In 2001 I made clear my wish to run for Westminster and stop Sinn Fein/IRA from winning Fermanagh and South Tyrone. A wide spectrum of unionists supported me but others thought differently putting internal party interests first and splitting unionism.

Many unionists told me they believed I would have beaten Michelle Gildernew in 2001 had I been given the chance and that the same mistake must not happen again. My goal is to return to this unfinished business and give unionists the chance to now evict Michelle Gildernew as MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone.

To maximise this opportunity, the DUP offered to make a pact with the Ulster Unionists in the two constituencies where unionist co-operation could win the seats. As overwhelmingly the main party in unionism,we could have demanded to run as standard bearers in both seats but instead we generously offered the UUP the choice of which seat they preferred to contest. Unfortunately the UUP still insist they should run in both seats.

I will not be distracted from my focus on defeating Sinn Fein. This constituency can take no pride in being represented by someone connected to a party with links to murderers, terrorists and bank-robbers. The choice is about electing a fit and proper democrat of good reputation or an associate of terrorists and criminals who will continue to leave a stain on the image of Fermanagh and South Tyrone.

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