As SDLP Members comprised 8% or more of the total number of Members of the Assembly at the end of the day on which the Assembly first met, the condition set out in Standing Order 45A(1)(c) is met that the SDLP may therefore choose to be recognised as an Opposition party. I received a letter from the nominating officer of the SDLP to advise me that Ms Cara Hunter will serve as its nominating officer for this item of business.

Ms Hunter, does your party choose to be recognised as the official Opposition?

Yes, the SDLP wishes to be recognised as the official Opposition, with Matthew O'Toole MLA as its leader.

In accordance with Standing Order 45A(2), I invite the nominating officer of the party in Opposition to nominate a member of that party to be the leader of the Opposition.

In our role as the official Opposition, we wish to nominate Matthew O'Toole as leader of the Opposition.

A Member:

Twice.

Thank you: I apologise for that.