Allister relishes election
28 March 2009
Extract from a speech by TUV Leader Jim Allister QC MEP to dinner in Limavady organised by the local TUV branch:-
“In less than 10 weeks
Time is running out for those whose fingerprints are all over the Martin McGuinness’ title deeds to the office of Joint First Minister. As they run, they try to wrap themselves in the see-through garb of pretending great concern about the bit player, Barbara de Brun. You can’t promote the Arch-godfather McGuinness to the highest office and expect to be taken seriously when you cry “Stop Barbara”!
Nor, can they blame anyone else for their choices. The DUP voluntarily and even with chuckling glee clutched Sinn Fein to their bosom in government. So, the Nurembourg defence won’t wash.
Nor, can you make Sinn Fein your partner in government and laud McGuinness as “positive”, and then pretend they are your enemy at the polls. No, sadly, the DUP see the real enemy at the polls as Traditional Unionism. It must be liquidated for the mandatory coalition project to survive, because if it isn’t smashed now, there’ll be so many TUV members in the next Assembly that the dream will be over.
As this election approaches my confidence grows of a great disappointment for the DUP/Sinn Fein coalition. I meet Unionists every day who, far from being overwhelmed by the spin and imbalance of the media, can’t wait to get to the polls to reject Sinn Fein government. Unionists who feel cheated and short-changed by broken promises and Unionists who still believe what is morally wrong can never be politically right.
I also meet many who appreciate the job done at home and abroad over the past 5 years and who think experience and ability count. Many who are unimpressed by the sudden election interest of some in all things European and who are bemused at the inner interest in agriculture which was suddenly discovered buried deeper than potatoes in a career of city representation.
So, bring on the election, I say and if it is to be about who really opposes Sinn Fein, then, I’ll be very happy to let the electorate decide.”
