Allister and Gaston to stand in North Antrim

Jim Allister for many is the authentic voice of Opposition in Stormont and scourge of its waste and failure. He has demonstrated his ability to deliver not just accountability but positive legislative change, like Ann’s Law - banning terrorists as Special Advisers and obtaining pension parity for RUC widows. Named by BBC ‘The View’ as the best MLA in Stormont. A QC he knows how to fight his corner. He lives near Kells with his wife Ruth.

Timothy Gaston is a Bannside councillor, where he famously topped the poll in 2014. Now concluding an incredibly active and successful year as Deputy Mayor of Mid & East Antrim Borough Council, he is ready to serve in Stormont.

Young and enthusiastic he works exceptionally hard for his constituents. Born and bred in North Antrim he cares deeply about its prosperity and future. Works as a Fire, Health and Safety Officer in Ballymena.

Commenting Jim Allister said: “It has been a delight to serve the people of North Antrim in Stormont. I believe my record will stand scrutiny as I seek a renewal of my mandate. Indeed, because of the growth for support in North Antrim for TUV I am delighted to be joined on the ballot by Timothy Gaston. Timothy has proven himself as a very effective up and coming politician who will greatly enhance the TUV ticket. Together we can deliver even more at Stormont.

“In an age of blandness in politics people know where they stand with TUV. Some wonder if the UUP will return to government with IRA/Sinn Fein after the election, others ponder if the DUP will ever stop sustaining Martin McGuinness as joint First Minister, but no one doubts where TUV stands. We tell it as it is.

“TUV is clear: we reject terrorists in government and the system of rigged devolution that keeps them there. Our vision is no special places for anyone, but devolution based on voluntary coalition and an effective Opposition.

The basic democratic right to change your government, the right to vote a party out of government and the right to have an opposition are at the heart of the TUV’s positive approach.”

Councillor Gaston added, “Serving the people is a privilege, not a chore. With economic downturn hitting North Antrim hard through the loss of JTI and Michelin, the need for the sort of diligent service which TUV gives is greater than ever. TUV doesn’t do halfhearted either in politics or in service. We want to make things better for North Antrim and see it attain the great potential its hardworking people deserve.

“We’ve seen in Jim Allister what one determined TUV MLA can do. Now is the time to strengthen his hand and secure an even greater return for unionism and the people through the unwavering stand of TUV.”