28 May 2026
The SDLP has announced panellists for an upcoming event examining future relationships between Ireland and Britain and how we responsibly plan for constitutional change.
The Future of these Islands: Preparing for Change is taking place at The MAC in Belfast on Thursday 25th June.
Among those taking part are former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Irish Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan TD, Scottish Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Energy Stephen Gethins MSP, Plaid Cymru MP Liz Saville Roberts and Labour MP Adam Jogee.
Also taking part is Social Democrats TD Sinéad Gibney, Labour Party TD Duncan Smith, alongside former UUP councillor Linzi McLaren, Conleth Burns (More in Common) and Kwame Daniels (NorthStar).
More panelists will be confirmed in due course and the event will be hosted by former BBC Political Editor Mark Devenport.
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP will deliver an address at the event.
South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:
“At a time of great uncertainty across these islands it is important that we come together for an open and respectful discussion about how we shape the future. We learned hard lessons from Brexit about the consequences of failing to prepare for major constitutional and political change and as conversations about a New Ireland continue to grow we cannot afford to repeat those mistakes.
“This event will feature a range of panels giving representatives and activists from different backgrounds and perspectives the opportunity to outline their vision, hopes and concerns for the years ahead. We want this to be a thoughtful and constructive conversation that engages seriously with both the opportunities and challenges that constitutional change would present.
“The SDLP is committed to building a New Ireland, but if we are to create a genuinely shared and reconciled future we must bring people with us and listen respectfully to those with different views. That is why we are convening this event and we hope it will demonstrate that whatever our constitutional aspirations the best way forward is through dialogue, partnership and working together.”