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06/01/2016
SDLP's Alban Maginness Will Not Contest Assembly Election In North Belfast
SDLP MLA Alban Maginness will not contest this year's Assembly election in north Belfast, the party has confirmed.
Mr Maginness announced his retirement following 30 years in politics.
SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood said Mr Maginness has been a "pillar of honesty and decency in local politics".
Mr Eastwood said: "His work as a young barrister, helping to right egregious wrongs that had been committed against people in his community, was the mark of the man throughout his career. His early work to defend civil rights and liberties is something which has stood this society in good stead through some of our darkest times.
"Although he was never driven by the desire for self-publicity, Alban’s place in our history has been secured by his unflinching political opposition to violence and attempts to reconcile all communities in North Belfast. That never-say-die attitude was recognised when he became the first nationalist Mayor of Belfast, an honour and a political breakthrough that could have gone to no better man.
"As the Chair of the SDLP Parliamentary and Assembly Group, Alban’s counsel will be sorely missed in our day-to-day business. But I know that he will continue to be a powerful ally to the SDLP and to the people of North Belfast in the time ahead."
(CD)
Mr Maginness announced his retirement following 30 years in politics.
SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood said Mr Maginness has been a "pillar of honesty and decency in local politics".
Mr Eastwood said: "His work as a young barrister, helping to right egregious wrongs that had been committed against people in his community, was the mark of the man throughout his career. His early work to defend civil rights and liberties is something which has stood this society in good stead through some of our darkest times.
"Although he was never driven by the desire for self-publicity, Alban’s place in our history has been secured by his unflinching political opposition to violence and attempts to reconcile all communities in North Belfast. That never-say-die attitude was recognised when he became the first nationalist Mayor of Belfast, an honour and a political breakthrough that could have gone to no better man.
"As the Chair of the SDLP Parliamentary and Assembly Group, Alban’s counsel will be sorely missed in our day-to-day business. But I know that he will continue to be a powerful ally to the SDLP and to the people of North Belfast in the time ahead."
(CD)
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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.
