SDLP rules out Sinn Féin pact
By Marina Kim
The SDLP has rejected Sinn Féin’s offer to form a nationalist electoral pact in marginal constituencies in Northern Ireland.
Sinn Fein, the largest nationalist party in the province, suggested a deal to the SDLP after speaking to voters.
A similar deal was struck between the Ulster Unionists and Democratic Unionists in Fermanagh and Tyrone and may also be agreed in South Belfast.
Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams made his offer to the SDLP: “I proposed that the agenda should include the need to co-operate in specific constituencies to ensure as far as possible that unionism does not increase its share of Westminster seats.”
But SDLP leader Margaret Ritchie rejected the alliance offer saying she “was disappointed to receive such an approach”.
Ms Ritchie wrote to Mr Adams: “Only last week, the SDLP, your own party and others took a strong stand against a unionist electoral pact.”
“I believe that both my party and yours described the pact as ‘sectarian’. I believe it is important now to be principled and consistent.”
Mr Adams said that SDLP’s declined the offer judging “not by what is good for nationalists or for the peace process, but by their antipathy towards Sinn Fein”.
