1971 Northern Ireland Parliament Sitting at Stormont

The 1971 Stormont Parliament Session

Overview of the Northern Ireland Parliament

The Northern Ireland Parliament, located at Stormont in Belfast, has played a significant role in the political landscape of the region. On this notable day in 1971, a new sitting of the parliament was convened amidst rising tensions due to the ongoing policy of Internment.

Internment and Its Impact

The introduction of Internment, which allowed for the indefinite detention of individuals without trial, sparked considerable controversy and opposition. Many viewed it as a violation of human rights and as a method that disproportionately targeted the Catholic community in Northern Ireland. The situation escalated tensions between the communities on the island.

Social Democratic and Labour Party's Protest

The Absence of the SDLP

The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), a political party that aimed to represent the interests of the nationalist community, chose to remain absent from the new sitting at Stormont in a continued protest against the controversial policy of Internment. This walkout distinctly showcased their disapproval and refusal to participate in a system they believed was operating unjustly under the pressures of that tumultuous time.

Consequences of the Protest

The SDLP's absence reflected a broader discontent with the political processes likened to a lack of democratic representation. This protest and others like it placed the Northern Ireland government under increased scrutiny and pressure from various groups advocating for political reform and civil rights.

Fun Fact

Stormont's Historic Importance

The Stormont Estate, home to the Northern Ireland Assembly, has witnessed numerous critical junctures in Irish history, including the original establishment of the Northern Ireland government in the 1920s and many significant legislative sessions that laid the groundwork for contemporary governance.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Northern Ireland's Political History

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this intricate history, “Making Sense of the Troubles” by David McKittrick provides insightful context, while “A History of the Troubles: The Story of the Northern Ireland Conflict” by Tim Pat Coogan offers comprehensive analysis on the events surrounding this period.