SDLP suspend MLA who left Stormont for GAA match
A Northern MLA has been suspended after leaving Stormont early to attend a GAA match.
Justin Mcnulty was disciplined by the SDLP after leaving the Assembly recall to manage Laois in their football clash with Wexford.
The Newry and Armagh MLA took over the reins at O’moore County for a second time in October.
On Saturday the Assembly was restored for the first time in two years with a new Executive formed.
Mcnulty was in attendance early in the day, but missed his party colleague Matthew O’toole being appointed Leader of the Opposition as he made the 200-mile trip to Chadwicks Wexford Park for his team’s fixture at 6pm.
BREACH
The SDLP confirmed that Mcnulty was suspended for breaching direct instructions from the party whip.
An SDLP spokesperson said the MLA left the sitting of the Assembly “without seeking permission and did not return for important parliamentary business”.
An SDLP spokesperson said: “All SDLP members were informed by the party’s Chief Whip that attendance at today’s sitting was mandatory for the duration of the Assembly proceedings.
“This was a historic day that saw the restoration of devolved government, the election of the first nationalist First Minister and Leader of the Opposition.
“People rightly expect their elected representatives to be there for work.”
Mcnulty, who won an All-ireland Senior title with his native Armagh in 2002, first managed Laois over a decade ago .
However, his second spell with Laois has raised concerns about his ability to fulfil his commitments to both roles.