Sinn Féin challenge SDLP over OBE decision

The SDLP has been challenged to clarify its position on the British Honours system.

It follows the decision of senior party member Tom Kelly to accept an OBE in the Queen’s New Year's Honours list.

Sinn Féin's John O'Dowd has said it’s inconceivable how any “so-called” nationalist or republican could become embroiled in a system that has colonialism at its core.

He claims the decision appears to suggest a u-turn on party policy and a serious insult to the millions of Irish who have suffered at the hands of British Imperialism.