University of Ulster DUP

University of Ulster DUP: Leading for youth at Ulster

2011-07-06T16:13:00.001+01:00

Just under three years ago, we formed the University of Ulster DUP, at a time where Unionist students had literally no voice at UU. Since that time, our increasingly visible presence has proven that Unionists now have a strong voice at the University, and within the Students Union itself. We have represented students across NI at all campuses, and it is clear that the Democratic Unionist Party continues to be the voice of the majority of Unionist students in Northern Ireland. We are the local party leading for youth.

At UU, we have been busy on each campus throughout the academic year. In our first couple of years, we were confronted with numerous examples where Unionist students felt sidelined or alienated at UU. We assisted these students with many issues, and went directly to the University, specifically when students felt they could not approach their Union. Since that time, we have actively taken part in student elections at both a single campus, and cross campus level throughout the University.

During the last academic year, we had representatives sitting on the General Council of the S.U, and on the Site Executive at Jordanstown campus. In that time, the General Council oversaw UUSU’s biggest organisational restructure ever. There are now far more checks and balances in place, and more opportunities for student involvement throughout the University. It is a fact that without our input and involvement, these changes would not have been nearly as democratically fair.

In March of this year, I stood in the most recent Student elections for an overall four campus position, and was greatly encouraged to see the Unionist vote rise significantly across each of the four campuses. There is still much work to be done at UU, but in order to achieve this, and to encourage more Unionist involvement across NI’s student landscape, we need to work alongside other Unionist groupings throughout the Universities and FE colleges.

Recently, a group of us representing the DUP (including some Ulster DUP members) attended an event entitled; “Unionist Youth Conference – What is the future of Unionism?” Delegates were present from each Unionist Party, and those present heard speeches from younger party members, younger councillors and a party representative in the form of an MLA. There was also a lively panel discussion at the event, and whilst issues such as youth participation in politics were high on the agenda, it was clear to those present that the only delegates talking seriously about closer unionist cooperation and how unionists should work together in the interests of the Province, were those representing the DUP.

We will work alongside our DUP counterparts at QUB to encourage more Unionists to see the benefit of being associated with the most active Unionist party in local Universities. We also encourage all Unionist students at the University of Ulster, more specifically those joining in September, to join us in building upon the good work we have achieved thus far. We will continue to change what had become a stagnant student political setting, and in return ensure that Unionist Participation is a fundamental part of UU going forward.

Electorate have spoken: DUP clear choice to lead Northern Ireland Forward

2011-05-09T20:14:00.001+01:00

May 5th has been and gone and Northern Ireland's electorate have clearly spoken. The DUP is the overwhelming choice for Unionist voters and has successfully returned 38 MLA's to Stormont, the largest Assembly group we have ever had. The DUP has also managed to return 175 councillors to local government up and down the country!

The University of Ulster DUP would like to send our congratulations to all 38 DUP MLA's and 175 DUP Councillors!

The DUP continues to keep Northern Ireland moving forward and it is abundantly clear that the DUP's option of political stability and a United, Strong Unionism is the preferred choice for the people of Northern Ireland. Others, who offered nothing with negative, backward politics have failed. They are clearly not what the people of Northern Ireland want, and these results prove that.

The DUP will continue to deliver at Stormont, Local Council, Europe and Westminster to get the best deal for all of the people of Northern Ireland.

The DUP will continue to "Keep Northern ireland Moving Forward!"

DUP Announces full slate of candidates for assembly election!

2011-02-28T15:39:00.000Z

Rt. Hon. Peter Robinson MLA
DUP launches election Candidates

The Democratic Unionist Party has announced its team of forty-four candidates for the forthcoming Northern Ireland Assembly election. DUP Leader, Rt. Hon. Peter Robinson MLA said that the DUP will be taking a positive message to the people of Northern Ireland. Speaking today, Mr. Robinson said:

"The DUP is offering a very strong slate of candidates throughout Northern Ireland in this crucial Assembly election. I am particularly pleased that we have a strong mix of experienced public representatives and new candidates to offer the electorate. The emergence of new candidates is reflective of the way in which the DUP is expanding to bring new people in to front-line representation. They all have very strong roots in their communities and a capacity to really influence things for the better.

On 5th May voters will have a choice to make. We can move forward and build on the progress of recent years or we can be dragged backwards to instability and conflict. We want to build on progress so far and ensure that Unionism retains its leadership role in the Executive. Every vote will be vital and we’ll be working hard to engage people who have never voted before or who feel elections don't matter.

This election will be focused on the economy and which party can provide policies to steer us through the massive cuts being handed down to the Executive by the Conservative/Liberal Democrat government. Despite the £4billion cuts to our budget, we are a low tax party and will be offering policies to keep household bills low whilst creating the conditions to help business flourish.

Our campaign will be positive and we will be offering people the chance to vote to keep Northern Ireland moving forward.”

CANDIDATES – ASSEMBLY ELECTION 2011

East Belfast
Sammy Douglas
Robin Newton
Peter Robinson

North Belfast
Paula Bradley
William Humphrey
Nelson McCausland

West Belfast
Brian Kingston

South Belfast
Ruth Patterson
Jimmy Spratt

Foyle
William Hay

West Tyrone
Allan Bresland
Tom Buchanan

Newry & Armagh
William Irwin

South Down
Jim Wells

Strangford
Jonathan Bell
Simon Hamilton
Michelle McIlveen
William Walker

North Down
Gordon Dunne
Alex Easton
Peter Weir

Upper Bann
Sydney Anderson
Stephen Moutray

Mid Ulster
Ian McCrea

Fermanagh & South Tyrone
Arlene Foster
Maurice Morrow

Lagan Valley
Jonathan Craig
Paul Givan
Brenda Hale
Edwin Poots

South Antrim
Trevor Clarke
Paul Girvan
Pam Lewis

North Antrim
Paul Frew
David McIlveen
Mervyn Storey
Evelyne Robinson

East Londonderry
Gregory Campbell
Adrian McQuillan
George Robinson

East Antrim
David Hilditch
Gordon Lyons
Alastair Ross
Sammy Wilson

Go Back
Print Version

An old classic...with a difference!

2011-02-24T15:49:00.000Z

Alastair Ross MLA addresses UUJ DUP

2010-10-08T12:37:00.000+01:00

Democratic Unionist Party Assembly Member Alastair Ross this afternoon attended the University of Ulster DUP AGM. Mr Ross addressed members at the Jordanstown campus and discussed issues as wide ranging as youth participation and unionist unity.

The East Antrim MLA said,

“I always welcome the opportunity to speak with younger people who have an interest in politics. It is also pleasing to see how the DUP grouping at the University has grown over the past two years thanks to determined and driven leadership by its members.

Whilst issues such as youth participation are always high on the agenda, it was refreshing to listen to younger Party members talking about closer unionist cooperation and how unionists should work together in the interests of the Province. One clear example of this at a University level is working with other unionist groupings on campus to campaign on pushing up turnout at elections. Sadly it would appear that so far only the DUP group on campus is interested in developing such ideas.

The DUP is clearly the party of choice for younger people, and I am pleased that they see the DUP as the Party most likely to deliver the life opportunities they want. Through our commitment to build a stronger economy we can help to create the kinds of jobs that graduates are looking for, and also counter the exodus of young talent that we witnessed a decade ago.

Equally important is that we listen to the views of younger people and incorporate their views when formulating policies in this area.

Everything that we do at Westminster, Stormont or at local council level is to help build a better Northern Ireland. Younger people are the major stakeholders in that future and whilst I am pleased that so many are keen to play their part in that aim, we need to encourage more younger people to take an interest in what is happening in their local communities and see that politics is relevant to them.”

DUP Leading for youth

2010-09-30T13:10:00.001+01:00

We are pleased to report that yet again Freshers Fayre was a fantastic success, and it is great to be able to welcome so many new members and fresh faces to our association at each campus of UU this year.

Just under two years ago, we formed Uni of Ulster DUP, at a time where Unionist students had little to no voice at UU. Since that time, our existence at the University has proven that Unionists now have a strong voice at the University and within the Students Union itself.

We have already been clearly visible on campus during freshers week, in particular on freshers day at each campus, and will continue to be active throughout this academic year. Freshers day is not the only opportunity to join us and actively take part, so we encourage participation in the association all year round. We encourage all Unionist students at the University to join us in changing what has become a stagnant student political setting.

It is clear that the Democratic Unionist Party continues to be the voice of the majority of Unionist students in Northern Ireland. We are the local party leading for youth.

For any information on Ulster DUP you can get in touch through our contact page,
or if you intend on joining our association this year, you can let us know through our Join Us page.

In addition you can follow us on our facebook and Twitter pages.

University Of Ulster DUP Freshers Success!

2010-09-24T16:05:00.001+01:00

Ulster DUP was on hand at this week at the various campuses of University of Ulster for Freshers Fayre, with the result being a fantastic success. The association was the only Unionist association with stalls present at both Coleraine and Jordanstown campuses and both campuses saw many new members join. Jordanstown in particular saw a very positive response, and many more Unionists now see the benefit of being associated with the most active Unionist party in local Universities.

Nigel Dodds MP, Mervyn Storey MLA, Peter Weir MLA and Ian McCrea MLA were on hand during the UUJ event to support the association, and Commenting on the success of the day, association Chairman Jonathan Lavery said; "For too long Unionist students at the University had no representation or voice. Since we formed this association two years ago, we have changed that. The fantastic response this week has proven that Unionists now have a strong voice at the University and within the Students Union."

Freshers Stall

2010-09-20T16:23:00.000+01:00

If you know any students who will be starting at the University of Ulster then be sure to tell them about University of Ulster DUP. We will have our stall at the Jordanstown Campus this Thursday 23rd between 10am & 3pm. Various party representatives will be there, so come along and get involved!!

Republican rioters using children as human shields

2010-07-27T12:57:00.000+01:00

DUP Member of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, Jonathan Bell has urged the Chief Constable and senior police officers to liaise closely with social services trusts throughout Northern Ireland to protect children being used by dissident Republican criminals as human shields. Mr Bell said it was important that those parents who permit or allow their children to be used in such a way should be investigated for parental neglect. Speaking today Jonathan Bell MLA said:

“The Chief Constable has confirmed to me that police have identified eight or nine year old children being used in a riot situation.

Using children as human shields shows the depths of barbarism these criminals will stoop to. Two key issues present themselves: parental neglect and significant harm: it is not enough for a parent to say to a child “you can stay out till midnight but steer clear of the riot”. Parents have a legal duty to ensure that their children are not placed at risk of significant harm. Leaving their children at a riot interface, where petrol bombs, gas cylinders, fireworks and heavy masonry, represents a violation of that duty.

There needs to be enhanced co-operation between police and social services, under established legal protocols, to protect vulnerable children. We have now established clear evidence of children as young as eight and nine being exploited by dissident Republican criminals. This should be labelled accurately as child abuse for that is exactly what it is. Using children as human shields or pro-actively purchasing petrol and distributing it to them to throw in petrol bombs is exploitation.

Society cannot tolerate a situation whereby children are being exploited in this way. The parents of those who allow their children to be abused in this way cannot escape their responsibilities. As to those using the children, I have no doubt that they don’t care one way or the other what happens to the kids caught up in riots. Their bitterness and hatred is such that the death of a child wont cause them a second’s thought.”

DUP MLAs are hardest working

2010-07-22T10:58:00.002+01:00

AVERAGE VOTING RECORD BY PARTY (ASSEMBLY TERM SINCE 2007):

DUP 81%
SDLP 78%
SF 74%
ALL 66%
UUP 60%

Best Individual Voting Records:

Alastair Ross MLA (DUP) 97%
Peter Weir MLA (DUP) 97%
Jimmy Spratt (DUP) 97%
Allan Bresland (DUP) 97%
Patsy McGlone (SDLP) 97%
Alex Easton MLA (DUP) 93%
Ian McCrea MLA (DUP) 93%
Simon Hamilton MLA (DUP) 93%

DUP Chief Whip Peter Weir has said that the publication of statistics on the voting record of all Assembly Members demonstrates the DUP’s commitment to serving the people of Northern Ireland and in ensuring that the Party’s MLAs are doing the work they are elected and paid for.

Mr Weir said, ‘Every Assembly Member will know the importance of constituency work and in assisting people with the problems which face them. However, one of the primary jobs of any MLA is as a legislator and that requires attendance at Stormont to scrutinise and vote on the Bills which are passing through the Assembly.

The attendance rate of the Ulster Unionist Party makes it difficult to ensure that important votes are won at the Assembly. Indeed, if the DUP adopted the same laissez-faire attitude as so many UUP MLAs do, I have no doubt that that nationalists would be winning key votes on important matters.

For all their moaning about full time representation and lack of executive scrutiny, it is telling that the Ulster Unionists have the worst group voting record. You can't scrutinise and hold to account if you don't bother turning up. If you don't bother turning up, you are in no position to demand higher standards of other people that you yourself don't abide by.

The average voting record for each party shows the importance which the DUP places upon ensuring that MLAs who are paid for the work of legislating are doing that work and attending Stormont to represent the people from constituencies across Northern Ireland who have elected them.

Of the five Assembly Members with the highest voting records, four of them are members of the Democratic Unionist Party. As unionists we have been clear that devolution is in the best interests of Northern Ireland and in the interests of our place within the United Kingdom.

Whilst the work of scrutinising legislation or even the debates in the Assembly go unseen by many people we believe it is vitally important that there is a demonstration of the work which many Assembly Members are doing at Stormont.

These figures are part of that demonstration and show the importance which each of the Parties clearly put on that work."

Foster - "Four Weeks. One statement. No hope!"

2010-06-03T16:11:00.002+01:00

Foster - "Four Weeks. One statement. No hope!"

DUP Fermanagh and South Tyrone Assembly Member Arlene Foster MLA today said:

“Grassroots Unionists are crying out for closer co-operation within Unionism. Jim Allister represents the divisions of the past. Grassroots Unionists want to see Northern Ireland moving forward. TUV wants to take us back to being sidelined and ignored in our own country. TUV supporters handed Fermanagh and South Tyrone to Gildernew: that was the TUV contribution to Unionism in the recent election.

Those who wanted to split Unionism in three and who ran a negative campaign to drag Northern Ireland backwards have been resoundingly rejected by the voters.

It was interesting to note that after a four week period of silence, the one press statement that has been issued by Jim Allister offers no hope or vision for Unionism and indulges merely in bitter sniping. Whilst Unionists are looking to come together, Jim Allister returns from self-imposed exile promising more attacks on Unionists over coming days.

Clearly the party that handed Fermanagh and South Tyrone to Michelle Gildernew has learned nothing from its rejection at the polls.”

Why it is vital to vote DUP

2010-05-05T20:16:00.002+01:00

The DUP is the only Unionist Party that has delivered real change over the last 5 years. The DUP has delivered for Unionists by securing the restoration of devolution to Stormont, without which we would not have:

The end of prescription charges

The deferral of Water charges

Free travel for pensioners

The scrapping of the hugely expensive Irish Language act

Local control of government policy

The return of Policing and Justice powers after 40 years

Investment from American and European companies into Northern Ireland

In the next parliament every Northern Ireland MP will have to fight to stop front line services and jobs being cut. A strong DUP team is the only way to protect Northern Ireland’s interests. The UUP have already sold their votes to the tories, they cannot stand-up for Northern Ireland.

The UUP has not changed. They are still the same weak and naval-gazing party that voters rejected at the last election.

Even in recent months the UUP has proven themselves to still be out of touch and irrelevant through their opposition to the devolution of policing powers and then wanting to support a Nationalist for the position of Justice minister. They have blocked Unionist unity in marginal seats, and have blocked reforms in the assembly.

The UUP is still the irrelevant and out of touch party they have always been.

The TUV has no strategy whatsoever that will deliver for people, and have no chance of changing the system at all.

Only a strong DUP team can deliver real change, and continue the vital work of protecting Northern Ireland’s interests.

Historic day for people of Fermanagh & South Tyrone

2010-04-09T10:33:00.001+01:00

Historic day for people of Fermanagh & South Tyrone

In the Belfast News Letter on Friday Rodney Connor has made the following statement:

"Today I am announcing as a candidate for the constituency of Fermanagh and South Tyrone. I want to be a voice for the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone at Westminster.

Through my work, over the years I believe that I have already demonstrated a proven track record of delivering in the constituency for people from right across the community. I know what Fermanagh and South Tyrone needs and I believe that I am well equipped to help deliver it.

Now more than ever it is essential that Fermanagh and South Tyrone has representation at Westminster. At a time of financial difficulties and recession it is vital that a constituency so far geographically removed from Westminster has its voice and influence maximised in the House of Commons.

While, if elected, I would sit as an independent, I am prepared to accept the Conservative Party whip. However on matters affecting Northern Ireland I shall vote on the basis of what I believe is in the best interests of the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone."

Commenting after a meeting of the Fermanagh and South Tyrone DUP Association on Thursday evening where the Party unanimously endorsed Rodney Connor, the DUP’'s Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Arlene Foster said,

“I am delighted by the news that Rodney Connor has indicated that he is willing to stand as an independent candidate in the General Election in Fermanagh and South Tyrone. This follows many weeks of discussions and negotiations and represents a good and potentially historic day for Fermanagh and South Tyrone and for unionism.

When unionism is divided unionism is weakened. I have no doubt that Fermanagh and South Tyrone can set the example for other areas in Northern Ireland to follow.

The DUP has always made it clear that we are prepared to step aside in the event that an independent unionist candidate could be agreed. I have no doubt that Rodney Connor is such a candidate and I give him my, and my party’s wholehearted and unqualified support.

I have known Rodney Connor for many years and know him to be of the utmost integrity and of the highest character. I have no doubt he can galvanise the votes of those who want to see Fermanagh and South Tyrone represented at Westminster. The next few weeks will see Rodney Connor take his campaign to every part of the constituency. I will be delighted to be part of that campaign.

I hope that after May 6th Fermanagh and South Tyrone can again have its voice heard at Westminster. This would give an enormous boost to the entire unionist community.”

Commenting Lord Morrow of Clogher Valley said,

“I am delighted to endorse the candidature of Rodney Connor for the forthcoming General Election in Fermanagh and South Tyrone. For too long the people in this constituency have been deprived of representation in Westminster and its now time to put things right. I will be urging people across the constituency who want an MP who sits in Westminster to vote for Rodney on May 6th.”

N.Ireland has the greatest opportunity in a generation

2010-04-09T10:11:00.000+01:00

First Minister and DUP Leader Rt. Hon. Peter Robinson MP has outlined the DUP’s approach to “the most open General election contest in a generation." Commenting from Westminster Mr Robinson said,

“This election presents the Northern Ireland electorate with the greatest opportunity in a generation. Every vote in the House of Commons will count. Therefore we need to send MPs to Westminster who will always vote in the interests of Northern Ireland.

It is an open contest with the polls indicating that neither Labour nor the Conservatives will command a working majority. I will be urging the electorate to seize the moment and ensure that Northern Ireland returns Democratic Unionist MPs who will vote on every decision in the best interests of Northern Ireland.

I will be taking a positive message to the doorsteps and asking the people to vote DUP to keep Northern Ireland moving forward. Whilst other parties are divided and visionless the DUP is offering the electorate a strategy to strengthen Northern Ireland and unionism.

Sinn Fein MPs wont use their votes in the House of Commons for their constituents whilst the SDLP aligns itself with the Labour whips. UCUNF candidates are committed to vote with the Conservative party even though that could mean voting for double digit cuts in the Northern Ireland budget. Only the DUP will always do what is in the best interests of Ulster.

As can be witnessed in both Fermanagh & South Tyrone and South Belfast, even though it is in unionism’s interests to have unity candidates the UUP is helpless because their Conservative masters will not agree to single candidates. Such a selfish approach is not good for Northern Ireland in this election. There are fourteen days until close of nominations and I trust the UUP will not allow their Tory paymasters to destroy this once in a generation opportunity.

I am looking forward to the election and unlike other Parties I can assure the electorate that on every vote in the next House of Commons the DUP’s MPs will take a strong and united stand for Northern Ireland.”

Let's Keep Northern Ireland Moving Forward

2010-03-30T12:00:00.000+01:00

The University of Ulster DUP Association was present at the official DUP election campaign launch at the Waterfront. The party leader and First Mininster; Peter Robinson spoke of how it is important that we as a country "Keep moving forward."
At the event, the First Minister highlighted the importance of continuing the good work which has already been done. He also laid out the months ahead which we all face:

"Over the next few weeks we must take our case once again to the country. Confident about what we have achieved but not complacent about the challenges that lie ahead.

At election time politicians mostly apply the campaign tactic of asking voters to vote against something - against some policy or some person. It works - there are few successful politicians who have not campaigned in this way. I confess I have done it myself.

But not this time. This time I want the people of Northern Ireland to vote for something. I want you to vote to keep Northern Ireland moving forward.

Where others offer fear, we offer hope. Where others seek to destroy, we seek to build and where others seek to divide we seek to unite.

We've all been through election after election where the focus has been on events in Ulster's past. This election is about Ulster's future.

The choice is simple. There are those - like the TUV - who would destroy the hopes of a better future. There are those - like the UUP - who would dither and miss the opportunity of creating a better future, as a party they ran out of steam years ago. They have no plan or ideas for the future. I see no evidence of any recovery in their electoral fortunes. They were too weak to take on Sinn Fein five years ago and are even weaker with their link to the Conservative Party now. They are a party of the past and not of the future.

The DUP are in the business of delivering a better future.

On Election Day, the people of Northern Ireland will get the future they vote for. Come out and secure a brighter and better future.

Let’s keep Northern Ireland moving forward."

Another UUP attack on Unionist Unity

2010-03-23T15:51:00.001Z

Nigel Dodds MP said:

“The latest outburst from UCUNF attacking the idea of Unionist Unity is classic McNarry – sound and fury signifying nothing. One suspects this is a silly attempt to move the news agenda on from the farce that is the UCUNF selection process particularly in South Antrim.

The record of the DUP on the idea of Unionists working together to win seats is clear and consistent. It is not the leader of the DUP who is holding back unity, but rather the unofficial leader of the UUP, David Trimble. I myself stood aside for an Ulster Unionist candidate in 1997 because we did not want to risk North Belfast being won by a nationalist.

The overwhelming majority of people in the pro-Union community want to see both Unionist parties working together to ensure victory at the polls. No amount of abuse directed at the DUP from David McNarry will stop us from working for unity.

David McNarry might be happy to see Gildernew and Alasdair McDonnell representing seats that should be held by a Unionist, but I am not and we make no apology for working to deliver them back to the pro-Union fold.”

Tom, it's time to do the right thing

2010-03-22T15:17:00.002Z

In an impassioned plea for Unionist Unity, the DUP’s Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Arlene Foster said:

“I have said that I am prepared to stand aside for a unity candidate who can give Fermanagh and South Tyrone representation in Westminster . I have known Tom Elliott for many years. I think, left to his own devices, Tom would love to do the same.

I am appealing to Tom to stand with me and say: “we are both willing and prepared to step aside for a unity candidate who can win the seat”. The DUP has said we will support unity and co-operation: that remains our policy.

I don’t care what David Cameron or any other Tory thinks. I care about the people of my area and they deserve Westminster representation. Are we really going to allow this destructive Tory policy of fighting every single seat to hand two key Westminster seats to anti-Unionist candidates?

Ordinary Unionists are really angry at the Tories just breezing in and dictating to those of us who have been in the front line for the Union for many years. Where were the Tories when it was actually difficult to be a Unionist in Northern Ireland ? When people where putting their lives on the line for the Union , they were secretly talking to the IRA behind our backs and plotting to impose the Anglo-Irish Agreement over our heads.

It is time for Tom to do the right thing in Fermanagh and South Tyrone. People from throughout the Unionist community are utterly aghast at the refusal of the UUP up until now to come to some sort of an agreement with fellow-Unionists over these two key Westminster seats. Failure to co-operate will condemn my constituents to another four years of Gildernew. I don’t believe that is what Tom Elliot desires but people deserve to know is it what Reg Empey wants? I urge Tom to stand with me over this issue. He knows it is the right thing to do.”

Just who is leading the Ulster Unionist Party?

2010-03-22T12:21:00.001Z

Upper Bann DUP MP David Simpson said:

"The comments by David Trimble concerning Unionist Unity and co-operation will be music to the ears of Michelle Gildernew and Alasdair McDonnell. He described co-operation between the Unionist parties in a very negative way, using words like sectarian.

Perhaps David Trimble thinks there is something sectarian about Unionists working together to unseat anti-Unionist MPs, but I do not, nor does the overwhelming majority of pro-Union voters who have said they want to see Unionist Unity. People can see that co-operation can deliver 2 seats at the forthcoming election. For the first time in a generation Unionism can gain seats off those who want to dislodge Ulster from the United Kingdom. I utterly refute Trimble's wrecking agenda.

Trimble's comments raise questions about Reg Empey's leadership. Is he prepared to accept a Tory who turned his back on the UUP after being voted out of office dictating the UUP's approach to Unionist Unity? Just who is leading the UUP, Reg Empey or David Trimble?"

33 DAYS TO FIND UNIONIST UNITY

2010-03-10T13:37:00.007Z

Only 33 days remain to give unionists what they clearly want- agreed candidates in constituencies where a unionist can re-take a seat from Sinn Fein or the SDLP. Working on the assumption that the General Election will be held on the 6th May as seems to be the general consensus, nominations will close in 33 days.

A recent Belfast Telegraph poll found that most Unionists wanted the UUP to find agreement with our Party on candidates for key constituencies.

With a hung Parliament an increasing possibility, the number of Unionists returned to Westminster will be absolutely crucial in securing the best possible deal for the people of Northern Ireland. A hung Parliament could offer Unionists a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to make key strategic gains.

Unionism could be so much more potent by pooling resources. There is a groundswell of grassroots support for unionist co-operation. By working together unionists can achieve so much more in terms of delivering stability and prosperity to Northern Ireland.

The DUP stands ready and willing to agree candidates in key constituencies both for Westminster, and future Assembly and local government elections.

The clock is ticking- 33 days and counting!

Potholes in Parliament

2010-03-09T20:30:00.002Z

Simon Hamilton MLA said,

“Jim Shannon has given a quarter of century of service to the people of Strangford, helping them on a whole range of issues, not least on issues about roads maintenance and safety. By contrast, Mike Nesbitt would need sat-nav to find his way around Strangford.

Stick to dealing with “potholes in Portaferry”. That was the condescending advice of Mike Nesbitt to Jim Shannon, the local man who has served this constituency for some 25 years as a councillor and 12 years as an Assembly Member.

Mr. Nesbitt showed clearly that he doesn’t consider dealing with road maintenance issues in the constituency to be a priority for anyone who aspires to be an MP. By the same logic, were he elected he wouldn’t even lobby for proper funding for roads for the Northern Ireland Executive, being obliged to support massive Tory cuts.

Mike is committed, in the very, very unlikely event of being chosen to be our MP to taking the Tory whip at Westminster. As someone who is so focused on Westminster and arrogantly insists that Jim Shannon should stay “on the ground” Mr. Nesbitt should be aware of what is going on at Westminster. He should be aware, but clearly he isn’t.

Anne Main is the Conservative MP for St. Albans. Were he elected, Mike Nesbitt would be taking the same Tory whip as her. This week she has secured an Adjournment Debate in the House of Commons on the subject of Potholes and Road Maintenance!

Perhaps Mr. Nesbitt thinks that Anne Main is not properly representing her constituents? After all, roads maintenance is a local government matter on the mainland. He might not consider the standard of Strangford roads to be important but clearly his colleague Mrs. Main does about roads in St. Albans!

This episode speaks volumes to the aloofness and arrogance of the UCUNF nominee. He sneers at local man Jim Shannon and tells him to concentrate his efforts on issues which he clearly sees as of lesser importance: at the same time a Tory MP is using parliamentary time to debate those very issues!

It takes a rare type of snootiness to look down on a Tory MP, but Mr. Nesbitt seems to have achieved it.”

Successful trip to Stormont for University of Ulster DUP

2010-03-09T00:43:00.001Z

The University of Ulster DUP Assotiation would like to thank all DUP MLAs who received us so warmly at our highly successful trip to Parliament Buildings on Monday March 1. It was heartening to see the strong support given to us by a number of MLAs such as Peter Robinson, Nigel Dodds, Dr Paisley and Ian Paisley Jr, Sammy Wilson, Rev William McCrea, Jim Shannon, Mervyn Storey and Jonathan Bell. Also a special word of thanks must go to Michelle McIllveen for her assistance in getting us in to the Chamber to watch part of the debate on 50/50 police recruitment. A special thanks must also go to Alastair Ross for sponsoring the event for us.

The Association would also like to thank all of our members who turned out on the evening as your support made the event the unquestionable success it was. It was a source of great pride to get such a high turn out even though the Association has only been up and running for just over a year, yet in that time we have achieved much for students at the University. No longer is there a Gaelic Union office promoting a sectarian Sinn Fein agenda from within the Student's Union block, no longer will Jewish students be oppressed by wasteful anti Israel campaigns and no longer are University of Ulster Students subject to to the pitiful NUS-USI, but there must be more change afoot. Rest assured the University of Ulster DUP will be at the forefront at fighting for such change!

Richard McKibbin
Secretary, University of Ulster DUP

Allister frightened of exposure

2010-02-16T10:15:00.004Z

The Unelected Voice, Jim Allister seeks to deny every household in Northern Ireland a copy of the Hillsborough Castle Agreement. He condemns the agreement and claims he is fully opposed to it.

Commenting the First Minister Rt. Hon. Peter Robinson MP said,

“Jim Allister tells us he is opposed to the devolution of policing and justice powers. This is a somersault on his previous position. As a DUP Party Officer he helped to write the 2007 DUP Assembly Manifesto which detailed that the party was in favour of the devolution of those powers.

That manifesto which Jim Allister co-authored said:

“....We support the devolution of policing and justice functions, we believe this can only happen when there is the necessary support within the community…We have ensured that we will determine when policing and justice functions are devolved and can block a Sinn Fein Minister from holding the post.”

- DUP Manifesto, 2007

In addition to writing a manifesto supporting the devolution of policing and justice, Mr. Allister travelled around Northern Ireland singing its praises and knocked doors asking people to vote for it.

He wrote it. He campaigned for it. He asked people to vote for it. Now he says he’s against it. What does that say about his principles? Jim, not the DUP, walked away. The sad reality is that Jim Allister will oppose anything the DUP delivers because it is the DUP that delivers it.

Jim Allister appears terrified by the prospect of the public having free access to the Hillsborough Castle Agreement. After all, if people sit down and read the agreement, they will see just how baseless the TUV allegations actually are.

It is grossly undemocratic of Jim Allister to seek to deny the people of Northern Ireland the right to access information that would enable them to make an informed decision. We are happy to listen to the views of the people. Jim Allister is trying to ensure that his is the only voice heard.”

Uni Of Ulster DUP Association Fully Supports Hillsborough Castle Agreement

2010-02-10T12:20:00.003Z

The University of Ulster DUP Association met on Monday and unanimously supported the new Hillsborough Castle agreement in an association vote on the matter. At the meeting, the association also agreed to highlight a few key matters of interest.

.There will ne NO new North South bodies
.There will be NO SF minister for Policing and Justice
.There will be NO Irish Language Act
.Outstanding issues such as education WILL be addressed, and the overall working of government will be improved.
.There will be no jumping ahead - parades will be completed in the same way as policing.
.As part of the DUP consultation, the UUP will be encouraged to support the transfer of powers.

The Unelected Voice; Jim Allister, who seeks to split Unionist votes from the outside and who condemns this agreement , FULLY supported the P&J commitment in the 2007 DUP mannifesto.

Our association fully supports the DUP's stance on the new arrangements, and we believe that the deal is in the interests of all the people of Northern Ireland.

First Minister: "Law and Order Powers coming home"

2010-02-10T10:07:00.000Z

Below is a piece written by First Minister Peter Robinson MP MLA. Mr Robinson said,

"The DUP made clear it would only do a deal if it was the right deal. After months of discussions we eventually achieved the progress we needed. As we have always outlined, there will now be a period of public consultation on the agreement.

What we have is a fair deal and I urge all Unionists to consider it fully and not fall for the hysterical raving of unionists spinning a Sinn Fein agenda who deep down know much better.

It won’t have escaped people that the spokesman selling the Sinn Fein message with the most relish yesterday was Jim Allister. The same Jim Allister who helped write the DUP manifesto commitment on policing and justice which this agreement fulfils.

We have delivered a new start for parading. This will be the last year of the Parades Commission. I welcome the positive initial reaction from the Loyal Orders as we seek to resolve the parading issue.

Throughout my time in politics I have always believed in Unionists working more closely together. I know Reg Empey and his party have a valuable contribution to make and want to explore ways in which we can make the Executive work better.

Devolution of policing and justice powers will occur on Unionist terms. There will be no Sinn Fein Justice Minister. Unionists have a veto on who will hold this post. The appointment of the judiciary will be free from political interference. No politician will have any role in the appointment of judges. This is a lie peddled by the TUV that has no basis in fact.

We have secured a sound financial settlement of over £800 million to underpin the police and judicial system. Money has been guaranteed for any additional security pressures that may develop. The Chief Constable has indicated that without this financial settlement, the police budget would have £68 million less next year. This is the equivalent of 1,200 police officers having to be sacked.

We have delivered £20 million package for those officers who served as part-time policemen during the most difficult policing period in NI’s history.

We have a manifesto commitment against the introduction of an Irish Language Act. This was due to be introduced by Direct Rule. There will be no Irish language Act.

The DUP made Personal Protection Weapons an issue with the Chief Constable and the Secretary of State. Appeals are now being positively examined and PPWs are being issued. The Security Minister has indicated that in the last month a large number of appeals have been successful. This new approach will ensure that many of those who faced losing their PPWs will have their licences restored.

Yesterday was a good day for Unionism which will further cement Ulster’s place within the United Kingdom."

The completion of Devolution & a new start for parading

2010-02-06T18:11:00.002Z

DUP Leader and First Minister, Rt Hon Peter Robinson MP, today said,

"This is a good day for Northern Ireland. The agreement we have reached today secures the progress that we have made in recent years and keeps Northern Ireland moving forward to a better future.

No future generation would forgive us for squandering the peace that has been so long fought for. Today’s agreement is the surest sign that there will be no going back to the past.

I believe that we have taken a considerable step to secure the prize of a stable and peaceful Northern Ireland. With this agreement I believe that we have laid the foundations for a better future for us all.

Too often we can forget how far we have come in recent years. Today we take for granted the progress that we have made and the relative peace that we have secured. But we can not be complacent.

No sane person wants to go back to the carnage and violence that we have endured for the last generation.

In the next few weeks we will take this agreement to the people of Northern Ireland. We will ask the to endorse the agreement that has been reached today and to take a considerable step forward.

With the necessary community confidence and the faithful implementation of this agreement we will move to agree the devolution of policing and justice on 9th March.

This agreement provides for the completion of devolution and a new start for parading. It will mean a new start for Executive business and a refocusing on the issues that matter to the people of Northern Ireland. And it will mean that the police will have the resources to deal with the challenges that they face.

For too long we have been distracted and diverted by the issue of Policing and Justice. Today is the not just the end of one phase but the beginning of another where we must work to deliver for the people of Northern Ireland.

I do not pretend that this agreement has been easy to reach. Compromises did not come quickly or easily. It has been hard fought on all sides but will be all the more secure for the time that has been invested in it.

Politics is not a spectator sport. This has not been a pretty process. But through the last few weeks the real story is that this is a sign of politics working.

We have faced many difficulties and challenges but this agreement is the surest sign that we are not going back to the bad old days of the past.

Sometimes through painful experience we have learnt many lessons over the last few years. There are some who will play politics with this agreement; that is understandable but the real focus in the months to come must be to build an administration at Stormont that all can identify with and support.

I think that I can speak with some certainty when I say that in coming to this agreement we have not been rushed. I am grateful for the role that the Prime Minister and Secretary of State have played in recent weeks. I am also grateful for the contribution that the Taiseach and the Irish Foreign Minister have played.

This negotiation has been a marathon not a sprint. But I believe that the agreement will be more enduring and secure because of it. I also believe that it is stronger because it has been made in Ulster. While we have had assistance from outside it is local people that made this agreement and will make it work.

We have tested the endurance of the Governments over the last few weeks and once or twice we may have tested their patience as well.

It is almost forty years since the people of Northern Ireland had responsibility for our own policing and justice powers. This agreement provides the potential that in just a few months time we will once again take responsibility for these key powers. This agreement ensures that as a society we continue to move forward to a better future.

I believe that this agreement lays the foundation for a better future for everyone in Northern Ireland and will secure the Assembly for decades to come."