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27/10/2009
McDonnell Confirms SDLP Leadership Bid
Veteran SDLP politician Dr Alasdair McDonnell today launched his bid for the party leadership.
The South Belfast MP and MLA has been deputy leader of the nationalist party for five years.
Dr McDonnell, a highly regarded party members, held a press conference this afternoon and officially put himself forward for the role.
Social Development Minister and South Down MLA Margaret Ritchie has already announced her aspirations to succeed Mark Durkan.
Last month Mr Durkan said he would step down as party leader, and an Assembly member, to focus on his Foyle parliamentary work.
Mr Durkan said he was no longer prepared to hold a dual mandate at Westminster and Stormont.
He has led the Social Democratic and Labour Party since 2001, succeeding Noble Peace Prize winner John Hume.
Nominations for the contest open 1 November, with a vote due to be held at the SDLP's annual conference in February.
Dr McDonnell and Ms Ritchie now seem likely to go head-to-head in the battle.
More party members are expected to vie for the deputy leader position.
(PR/BMcC)
The South Belfast MP and MLA has been deputy leader of the nationalist party for five years.
Dr McDonnell, a highly regarded party members, held a press conference this afternoon and officially put himself forward for the role.
Social Development Minister and South Down MLA Margaret Ritchie has already announced her aspirations to succeed Mark Durkan.
Last month Mr Durkan said he would step down as party leader, and an Assembly member, to focus on his Foyle parliamentary work.
Mr Durkan said he was no longer prepared to hold a dual mandate at Westminster and Stormont.
He has led the Social Democratic and Labour Party since 2001, succeeding Noble Peace Prize winner John Hume.
Nominations for the contest open 1 November, with a vote due to be held at the SDLP's annual conference in February.
Dr McDonnell and Ms Ritchie now seem likely to go head-to-head in the battle.
More party members are expected to vie for the deputy leader position.
(PR/BMcC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
