'People are fed up with the status quo' - Claire Hanna MP

As SDLP Leader I often travel across Northern Ireland and meet people from all walks of life. Whether it’s in Belfast or Derry, Enniskillen or Newry, the message I keep hearing is the same – people are fed up with the status quo.

For some, that means frustration at the lack of progress toward a New Ireland. For others, it’s the daily struggle to put food on the table, heat their homes or buy a house. Everyday issues like affordable childcare, long waits for healthcare, or trying to get a Special Educational Needs statement for your child have become an uphill battle that takes a real toll on families. Too many people feel like they are doing everything right, yet still can’t get ahead.

In East Derry we see families struggling due to the proliferation of second homes and Airbnbs. People are being forced to move out of the communities they grew up in and that’s wrong.

The North Coast has one of the finest tourism offerings on this island, but when the major events leave and the season ends far too often local communities and businesses are left without the support they need.

Long-promised trainlines have not yet been built, roads remain unfinished and public transport is unfit for purpose. These are just a few of the problems plaguing people in this area.

Politics should make life better for people, but too often it doesn’t. Nearly two years after the Executive returned to much fanfare, who can honestly say they feel better off? Instead of getting to grips with the challenges families face, we’ve seen drift, infighting and passing the buck from parties more interested in scoring points than solving problems. People want less theatre and more delivery – not another press conference or photo opportunity, but actual change in their lives they can feel.

As the Official Opposition, the SDLP has been speaking up for people and holding the Executive to account. We’ve brought forward practical proposals to make childcare affordable, reduce ambulance waiting times, save Lough Neagh and support our arts sector – but those in power still aren’t listening.

Our party believes in building a New Ireland, but we also want to build a better Northern Ireland along the way. We can fix the problems families face today while planning a fairer, more prosperous future. Despite what some may claim, this isn’t an either-or choice.

The SDLP’s vision for a New Ireland is one that delivers affordable housing, universal healthcare and real opportunities for young people so they don’t feel they have to move away.

We know people have questions, and we don’t pretend to have all the answers, but we want to start that honest, open conversation about what kind of society we can build together.

That’s why I’m coming to the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre on Wednesday, November 5 at 6.30pm for a Town Hall meeting. I want to hear from you – your views, your experiences and your hopes for the future.

Hope to see you there.

Claire Hanna (SDLP Leader)