Newsline debate

I was on the BBC Newsline debate this evening which was broadcast live from Portrush. Back in Derry now and hitting a few doors. I'll post the link to the broadcast once (or if) it goes on the iplayer.

Eglinton once again

After a really positive canvass in the city yesterday lunchtime I was out in Eglinton on constituency business and catching up with people later in the day. Like in many other areas the feedback was positive. It's great to hear people's views on current issues and how they feel the election is panning out. Hopefully the weather will be this good on May 6th!

SDLP Campaign Launch

This morning I was in Belfast for the SDLP Campaign launch where Margaret Ritchie presented the compelling case for voting SDLP on May 6th. You can read her remarks online setting out the importance of your vote for jobs, defending public services, protecting benefits and much more.

Out and About

Today I was carrying on the (always important) constituency service as well as getting out and about knocking doors. Out in areas including Abercorn Road, William Street and Rossville Street where we got a very good response. Then it was across to Immaculate Conception College for a public meeting on the future of post-primary schooling on the Waterside.

City Centre Traders today

I met a delegation of Derry traders at Stormont today to discuss trading pressures in the city centre and to underline the importance and needs of commerce at the city’s heart.

In the context of the City of Culture bid and as we look forward to the new regeneration plan these traders want to see renewal in the retail and cultural life of the city centre.

Local traders are not opposed to the multiples or the competition they offer, but they want to see them in or close to the city centre.

Recognition must be given to local outlets in our historic city centre that provide the “Derryness” of the experience we offer visitors and regional shoppers.

SDLP Party Election Broadcast 2010

Party Election Broadcast - tonight!

The SDLP Party Election Broadcast will be aired tonight on TV. You can catch a sneak preview now. In case you're wondering why I'm not filmed at Free Derry corner, candidates aren't allowed to be filmed in their own constituency. So instead you see me in Limavady!

NUS Welcomes Durkan Pledge on Student Fees

Mark Durkan today signed the NUS 'Vote for Students' funding pledge to vote against any increase in fees in the next parliament, and put pressure on government to introduce a fairer alternative.

Mark said “I have consistently campaigned at Westminster against top-up fees. In January I co-sponsored a motion agreeing with the NUS that a graduate tax should be introduced for financing universities in place of top-up fees and against raising the £3,000 cap on fees.

“Research shows the current system of tuition and top-up fees has discouraged many pupils from poorer backgrounds from applying to university due to fears of debt.

NUS President Wes Streeting said:

“I am delighted that Mark Durkan is standing up for students and their families in Foyle by signing up to this pledge. He has demonstrated his determination to give every young person in his constituency a fair chance to go to university.”


ENDS

12.04.10

Campaign Launch @ Guildhall Square

Don't forget to register!

Don't forget to check if you are registered to vote! You can call the local election office for free on 0800 0323 700; email them at info@eoni.org.uk or call into their office at 20 Queen Street, Derry. You have until 20 April to register if you want to have your say on the 6th of May!

PS. Very good response on the doors this weekend. Thanks for encouragement everyone.