12 March 2026
SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP has told Prime Minister Keir Starmer that fundamental change is needed to end ongoing dysfunction within the Executive at Stormont.
She was speaking following a meeting with SDLP Leader of the Opposition Matthew O’Toole MLA and the Prime Minister and Secretary of State Hilary Benn.
South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:
“The SDLP began today’s meeting with the Prime Minister by highlighting the disproportionate impact that renewed conflict in the Middle East and rising energy costs are having on families in Northern Ireland. We stressed the urgent need for support and pointed out that continued dysfunction within the Executive has hampered any meaningful response, with confusion over funding and a refusal to consider a package to help people dealing with soaring bills.
“This situation is the latest in a long line of failures where the Executive has refused to use the powers it already has to improve people’s lives. Our public services are under immense pressure, health and housing waiting lists are astronomical and our environment is in a desperate state. Executive parties blame the UK Government for everything while taking responsibility for nothing.
“There was also acknowledgement of the welcome improving relationship between the Irish and UK Governments and we pressed the Prime Minister on the SDLP’s reform proposals. We made clear that the two governments must now begin serious discussions about the change needed at Stormont, particularly at a time when public confidence in our institutions is at an all-time low.
“The SDLP’s vision is of a New Ireland that works for everyone who calls this island home, but in the here and now people need an Executive that delivers. We will continue pressing the UK and Irish Governments to bring forward the changes needed to make politics here work properly again, while also preparing responsibly for the future.”