Statement by President Higgins following stepping down of Colum Eastwood as leader of the SDLP

Date: Thu 29th Aug, 2024 | 23:51

"As President of Ireland, may I offer my best wishes to Mr. Colum Eastwood, Leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party, following his announcement that he is stepping down from his role as leader.

Colum Eastwood's contribution to public service is extensive. His leadership over the past nine years as well as his committed service to his community at every level, including as a local representative and Mayor of Derry City, as an MLA to the Northern Ireland Assembly, and later as the Member of Parliament for Foyle showed a deep commitment.

It was a significant contribution to politics and to the development of peace and reconciliation, North and South.

I wish Mr. Eastwood good health and fulfilment in the next chapters in his life."