Unionist Unity A Must For The Future
EAST Belfast DUP MLAs Robin Newton and Wallace Browne have called for a unionist realignment campaign in May’s expected general election. The time of unionists fighting unionists for a portion of the pro-union vote is long past; it is a political luxury that cannot be afforded.
Robin Newton said,
“Many grassroots unionists have concerns about a badly fractured unionist electorate with a current three-way split and with increasing voter apathy. The current lack of a working together arrangement is starkly demonstrated in the South Belfast and Fermanagh and South Tyrone seats. These seats are winnable for unionism with an agreed candidate. The seats are in nationalist hands only because unionists haven’t got their act together.
The arrangement with the Conservative Party is a matter for the Ulster Unionists. However, it is obvious this initiative does not enjoy the full support of Ulster Unionist Party members; and thereby creates further discord within unionism. Jim Allister’s TUV party is basically a one-trick pony – demolish the DUP. All this is wasted energy and the pro-union electorate deserves a better and more strategic approach.”
Wallace Browne added,
“There is much to be gained by the unionist parties agreeing a level of co-operation for the Westminster elections. This could lead on to increased collaboration in the run up the May 2011 Assembly and Council elections and the political benefits at this level are obvious.
Recent polls on unionist unity have confirmed the desire of the unionist population to see a level of co-operation. The unionist parties need to respond to the electorate demands. The DUP are ready, willing and able to rise to the challenges of a working arrangement with fellow unionists. Other unionists need to spell out why they cannot do what the people want.”
