An SDLP member is to face disciplinary action after making a racist remark. The outburst by Mr Tommy McTeague (78) is to be discussed at an emergency meeting of the party's management committee within the next few days.
It was alleged he twice used the term "niggers" at a meeting of Newtowabbey Council, Co Antrim.
Mr McTeague, vice-chairman of the area's district policing partnership board today apologised for the remark which he claimed was made in the heat of a debate.
He said: "I used terminology which was ill-judged, inexcusable and plain wrong. On reflection I now appreciate the offence which my remarks may have caused and I apologise unreservedly for that.
"I would hate to think that my comments have soured the relationships which are central to the SDLP's mission of securing equality for all sections of society."
Racist violence in Northern Ireland has doubled with 136 attacks recorded by police between April and June this year, a majority of them in loyalist areas of south Belfast.
One of the latest victims, a Portuguese teenager, was spat on in the mainly nationalist Spencer Road district of Derry.
SDLP Chief Whip Mr John Dallat confirmed disciplinary procedures had been put in place to decide what action should be taken against Mr McTeague.
He said: "The SDLP has a clear policy and proud track record on equality in all its aspects, and it is important that all our representatives, officers and members adhere to both its letter and spirit.
"In no circumstances will the party ever allow the use of language which is anything other than anti-racist."
PA