Hume urges voters to back Maginness

Monday 1 June 2009

Former SDLP Leader and MEP John Hume has today called on voters to ‘come out in strength’ for Alban Maginness in Thursday’s European election.

Mr Hume said: "I was proud to represent Northern Ireland for twenty five years in the European Parliament. I am delighted to endorse Alban Maginness as the SDLP candidate and urge people across the North to come out in strength for him in Thursday's election. Alban Maginness is an outstanding candidate and will be a first class MEP. He is a man of great integrity, who will work tirelessly for all the people.

"This election is vitally important for us all. Northern Ireland needs strong, positive representation in the European Parliament, particularly given the current global economic crisis. The SDLP is the only major party in Northern Ireland that is pro-Europe. As proud members of the Party of European Socialists, we have real influence at the very heart of Europe. We used that influence to deliver for Northern Ireland in the past - and we will again.

"It is very clear that voters want an effective voice in Europe, which will represent their interests on the issues that matter most - including jobs, farming and the environment. Alban Maginness is the only candidate in this election who can really deliver for the North in Europe. I have no doubt that the people will stand shoulder to shoulder with Alban and the SDLP on Thursday, just as they stood with me over many years."