Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty has had the SDLP whip restored six months after being suspended from the party.
The SDLP leadership is understood to have been given assurances that the one-time All-Ireland winner can fulfil his responsibilities as an assembly member while also managing Laois GAA’s senior football team.
Mr McNulty took up his coaching job with the Leinster side for the second time in October, drawing criticism from the SDLP leadership, who argued that being an assembly member is a “full-time job”.
He was suspended in February after leaving the recall of the restored assembly before proceedings had concluded.
It emerged that former Armagh player travelled by helicopter to Wexford for his side’s Division 4 Allianz National Football League game, which had a 6pm throw-in.
At the time, the SDLP said Mr McNulty left Parliament Buildings “without seeking permission and did not return for important parliamentary business which included the SDLP taking up its role as the official opposition at Stormont”.
However, following a six-month review of the matter, the SDLP has agreed to restore the whip.
“Following a review, the SDLP has restored the whip to Justin McNulty MLA subject to the standard conditions expected of all party representatives,” a spokesperson said.
“We look forward to welcoming Justin back to our team at the assembly.”
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said: “My view has always been that it would be possible to resolve this.
“I am pleased that the whip has now been restored and look forward to working with Justin as a member of our team to deliver for the people of Newry and Armagh.”
Mr McNulty has been approached for comment.
