Intereting piece. I’ll make a few comments if I may. I’m glad that some one in the SDLP sees the value of making use or at least trying to make use of the Fianna Fáil units n the North. Some SDLP people want to cover their eyes and ears and hope they disapear. From talking to the lads, this wont be happening.

The second point is related to FF in the North and the SDLP. You say that “The SDLP can see Fianna Fail and Irish Labour support groups in the North as a threat but given neither are contesting elections why not convert them into allies” I think it is fairly clear that we wont be contesting the Westminster Elections in 2010 but no decision has been made with regard to 2011 and beyond. Minister Ahern confirmed this when he attended the launch of the South Down FF Forum. The members up North are determined to run in the locals and assembly and the support is there for it down south too. It’s some thing that the SDLP needs to accept and realise because its not going to go away.

I noticed in your piece there that you failed to mention Republicanism once. I see that you refer to a United Ireland but no mention of Republicanism just Nationalism. For too long, Republicanism, due to the actions of the Provo’s, was a dirty word until I’m glad to say that Fianna Fáil took on the Shinners and won. Republicanism is something that belongs to all the people.

To me, the SDLP was the voice of moderate, constitutional republicanism in the North. The SDLP should not be afraid to say it is a Republican party. It should be proud of this and not be ashamed to say it.