The full outworkings of this move will not become clear until the DUP ends its block on restoring Stormont
The party dropped from third to fifth-largest in May's election after losing four MLAs, including deputy leader Nichola Mallon.
It led to the infamous "Vote Mike, get Colum" remark from then Ulster Unionist leader Mike Nesbitt as he talked up the prospect of the parties working together. In formally establishing as the opposition, the SDLP will gain extra speaking rights in the Assembly chamber when it resumes - helping to hold the government to greater account.
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