UUP believes co-option is only option for Dromore seat
In a statement today a spokesman for the Ulster Unionist Party commented ahead of the Council meeting tomorrow night in Banbridge that seeks to replace the out-going UUP Councillor Tyrone Howe.
The spokesman said,
Tyrone Howe has acted appropriately and has shown the respect for the office of Councillor that it deserves. By his own admission he felt that he could not devote the time and energy necessary to properly fulfil the function. In stepping down he has acted honourably and sensibly.
The people of Dromore want to see a local person, who is easy to get the hold off and focused on Dromore elected. That person is Carol Black who was selected by the UUP to go for the seat on Saturday 15 December. Mrs. Black is a mother of two who is in her mid 40’s and has lived in Dromore for 17 years. Her children have attended both Dromore Central Primary School and Dromore High School.
The DUP have suggested that if the UUP does not select their preferred choice of replacement for Mr Howe then they would not suggest a co-option but may challenge us in a by-election. It is an utterly ridiculous proposition for a rival political party to be suggesting what candidates another political party should run.
A co-option would be the normal course of events when a member resigns and that is what the UUP believes should happen at the Banbridge Council meeting tomorrow night. There is no need for a by election that would cost the rate payers £25,000 and is asking the voters to come out in the middle of winter. But if it comes to it the UUP is prepared and ready to fight one.”