SDLP grandee resigns whip over FF link-up

ONE of the SDLP’s most high-profile members has resigned the party whip in protest at its partnership with Fianna Fail.

Claire Hanna is also quitting as the party’s Brexit spokesman.

The South Belfast assembly member, a vocal critic of the link-up, will remain a member of the SDLP.

Ms Hanna, seen by many as a potential future leader, believes the alignment with a traditionally conservative party is inconsistent with the SDLP’s social democratic principles.

The Fianna Fáil link-up was endorsed by a ratio of more than two to one of SDLP members who attended a party conference in Newry, Co. Down, on Saturday.

Reacting to Ms Hanna’s decision, party leader Colum Eastwood said: ‘The SDLP membership overwhelmingly voted for the party to embark on a partnership with Fianna Fáil.

‘It is with regret that we accept Claire’s resignation.’