DUP Assembly Member Alastair Ross MLA last night participated in a question panel debate at the University of Ulster in Jordanstown in his own East Antrim constituency. Members of the audience were comprised of students and lecturers who asked questions on the economy, education, minority groups and the role of young people in politics. Commenting after the event, Mr Ross said,
“It is always encouraging when young people take an active interest in politics, and share their views and thoughts on the issues of the day. Political parties must ensure that young people have a voice and that policies are relevant to their lives.
Whilst there were a wide range of questions from the audience, one clear theme emerging was that everyone wanted to see political parties who were committed to building a better Northern Ireland, and had a clear vision for the future.
Whilst people in Northern Ireland have different political aspirations, it is important that in the Assembly we work together to make this part of the world the best region of the United Kingdom so that both unionists and nationalists can benefit from a more peaceful and prosperous future.
The Democratic Unionist Party is committed to achieving that future for our people, and at every level will put the interests of Northern Ireland first, whether that be at Assembly level, in our national Parliament at Westminster or at the European Parliament. We are also determined to protect small business and attract the type of foreign investment that will help to create new jobs.
Devolution has allowed locally elected politicians to govern Northern Ireland, and although at times this has been challenging, things are immeasurably better than when we were under direct rule. The Assembly, although not perfect, is the best means by which we can deliver the brighter and better Northern Ireland that we aspire to.
The DUP is distinct amongst unionist parties in unashamedly putting Northern Ireland first. Unlike the TUV we do not want to see a return to direct rule, when unaccountable Ministers in conjunction with the Irish Government will make decisions on matters relating to Northern Ireland, in many cases without debate in the House of Commons, and unionists are powerless to do anything about it. Our experience over many years has surely taught us that lesson.
Likewise the DUP does not subscribe to the UUP idea of linking up with the Conservative Party. We have already seen that they are putting the wishes of their senior colleagues first by ruling out agreed candidates in South Belfast and Fermanagh South Tyrone. On how many other occasions will they put the interests of the Tory Party before the interests of unionism and Northern Ireland?
We believe in working with all major parties in Westminster, yet being shackled to none. That allows us to take decisions based exclusively on whether or not Northern Ireland will benefit. Whilst playing a full part in British politics, and strengthening our links with the rest of the UK, we are determined to make Northern Ireland the most successful part of the United Kingdom, and that is best achieved by remaining independent in the Commons, and always putting Northern Ireland first.”
