A Win For SDLP A Win For Everyone

Tuesday 28 April 2009

SDLP European Election candidate Alban Maginness today handed in his official nomination papers at the Electoral Office in Belfast ahead of the poll on June 4.

Mr Maginness was accompanied by his wife, Carmel, SDLP leader Mark Durkan MP MLA, deputy leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell MP MLA, Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie MLA, campaign director Patsy McGlone MLA, International Secretary Claire Hanna and General Secretary Gerry Cosgrove.

Speaking afterwards Mr Maginness said: "It is a tremendous honour to fight this election on behalf of the SDLP.

"This campaign will take place against a backdrop of economic crisis across the North and Europe.

"Therefore, for the SDLP this election will be about people, their needs and their priorities.

"Over the past few months I have travelled extensively across the North listening to the concerns and fears of firms and families.

"I am determined to give the strong leadership and positive leadership they so desperately crave.

"While there are significant challenges ahead of us, opportunities do exist.

"Northern Ireland needs to be at the heart of Europe again.

"For five years, the people of Northern Ireland have lost out in Europe without the SDLP which worked best for the North when the SDLP where in the European Parliament.

"It is time for us all to win again."

Mr Durkan added: "The SDLP has always been the strongest party of Europe in the North and the strongest party for the North in Europe.

"Europe and its institutions are extremely relevant to the issues that our affect our lives, namely the economy.

"Therefore, the North needs an MEP who will be relevant and effective in Europe again.

"Only Alban Maginness of the SDLP can offer a credible, pro-European choice in this election. He will pick up where John Hume left off and succeed where our current representatives have failed.

"The SDLP will put the needs of the people at the top of the agenda, bring your interests to the heart of the decision making process as members of the Party of European Socialists.

"The only candidate offering a manifesto for economic growth and financial stability for good of everyone will be Alban Maginness of the SDLP."

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Pictures available from Bill Smyth: 07720 077284

Further information:
SDLP Press Office 028 9052 1837