UCUNF treated the local electorate with contempt. As did Peter Robinson. Both crashed and burned this evening.
A fascinating evening for political anoraks. But also some encouraging signs of progress. In particular, Naomi Long in East Belfast. I may not agree with Alliance policies (and Naomi, along with 2 other local women MPs, would be considered left of centre) but it is very encouraging to see a candidate standing for non-sectarian politics being elected in what used to be a solid DUP constituency.
More analysis of UCUNF’s dreadful performance over on Ulster’s Doomed
Jeff, you have been trying to bury the UCU project for a long time. You should step back and think about what you really want. The UCU project was (and still is) a worthwhile project. With decisive and dynamic leadership, it can still happen. The Conservatives on their own are going nowhere in NI. It’s better to have an imperfect grouping with good long term goals than a ‘pure’ small group with no future. Some would say you are the new Dr No of NI politics!
You rather over-state my importance. Naomi Long last night won – against all the odds – by taking a principled stand. I don’t agree with many Alliance policies but she was the real victor last night. She won for all the right reasons. You say the Conservatives are going nowhere on their own…but, believe me, they’re going nowhere with UCUNF. Just look at last night’s result. Oh and while you’re at it look at the turnout. Fact is nearly 50% of our electorate chose “none of the above”. Turnout here was massively lower than in GB where they were voting on real issues – and where the Conservatives didn’t need to gerrymander to keep a Catholic out. UCUNF was an insult to the local electorate, to the Conservative brand and to decent UUP voters.
I am not important – I’m no longer party aligned. But I will always argue for real, untainted, and non-sectarian politics to be established here. Call me an idealist or purist if you like. Frankly I couldn’t care less.
I agree UCUNF is dead. Jeff, but what has happened to “Conservatives in Northern Ireland” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conservatives_in_Northern_Ireland
Has Paterson destroyed the NI Tories after 20 years and are they dead as well as
UCUNF after their members were led up the garden path by Empey and Cameron.
Is Ian Parsley the only member left? And now Alliance is making a comeback with
that unusual win in the election by Mrs Long in East Belfast, do you think Parsley will rejoin alliance before the next assembly elections?
UUP member – I wouldn’t be at all surprised.
The local Exec just lay over and let Paterson/Caine tickle their tummies. I know that an Area Council meeting is planned and then an AGM. I’d expect that heads will roll. I’m just not sure anyone will care.
As for Parsley, I’m not sure he’d be welcomed back to Alliance. I think he’ll just go to that place that other failed politicians go…