SF storm to success in the southern border area, toppling SDLP

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Friday, 9 June 2017 07:36

Elated: Mickey Brady and Chris Hazzard celebrate seats in Newry & Armagh and South Down.

By Iveren McCallion

In Newry and Armagh Sinn Fein's Mickey Brady unsurprisingly returned to his seat, claiming almost 50% of the vote.

The turnout was up slightly at 68.89%, it's highest since 2005.

In his acceptance speech Mr Brady thanked supporters and hit out at the SDLP election campaign which spotlighted the republican party's abstentionism policy.

Meanwhile Chris Hazzard has made history becoming the first Sinn Fein MP in South Down, contributing to an SDLP wipeout.

Veteran outgoing MP Margaret Ritchie said in an emotional conciliatory speech that she'll "live to fight another day" and will continue to do so for the people of South Down.

Fuelled by his success at the Assembly Elections three months ago, Hazzard claims Sinn Fein's clear messages on Brexit and devolution resonated with voters.

He told Q Radio that the electorate is looking for proper representation in Europe and Sinn Fein is the only party that can deliver.