South Down MLA Sinead Bradley (SDLP) has called for a special dispensation for Northern Ireland in the wake of the EU Referendum vote.
She said: “After successfully leading the campaign for a remain vote in Northern Ireland, the SDLP is now leading the campaign to defend the democratically stated will of people in the North.
“This week, we have held discussions with An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, the leaders of Fianna Fáil and the Labour Party, SNP Europe Spokesperson Stephen Gethins MP, the President of the European Parliament Martin Schulz and last night Colum Eastwood addressed European Leaders and Heads of State.
“We are making the case across this island and across our continent that Northern Ireland must have a special dispensation that reflects and respects the will of people here. A majority voted in favour of remaining in Europe, their decision cannot be ignored and they will not consent to being dragged out.
“We will work alongside a progressive axis with those of influence in Europe to ensure that as negotiations get underway, they do so in our favour. The island must speak with one voice – united and indivisible in the face of an aggressive isolationist agenda in Britain.