3 April 2025 

SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has said that Northern Ireland’s economy must be protected from the impact of tariffs imposed by Donald Trump.

South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:

“Following the act of economic self-harm announced by Donald Trump last night, there is uncertainty. While we work through the precise implications, it’s important that people here see strong and clear political leadership that is focused on protecting them and finding solutions.

“Week by week, we are witnessing the global ripple effects of Trump’s inward-looking agenda. We learned through the bitter experience of Brexit that isolationism is not a viable strategy in an interconnected world. In the face of these damaging tariffs, the UK Government should be urgently working to deepen cooperation with Europe and build resilient economic partnerships.

“There is also concern about the knock-on effect of these measures on the Irish economy and by extension, the all-island economy. While the exemption for pharmaceutical goods is helpful, we cannot pretend that what happens in the South has no bearing on the North.

“This is a moment that demands coordinated action to shield people from the disruption these tariffs are set to cause across the US, Ireland, and beyond. The SDLP will continue to press for clarity, cooperation, and action to protect people, jobs, and businesses here in Northern Ireland.”