SDLP Leader Dr Alasdair McDonnell has announced that Mark H Durkan will replace the outgoing SDLP Environment Minister Alex Attwood MLA.

Mr McDonnell said: "I am delighted to announce that the new SDLP Environment Minister is Mark H Durkan who will replace the outgoing minister Alex Attwood MLA.

"Mark represents the emerging generation of the SDLP, a hard-working politician with a firm commitment to social justice.

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"He has done an outstanding job as the party's social development spokesperson, meticulously working through the welfare reform bill and speaking out against its harshest elements.

"The party look forward to seeing Mark follow on the excellent work of Alex Attwood who as Environment Minister has tackled the bureaucracy in our planning system by pursuing a progressive agenda.

"Alex has also been a watchdog at the Executive table, holding the First and Deputy First Minister to account over their failure to deliver on a shared future.

"Alex has been a real asset to the party during his time as Minister and will take a leading role in shaping our political direction in the coming years.

"His experience and analysis will be invaluable as we work to tackle the outstanding issues that challenge our society."

(CD/JP)