SDLP Policing and Justice Spokesperson Dolores Kelly MLA has said that Christmas can be a terrifying time for those facing domestic abuse; out of the normal routine and a lot of time spent behind closed doors can heighten the level of violence victims face. Mrs Kelly added that legislation is long over-due to specifically deal with domestic abuse, and that those holding Stormont in deadlock, preventing this, should be ashamed of themselves.

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan, has called for an immediate halt to Univeral Credit after the latest glitch in the system could potentially see families here losing out on a payment this month. As a result of employers' early payment policy in December, some claimaints could find themselves above the threshold for their assessment period resulting in a 'zero award.'

SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood MLA has welcomed the addition of Ryan Wilson to the SDLP Council Group. Cllr Wilson will take up the vacant seat in the Dunsilly DEA of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

SDLP MLA Pat Catney has condemned the sectarian graffiti that has appeared on a wall in the Derriaghy area of Lisburn.