Statement from Taoiseach Simon Harris on Colum Eastwood’s resignation

I would like to wish Colum Eastwood well as he announces his resignation as leader of the SDLP.

Colum has served with distinction and has been a progressive, responsible and pragmatic voice on all issues, but especially the challenging ones.

As a leader he has been accessible, on the ground and close to his constituents in Derry and the issues that affected them.

During Brexit, Colum served the entire island of Ireland with distinction in Westminster with passionate, timely and informed interventions in debates that otherwise neglected the peace process. For that, we all owe Colum a debt of gratitude.

I spoke to Colum last night and was glad to hear he still has a lot more to give to politics and will continue to serve as an MP after his successor as leader is appointed.

Finally, I would also like to wish Colum’s family well and hope today’s decision means more time together.

ENDS