Durkan: We face serious challenge from Sinn Féin

The SDLP has launched its campaign for the November 26th Assembly elections in the North.

Speaking at the launch, party leader Mark Durkan said he was aware that the SDLP faced a serious challenge from Sinn Féin, which could emerge as the largest party in the North after the election.

"We know we are in for a fight in this election," Mr Durkan said.

"The balance of power could be easily defined by a handful of votes in a number of constituencies."

However, he also warned people not to underestimate the "calibre and character" of his party.

The SDLP was the most popular nationalist party in the 1998 Assembly elections, but Sinn Féin managed to secure more seats and a higher popular vote in the Westminster elections in 2001.

The SDLP’s election campaign is supported by Guildford Four member Gerry Conlon, who will appear in the party’s election broadcasts.