall and Derry Guildhall and text saying

The North West doesn't get it's fair share of investment...

Our bill would fix that.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 29/04/2025
The DUP and others say that we can't be trusted with more fiscal power, while simultaneously lamenting financial decisions taken in Westminster. They, and the Executive, continually seek and achieve power, yet refuse to take responsibility when it comes to financial decisions.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 28/04/2025
When her Executive colleagues have been spending over £220,000 on travel, it's bizarre that the First Minister can't say if she stayed in a 5 star hotel. Our public services are in ruin and it's absurd for ministers to spend public money in this way.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 07/04/2025
Our health service is at a crisis point, and the Executive is gaslighting us about how much new money is being invested. Those with power must be honest with the public on what is being funded and where the money is coming from. @colinmcgrathsdlp.bsky.social
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 01/04/2025
“Is your vision for this place limited to one part of the community?” @sineadforfoyle21.bsky.social challenged the deputy First Minister over Irish language signage at Grand Central Station. It’s in no one’s interest to create another ‘crocodile moment’. Time to focus on inclusion not distraction.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 24/03/2025
🚑 Ambulance delays outside hospitals are risking lives. Our Opposition Day motion calls for urgent action to fix the system and deliver faster, safer care. 📄 Read more in our Help Can’t Wait plan: sdlp.ie/help_cant_wait
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 11/03/2025
At Westminster @clairehanna.bsky.social and the SDLP are fighting to see workers better protected👇
Graphic is red - white writing. Image of SDLP leader and South belfast mid down MP Claire Hanna.

Reads: SDLP DRIVING GREATER PROTECTION FOR WORKERS.

The employment rights bill at westminster marks the biggest change to workers' rights in a generation.

the sdlp are actively working for change by: tabling an amendment to raise statutory maternity pay in line with the real living wage. co signing amendments to increase statutory sick pay to national living wage level and introduce paid carer's leave.

SDLP logo at bottom.

Finish.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 04/03/2025
📢 SDLP Opposition Day: Delivering for the North West The North West has waited too long for the investment it deserves. Today, the SDLP is using Opposition Day to demand action on: ✅ Job Creation & Cross-Border Growth ✅ Addiction Treatment & Recovery ✅ Infrastructure Investment
Delivering for Derry and the North West

An SDLP Opposition Day
Tuesday March 4thOne: Unlocking Economic Potential

The North West has huge opportunities in health, renewables, manufacturing and fintech, especially with dual market access. The Derry-Letterkenny corridor could be a major engine for regional growth, but it needs real investment.

The SDLP are calling for an economic task force for the North West, bringing together governments North and South to improve infrastructure, boost investment and create jobs.Two: Addiction Recovery Centre

The North West has some of the highest rates of drug and alcohol dependency in Northern Ireland. Families are left struggling, with overstretched community services and limited local options for care.

The SDLP are calling for a fully funded, purpose-built addiction treatment and recovery centre in Derry, along with a joined-up approach to mental health, housing and employment support to ensure long-term recovery.Three: North West Transport

The North West has been left behind when it comes to transport and infrastructure investment. Poor connectivity has held back economic growth, while delays, like those caused by the Mobuoy waste site, are slowing vital projects like the A6 upgrade.

The North West Transport Plan must be fully funded and delivered. We're calling for better road links, all-island rail expansion and sustainable transport solutions to boost growth and connectivity.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 03/03/2025
The Programme for Government we were presented with today is painfully shallow on detail. The Executive's PfG utterly fails to offer the clear plan people here need. The SDLP Opposition will be key in delivering accountability during the timeframe of this PfG.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 25/02/2025
At Ulster University last week, @otoolematthew.bsky.social spoke about the crisis of accountability in NI politics. You don't have time to track everything happening at Stormont. But you should be able to trust those in power to deliver. We're committed to making sure words turn into action.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 20/02/2025
Happy 90th birthday to our party president Bríd Rodgers. A trailblazer in every sense of the word, she continues to inspire and has left a lasting impact on life on this island. Thank you Bríd!
Claire Hanna, Bríd Rodgers and Colum Eastwood.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 18/02/2025
Tonight Leader of the Opposition @otoolematthew.bsky.social will be speaking at @ulsteruniversity.bsky.social on the challenge of creating a culture of accountability and improving democratic discourse in local politics. 📍 Lecture Theatre 1, BC Building 📅 6:30pm, Tuesday 18 February
Graphic with Matthew O'Toole MLA

Creating a Culture of Accountability: Lessons from a Year in Opposition

Ulster University Belfast 6:30pm, 18 February
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 17/02/2025
Ethnic cleansing in Gaza. Cutting aid to the poorest. Abandoning Ukraine. Is there nothing Trump could do to make you rethink a photo op? We won’t turn a blind eye and we won’t be at the St. Patrick's week celebrations in Washington. @otoolematthew.bsky.social
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 13/02/2025
SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan is bringing forward a Private Member’s Bill at Stormont to protect the environment. We must act to safeguard and restore our natural environment and beautiful surroundings before it's too late. Have your say on the legislation here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ENRB
SDLP Environment and Nature Restoration Bill.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 12/02/2025
Donald Trump cannot be allowed to act with impunity on Gaza. The views of the Irish people on Palestine have been heard loud and clear. We have to stand up for what's right and the SDLP will not be travelling to Washington for St Patrick's Day celebrations. @clairehanna.bsky.social
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 11/02/2025
As an Irish political party we can’t in good conscience go to Washington for St Patrick’s Day this year. Ireland has a proud history of solidarity with Palestine. The values of the SDLP are simply not compatible with what we’re seeing and hearing from Donald Trump on Gaza.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 10/02/2025
The SDLP will always fight for fair and equitable funding for the North, but the Executive must take proper responsibility for managing public finances here. @clairehanna.bsky.social
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 07/02/2025
The public consultation for Sinead McLaughlin MLA's Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill closes on 16th February. Have your say on how we rebalance the North's economy and ensure that no community is left behind: forms.gle/LQ97vrH8Mn6S...
The public consultation for Sinead McLaughlin MLA's Regional Jobs, Skills and Investment Bill closes on 16th February.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 06/02/2025
SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has said it is unbelievable that Stormont funding could have supported the building of Israeli planes which caused destruction in Gaza. Read more: www.sdlp.ie/mcglone_unbe...
SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 05/02/2025
The latest comments from Donald Trump on Gaza were chilling. Ethnic cleansing cannot be his latest distorted real estate grift. The international community must respond and defend the Palestinian people. @clairehanna.bsky.social
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 05/02/2025
The Education Minister deflected and dodged questions in the Education Committee today over the decision to give money to a new pitch at Lisneal. This is one of a worrying pattern of opacity coming from the Department regarding public appointments, and decision making.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 03/02/2025
The SDLP Opposition will be highlighting the Executive's lack of delivery in the Assembly today.
SDLP graphic saying

ONE YEAR AGO

'We are committed to standing up for our health service'

Mike Nesbitt

'The Public rightly demands that we co-operate, deliver and work together'.

Michelle O'Neill

'We must learn the lessons of the last 7 years, on health service and schools reform.'

Emma Little-Pengelly

'Addressing the childcare pressures faced by local parents and supporting a dynamic and thriving economy are all essential'

Naomi Long

TODAY

Key deadlines for water quality plans missed.

Half a million people waiting for an outpatient consultant.

New social housing starts 80% below target.

Waiting time targets consistently missed.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 03/02/2025
One year ago Stormont returned to much fanfare and positive words. Today we have seen little of that positivity translate into meaningful action.
SDLP graphic saying

The Executive One Year On...


50+ week wait for a first outpatient appointment.

£10,000+ annual cost for full-time childcare.

No Justice Strategy for re-offending.

19,000 new homes held up in planning.

Northern Irish productivity 20% less than ROI average.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 31/01/2025
SDLP councillor Paul Doherty has called out the Executive's failure to introduce an anti-poverty strategy. "How can this not be a priority for our political leaders?" Read more: www.sdlp.ie/doherty_exec...
Paul Doherty anti-poverty strategy now.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 24/01/2025
SDLP MLA Sinéad McLaughlin has secured a commitment from the Education Minister to introduce an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy by Autumn this year. Support can't come soon enough for hard pressed families and childcare providers. Read more: www.sdlp.ie/mclaughlin_c...
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP amd Sinéad McLaughlin MLA.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 21/01/2025
SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has been highlighting the risk posed by pseudomonas after 58 deaths in recent years. “Lessons must be learned and decisive action taken to ensure our hospitals remain as clean and safe as possible for all.” Read more: www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/health/...
Daniel McCrossan MLA.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 20/01/2025
SDLP Leader of the Opposition @otoolematthew.bsky.social has said continued debate around the Stormont Brake is a distraction from real issues. Parties’ focus should be on realising the opportunities presented by Northern Ireland’s unique relationship with Europe. www.sdlp.ie/o_toole_stor...
Matthew O'Toole MLA
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 14/01/2025
Our Opposition Day focusing on violence against women and girls is starting in the Assembly now. We all have a role to play in changing our society for the better. You can follow the debate here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZFW...
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 10/01/2025
SDLP Opposition Health Spokesperson @colinmcgrathsdlp.bsky.social has slammed the Executive's failure to get to grips with the crisis in our hospitals. Read more: www.irishnews.com/news/norther...
SDLP MLA Colin McGrath.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 09/01/2025
SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan has been highlighting the impact of the Executive's failure to retain the winter fuel payment. Applications for pension credit have seen a huge spike following the move. Read more: www.irishnews.com/news/norther...
SDLP West Tyrone MLA Daniel McCrossan.
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The SDLP @sdlp.bsky.social · 08/01/2025
The SDLP will be using our first Opposition Day of 2025 to focus on violence against women and girls. No woman should have to live in fear. We all have a role to play in ending this crisis.
SDLP Opposition Day on violence against women and girls.
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