UUP Leader Sir Reg Empey supports Louis West on visit to Shankill Road
Ulster Leader Sir Reg Empey visited the Shankill Road today to support Ulster Unionist candidate for West Belfast Louis West.
During his visit to the Shankill Road, Sir Reg talked to the local people about their hopes for devolution and the issues facing them in their every day lives.
Sir Reg said: “Hard pressed families are facing water charges and increases to their domestic rates. This is unbearable, particularly for young families in the area. It is unsustainable and fundamentally unfair.
“The one way to get a fairer alternative, to ensure fairness for all, is to get devolved locally accountable government up and running here.“
UUP candidate Mr West, who has spent a lifetime in community development work in the Greater Shankill area, said: “Having worked on housing issues and been involved in community work in the Shankill community for most of my life, two issues are coming across loud and clear - private rents are too high, and there not enough social housing.
“This is putting pressure on the community and is driving the local population away.”
He added: “Young people need hope. They need to be equipped to seize opportunity. That means ensuring that our young people have the skills necessary to successfully gain employment.
“A recent House of Commons report has found that the numeracy and literacy skills among Protestant communities are low. Our children are being failed.
“Proper investment in schools and support for our teachers is vital to providing hope and opportunity for all.”