Politics

SDLP’s Colum Eastwood to stand for party leadership

Former Derry mayor pledges to pursue ‘a new brand of progressive nationalism’

Colum Eastwood: will challenge Alasdair McDonnell for SDLP leadership. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill
Colum Eastwood: will challenge Alasdair McDonnell for SDLP leadership. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill
Amanda Ferguson
Mon Sept 28 2015 - 22:33

Foyle MLA Colum Eastwood (32) is to challenge Alasdair McDonnell for the leadership of the SDLP.

Mr Eastwood, a former mayor of Derry, has been nominated by nine party branches. “I believe now is the time for a new generation to take forward not only the party, but the future direction of the country,” he said.

Mr Eastwood pledged to pursue “a new brand of progressive nationalism – one that is not defined by birth but based on radical and realistic proposals and policies for a better future”.

“Those of us who want to achieve a united Ireland in the future must give our all to make Northern Ireland work today,” he added.

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“As a proud nationalist, I believe deeply in a united Ireland. I want progressive nationalism to go much further on unity than the mere sloganising that, until now, has been trying to pass itself off as strategy.

“I want the SDLP to set out exactly what a new united Ireland will look like, and to set about convincing all the people of Ireland of the value of our convictions.”

Mr Eastwood, a former councillor and an MLA since 2011, said he was “hungry for change and ready to lead”.

The leader election is due to take place at the SDLP party conference in November. Mr McDonnell, Westminster MP for South Belfast, has led the SDLP for nearly four years.