UUP Will Take its Seats in Government and Move Beyond Failed Politics of the Past - Sir Reg
Speaking at the launch of the UUP manifesto today, Ulster Unionist Party Leader Sir Reg Empey has said that UUP is the only party prepared to pledge that we will take our seats in government and govern for the good of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom.
On 7th of March we all have an opportunity of moving beyond the stale, failed politics of the past – and forming a devolved government that will put Northern Ireland first, the UUP candidate added.
In a statement, the UUP Leader said: “Northern Ireland faces many challenges – building the competitiveness of our economy; investing in a health service free for all and education that offers opportunity to all; protecting our environment; securing a fair and just society.
“With these challenges, however, comes opportunity – above all, the opportunity of moving Northern Ireland forward.
“For this to happen we need devolved government – government accountable to the people of Northern Ireland.
“We deserve better than unaccountable Direct Rule government through part-time Ministers not elected by the people of Northern Ireland.”
He added: “The Direct Rule Ministers have looked on as mere spectators while our manufacturing sector has bled. Our manifesto commits us to a strategy for the manufacturing sector as a powerhouse of a regional knowledge-based economy, with a competitive tax regime and a skilled workforce.
“Our manifesto commits us to delivering free personal care for the elderly – ensuring welfare, dignity and security for those who have worked and saved throughout their lives.
“In a week in which UNICEF showed the extent to which the UK is failing our children, the Ulster Unionist manifesto commits to the UK target of eradicating child poverty by 2020.
“From this room we can see something of the beauty of our natural environment, one of Northern Ireland’s most precious assets. Our environment should be protected and passed on to future generations. That is why the Ulster Unionist manifesto commits to the creation of an Environmental Protection Agency.”
Concluding the UUP leader said: “The Ulster Unionist Party is prepared for the challenges and ready to make the most of the opportunities for everyone in Northern Ireland. We are the only Party prepared to pledge to you, the voters, that we will take our seats in government and govern for the good of Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom.
“On 7th of March we all have an opportunity of moving beyond the stale, failed politics of the past – and forming a devolved government that will put Northern Ireland first.”