23 March 2026
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has paid tribute to the family of Natalie McNally following the conviction of Stephen McCullagh for her murder on Monday.
South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:
“The thoughts of everyone in the SDLP and across Northern Ireland are with the McNally family today. They have endured the most unimaginable loss and have carried themselves with strength and quiet dignity throughout, earning respect and admiration.
“To lose a child, a sister or a friend in these circumstances is beyond comprehension. While no outcome can undo what has happened, I hope that the conviction offers some measure of justice and a degree of comfort to Natalie’s family. In cases like this, it is vital that justice is both done and seen to be done.
“This comes at a time when the issue of violence against women and girls has been brought into sharp focus. This is not about one incident, but a wider societal problem that must be confronted. We need sustained action to ensure that no other family has to endure the pain and loss that the McNally family will carry for the rest of their lives.”