Speaking at the opening of Diane Dodd’s new constituency office in West Belfast today, DUP European election candidate Jim Allister QC said, “There is a new sense of confidence in the unionist community.  The West Belfast Assembly result epitomised the resurgence of the unionist spirit and itself provided momentum to the Provincewide revival in unionist fortunes.

Diane Dodd’s fantastic victory was “can do” unionism in action.  Sinn Fein’s goal of capturing 5 seats in West Belfast was stopped in its tracks by the mobilisation and unity of purpose of a unionist people determined to be heard.  Now unionists in West Belfast, who for years had to endure republican misrepresentation, have an authentic voice and can hold their heads high.  This new constituency office demonstrates that they have also the benefit of an Assembly Member committed to working on their behalf.

In the European election we can again put Sinn Fein in its place.  Their ambition is to top this poll and then strut the world stage claiming to be the voice of Ulster.  Unionist voters must not let that happen.  Unionism speaks for Ulster, not republicanism.  Hence, a unionist must top this poll.  Just as the DUP, as the strongest party, led the unionist vote in West Belfast, so we will again lead unionism to the top of the Euro poll”.

Jim Allister made these remarks at the opening of Diane Dodd’s new constituency office on the Shankill Road in West Belfast this afternoon.  The official opening was performed by Party Leader, Dr Ian Paisley MP MEP MLA, with Deputy Leader Peter Robinson MP MLA and North Belfast MP Nigel Dodds also in attendance.