11/03/2016 Party Political Broadcasts - Social Democratic and Labour Party

I believe that we have it in our power to change society,

to create wealth which benefits us all, supporting job creation

and ending forced emigration.

To ensure proper apprenticeships

and university qualifications which lead to meaningful employment.

To build a health service focused on preventing illness

and strengthening mental health.

And to make sure Northern Ireland takes its rightful place

on this island and in Europe.

Throughout my life I've always fought for progress

as a member of the SDLP.

I joined the party

when we were delivering a real revolution

in Irish politics, one which ended conflict and built peace.

The hope of that era was astounding.

Across the North there was a real sense

that we had the world at our feet,

that we could build a society which matched the work ethic

and spirit of all who lived here,

where respect was guaranteed for all, regardless of religion or race,

and where opportunity was more about what you did

and how well you did it,

not about where you came from.

But it hasn't worked out.

It wasn't meant to be like this.

Today, we have a failing government,

which cuts investment and third-level education

while spending hundreds of millions of pounds

slashing civil servant jobs.

A failing government which does nothing to support

the thousands of young workers

who go abroad each and every year to find work.

A failing government which hands tough decisions on welfare payments

to the meanest group of Tory politicians ever to govern.

I got into politics to stop failure, and to build a better future.

That's why I ran for election aged 22,

that's why I worked hard to make Derry a City of Culture

as its youngest ever mayor,

and that's why I ran to become leader of the SDLP.

Join us, and build a better future.

A future where our position in Europe is secure.

We don't want checkpoints back on our borders.

A future where investment in education and apprenticeships

matches the ambition of our young people.

Where the creation of decent jobs is government's priority

and wealth is enjoyed by everyone.

A future where childcare is affordable and accessible.

A future where wellness

and mental health services are prioritised, and world-class.

A future where the infrastructure and the investment matches

the needs of the people, and not the pet projects of the politicians.

Join us, and build a better future.