SDLP assembly member Patsy McGlone will step down from the Northern Ireland Assembly at the next election.

McGlone, aged 66, has represented Mid Ulster since 2003 and is the SDLP's longest-serving MLA.

He was first elected as a councillor in 1993 for the Ballinderry area on the former Cookstown District Council.

McGlone has held several committee roles at Stormont, including chair of the Environment Committee and the Enterprise, Trade and Investment Committee. He served as Deputy Speaker from 2016 to 2024 and currently sits on the Justice Committee as the party's Opposition Justice Spokesperson.

The next Assembly election is scheduled for 6 May 2027, when all 90 seats will be contested.

SDLP leader Claire Hanna stated that McGlone's electoral record reflects the trust and respect he has earned from his community.

Hanna said McGlone will remain part of the SDLP and continue as a source of advice, noting he likely has further work ahead before the election.