SDLP suspends MLA Justin McNulty for leaving Stormont to attend GAA game

A member of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) in Northern Ireland has been suspended from the party after leaving a parliamentary session early without permission. Justin McNulty left the assembly to manage a Gaelic football team, driving to County Wexford for a match. McNulty, who was appointed the manager of Laois last October, was present on the sidelines as his team secured a victory before missing crucial parliamentary business. This included the nomination of a party colleague as leader of the official opposition. The SDLP confirmed the suspension, stating that attendance at the assembly session was mandatory, and McNulty's absence without seeking permission was a breach of the party's instructions. As a result, he will not be able to attend SDLP assembly meetings. Previously, the party had warned McNulty that he had to choose between his role as an assembly member and his position as Laois manager.