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The SDLP hosted a conference on constitutional change at The MAC in Belfast last week, bringing political figures from Ireland and Britain together to discuss the future of these islands. Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty was in attendance and was impressed by the calibre of conversation at the event and the discussions it is likely to spark in the time ahead.
The 'Future of these Islands: Preparing for Change' event took place on Thursday 25 June, with speakers including SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP, former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, and Irish Minister Jim O'Callaghan TD, alongside a number of other well-known politicians and activists.
Mr McNulty said: "It was really positive to be in attendance at the 'Future of these Islands' event and hear from an extraordinary line up of speakers with great political experience. I was really impressed with the caliber of conversations had and the many future conversations the conference will spark.
"I and the SDLP believe strongly in pluralism and respectful dialogue. Constitutional change is too important to become an echo chamber or a contest of slogans. It requires planning, evidence and a willingness to engage across political divides. And it means creating space for these conversations.
"Ten years on from Brexit, we've seen what happens when constitutional change isn't properly prepared for. We cannot afford to make the same mistake again.
"The Preparing for Change conference was about creating the space for those conversations, bringing together voices from across these islands to discuss not just where we are going, but how we get there."
He added: "I am a strong believer that extoling the benefits of building a new nation will offer everybody on this island hope for a new positive and united future."
