With talks between the SDLP and Fianna Fáil coming close to a conclusion about a possible merger between the two political parties, the whole issue has thrown up a number of difficulties for both parties, but especially the SDLP.

Concerns have been raised by members of the SDLP that the merger between the two parties is more of a takeover by Fianna Fáil.

Indeed, in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, SDLP Mid-Tyrone Councillor Rosemarie Shields has left the party in recent days and joined the newly formed, but as of yet unnamed political party headed by former Sinn Féin TD Peadar Tóibín.

Ms. Shields is the first elected representative in the North to join Toibín’s party.

The Mid-Tyrone Councillor said her former party “no longer articulates clear principles or policies”.

“The SDLP has lost its way and its relevance. It is directionless and fracturing. West Tyrone specifically has lost FOUR councillors since 2016.

“There is widespread and vocal disquiet and discontent within the SDLP.”

In regards to the possible merger between the SDLP and Fianna Fáil, Ms. Shields said she was only consulted about the merger after she had left the party.

“Had I been asked, I would have given my opinion, that it is a foolish move and not something I could in conscience have supported.

“I could not compromise my beliefs to facilitate the political future of two parties who are so quick to change and compromise their views. For example, Fianna Fáil-Fianna Gael confidence and supply and SDLP u-turn on its previous pro-life position.”

Ms. Shields said she was attracted to the principles and objectives of the new party including towards economic justice, the protection of rural communities and quality of life for all.

Independent Councillor Sorcha McAnespy, says the potential merger will have little affect on her.

The Omagh Councillor currently stands as an Independent but is on the National Committee for Fianna Fáil. Ms. McAnespy is still waiting to see if Fianna Fáil will run candidates in this year’s council elections.

However, she could not see herself running as an SDLP candidate if it was that the two parties did merge.

“From my understanding the conversations happening at very top levels of the party. There seems to be discussions ongoing there hasn’t been any official announcement made by any party.

“I’m still standing. As for being a Fianna Fáil candidate they haven’t decided to run candidates in the North. I am standing, they know I am standing.

“I wouldn’t ever envisage myself running under SDLP banner.”