TUV announces new recruit
12 September 2008
Traditional Unionist Voice is pleased to announce that Lyle Rea, former Chief Executive of the UUP, has joined TUV.
Mr Rea was one of those Ulster Unionists who joined the DUP with Jeffrey Donaldson, believing the DUP would not embrace the Belfast Agreement, as the UUP had done, only to be severely disillusioned by the DUP's enthusiastic acceptance of IRA/Sinn Fein into government. Lyle Rea, who was Vice-Chairman of his local DUP branch in Dromore and who was their election agent in the Dromore By-election, handed in his resignation to the DUP last month.
On joining TUV Lyle Rea said, "Having been uncomfortable with DUP policy for some time and having come to share Jim Allister's political analysis and admiring his stand, I have reached the considered conclusion that Traditional Unionist Voice best represents the values and principles in which I believe. I joined the DUP believing it would hold firm and stand for traditional unionist principles, but as events have unfolded I, like many others, have experienced great disappointment. I cannot go on supporting a Party and policies which has put IRA/Sinn Fein at the heart of government. Hence, my decision to join TUV."
Welcoming Lyle Rea to TUV Jim Allister MEP said, "As we continue to experience Party growth across the Province I am pleased to welcome Lyle Rea on board. A man of calibre and wide experience he will strengthen our cause. Lyle's move confirms a very distinct trend, especially within Lagan Valley, where many former Ulster Unionists who joined the DUP with Jeffrey Donaldson, trusting they would not be let down again, have now moved over to TUV, as the only Party still standing for traditional Unionist principles. We look forward to this trend continuing, especially as the unworkability of Belfast Agreement devolution becomes clearer with every day that passes."
As TUV moves towards a public meeting in Lagan Valley next Friday (19th) night in Lisburn Orange Hall, Mr Rea's defection is seen as a significant boost. Lyle Rea has a long history of involvement with the agricultural and business sector, having spent many years as Agricultural Director with RUAS.
There will be a photo opportunity at 10am today (Friday) in Dromore Town Square when Jim Allister MEP, Keith Harbinson and local Councillors will welcome Lyle Rea into the Party
ENDS
