THE SDLP Leader has condemned the decision by Sinn Fein and the DUP to nominate independent Unionist Claire Sugden as Justice Minister.
Ms Sugden in the MLA for east Derry and was appointed at lunch time today as Justice Minister to replace the Alliance’s David Ford.
Colum Eastwood said: “The decision taken today by Sinn Fein will have consequences that are far-reaching for the Nationalist community.
“Once again Martin McGuinness allowed the DUP to dictate that the position would not go to a Nationalist. Martin may well claim to be in control but today’s events once again show that because of Sinn Fein’s weakness the DUP call the shots.
“Sinn Fein have failed at the first hurdle to stand up for the cross community protections enshrined by D’Hondt.
“That alone should dictate the allocation of Justice Minister. But together with the DUP, Sinn Fein have allowed the corruption of this process – it happened once before and today we see it happening again.
“It is clear that under this Executive, this is a position for which no Nationalist need apply.
“It is also disturbing that even though we have had an evolution of politics in recent days – the opportunity to evolve further has been missed.
“Although on a personal level I wish Claire Sugden well, it is clear that the SDLP cannot support her nomination as Justice Minister,” added the Foyle MLA.
