SDLP leader Colum Eastwood has met with senior European leaders to make the case for Special Status for Northern Ireland.
“That’s why I’ve met with political leaders and Heads of State across Europe to make the case for special status for Northern Ireland.
“While the British Government has chosen platitudes over planning for the impact of Brexit on the North, other European leaders understand our unique circumstances. That will be a source of strength in the time ahead.
“European Leaders also recognise the importance of the Good Friday Agreement as an international accord.
“So I welcome the comments made by the Taoiseach in Brussels committing to including a mechanism for our reentry as full members of the European Union in the event of a United Ireland.
“That approach endorses the principle of consent which is critical to our settlement.
“The Scottish Government, the Welsh Government, the Irish Government and even the British Government have outlined their plans for Brexit.
“We are now in a position where it is extremely unlikely that we will have a government when Article 50 is triggered, against the will of people in Northern Ireland.
“The meek letter written by the former First and deputy First Ministers is utterly deficient.
“We need a government led by parties that will meet the challenges posed by Brexit.
“Those taking us to direct rule will make a critical situation a catastrophe.”
