SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has welcomed An Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s announcement that a referendum on Presidential voting rights for Irish citizens in the North and across the world will take place.
Mr Eastwood said that the role of President is about representing not just the state, but the Irish people, and that citizens in the North should have a voice in choosing that person.
It means around 1 million extra people will be able to vote.
He said: “The announcement by An Taoiseach is an important step in recognising the immense contribution that Irish citizens and communities across the world make to our island.
“The voice of An Uachtarán speaks for far more than the state, it is the voice of the Irish people. It is fitting that Irish voices from across the world, whether they’re in Boston or Belfast, Dublin or Dubai, should have an equal stake in who holds that office.
“The story of this island and of the Irish people is one of travel and traversing the world.
“Integrating and influencing communities across the globe. But like no other people, Irish citizens remember their roots.
“It would be a powerful statement of acceptance for our global diaspora if they were granted a vote.
“And it would be a significant endorsement of the principle of self determination that secured support for peace in the North if our Irish citizens were given the right to choose our President.
“The time is right to move on this issue,” added the Foyle MLA.
