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SDLP assembly member to retire from politics

Jayne McCormackPolitical correspondent, BBC News NI
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Patsy McGlone is the SDLP's longest-serving assembly member

The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) assembly member Patsy McGlone has confirmed he is stepping down from the Stormont at the next assembly election.

The 66-year-old Mid Ulster representative is the party's longest-serving MLA at Stormont.

He was first elected in 1993 as a councillor before going on to join the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2003. He has also served as a deputy speaker.

SDLP leader Claire Hanna said McGlone's electoral record was a "testament to the trust and respect he has earned from the community he serves".

"While Patsy may be stepping down from the Assembly, he will always remain an important part of the SDLP family and a valued source of wisdom and advice," she added.

"Knowing Patsy, I suspect he still has plenty of work left to do before next year's election."

The assembly election is due to take place on 6 May 2027.

Parties are currently in the process of selecting candidates who will run for the 90 seats up for grabs.