The SDLP will gather today for an annual conference aimed at psyching the party up for a European Parliament election without former leader Mr John Hume.
The party, which last November suffered losses in the Assembly Elections, was expected to focus on its own plans renewal as well as concentrating on the review of the Belfast Agreement, the economy, policing, health and other issues.
Party leader Mr Mark Durkan was expected to rouse conference delegates in Belfast with the speech focusing on the way ahead for the party and the peace process.
Party sources said a significant part of the SDLP leader's speech would "deal with the process of renewal" in the party.
This weekend's conference will also see the departure of deputy leader Ms Brid Rodgers from frontline politics. Three Stormont Assembly members are bidding to succeed her - North Belfast MLA, Mr Alban Maginness, South Belfast's MLA, Dr Alasdair McDonnell, East Derry MLA, Mr John Dallat.
Mr Maginness and Mr McDonnell last night also submitted their names for the nomination to be the party's candidate in June's European Parliament election.
Former leader, Nobel Peace Prize winner Mr Hume announced he was stepping down in June after serving in European Parliament since 1979.
Ten members of the party have put their names forward to replace him.
SDLP members will not, however, choose their European candidate until a special convention on March 6th is held in Cookstown.