SDLP seeking rule-change in attempt to sidestep DUP's boycott

The DUP withdrew its ministers from the Northern Ireland Executive in February last year in protest at the post-Brexit trading arrangements it believes threaten the constitutional settlement.

The move has, since then, prevented the normal functioning of devolved government in Northern Ireland due to the failure to elect an Assembly speaker.

The SDLP is now set to propose changes to the process to elect a speaker in an attempt to sidestep the DUP's objections and restore functioning government.

A spokesperson for the party said: "SDLP Assembly Leader Matthew O’Toole will raise the party’s proposal to amend the rules governing the election of an Assembly Speaker to allow for a two thirds majority with other parties and the Secretary of State during roundtable talks.

"The move, which would still require nationalist and unionist support for a candidate for Speaker, would prevent one party abusing Stormont rules to maintain the suspension of the institutions."

Mr O'Toole said: “It appears highly likely that the DUP will continue to prioritise its cynical party-political wrecking strategy which has left people here without a functioning Assembly or Executive since last year – at least for the foreseeable future.

"The SDLP is proposing a change to the process for the election of an Assembly Speaker that will end the one-party veto that has frustrated the mandates of every other MLA and frustrated the democratic wishes of the people of Northern Ireland. A Speaker should instead be chosen by a two thirds majority of MLAs which would require support from nationalists, unionists and others. This can be achieved quickly with agreement for the UK government to legislate at pace.”

He added: “Politicians cannot stand by while our health service collapses, while public sector workers endure pay regression and while inflation hurts hard working homes across our communities. We have a moral obligation and a political mandate to address these challenges. It is time for all parties to get back to work.”