A proposal to confer the Freedom of the City of Drogheda on former SDLP MP for Newry and Armagh, Seamus Mallon, has been welcomed by his party colleague Justin McNulty MLA.
The Mayor of Drogheda, Pio Smyth, has put forward the proposal in recognition of Mr Mallon’s contribution to the Peace Process through his role as former deputy First Minister and deputy leader of the SDLP.
Commenting on the move, Justin McNulty says it is a fitting tribute to Mr Mallon but expressed disappointment that Sinn Fein voted against the proposal.
“I welcome the move by Mayor Pio Smith, offering Séamus Mallon Freedom of Drogheda. It is however disappointing to see Sinn Féin vote this motion down,” he said. “Séamus Mallon was a key player in bringing peace to the North and it is only right that he be honoured in this way.
“As the former MLA for my own constituency of Newry and Armagh, it fills me with much pride, but more importantly hope that the politics of the SDLP is recognised and the sacrifice of our leaders remembered.”