SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood MP has paid tribute to Leo Varadkar’s service to Ireland following his announcement that he will step down as Taoiseach and as Leader of Fine Gael.

Colum Eastwood MP said:

“Leo Varadkar has served our country with honour and integrity throughout his time as Taoiseach.

“Having taken office at a fractious moment in the politics of our island and during a period of turbulence in the British/Irish relationship, he has undoubtedly played an important role providing encouragement and support for the North.

“During two periods of difficulty for devolution, the Taoiseach worked hard to support the restoration of the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement. Beyond warm words of encouragement, he has committed measurable resource to critical projects in the North that will bring communities closer together.

“And during the Brexit negotiations, he was a consistently strong voice for people in Northern Ireland. I recognise that not everyone will share that analysis but for the majority here who wanted to maintain our European identity, avoid the return of a hard border and bank the economic benefits of access to European markets, Leo Varadkar was a relentless ally.

“And I know that, as an LGBT+ Leader from a minority ethnic community, Leo has provided visibility and inspiration to many across our island who have not felt represented in the institutions of government before. That is undoubtedly a good thing.

“In all of my dealings with the Taoiseach, I have found him to be direct, supportive and willing to do whatever he can to support the political process in the North. I sincerely wish him and Matt the very best for the future.”