Foyle MP Colum Eastwood looks back on a year of investment and advocacy in Derry
Colum Eastwood, the SDLP MP for Foyle, has reflected on a year of political battles, community support, and major investment wins as he looked back on his work throughout 2025.
Mr Eastwood said in a social media post: “Throughout 2025, my office was busy fighting for investment, trying to make Derry the best place to live, work and raise a family and helping thousands of people across the city who came to us for support.
“We delivered more than £3.5m in direct support through social security awards, appeal decisions and other financial support to people who need and deserve it.
“We secured millions of pounds of investment from the British and Irish Governments that will help regenerate the city centre, better connect the North West with the rest of our island and create new jobs.”
Previously in 2025 Mr Eastwood had been charged with others with taking part in an illegal procession in support of Palestine on February 14, 2024.
At a previous hearing the court was told that Eastwood would be accepting an informed warning which is a diversion.
In November a prosecutor told the court that in light of the informed warning the charge against the MP would be withdrawn.
While looking back at 2025, Mr Eastwood said: “I used the voice you gave me to take a stand against the genocide in Gaza and make sure that the British Prime Minister and Foreign Secretaries understood the depth of feeling and compassion that Derry has for the plight of the Palestinian people.”
Mr. Eastwood referred to the campaign for justice for the victims of Bloody Sunday and his attendance at the trial of Soldier F alongside the families of the victims in September and October.
"They are an inspiration to the world and I’ll keep supporting them for as long as they need,” he said.
Looking ahead into 2026, the MP for Foyle said: “My job is to fight for Derry everywhere that I can. That’s the mission as we enter 2026. If you, or someone you know, needs help - please just get in contact with my office in the New Year and we’ll do our best for you.
“Happy New Year!”