Calvert says he is 'opposed to the Stormont Shambles'

He went on: "I am the only candidate opposed to terrorists in government and to the disastrous shambles at Stormont. A first preference vote for anyone other than David Calvert will count as endorsement of the Stormont Shambles and the gifting of the vital powers of policing and justice to an executive in which IRA/Sinn Fein has a veto over all decisions.

"For unionists there are only two choices in this by-election. They can either vote for a candidate who has no experience as an elected representative and who supports Sinn Fein in government or they can vote for the TUV representative who has experience as an elected representative at both council and Stormont level.

"Furthermore, TUV are absolutely opposed to terrorist-inclusive government as represented by Sinn Fein/IRA. As there are less than 18 months of this Council to run, now is not the time to elect a novice with no experience. What Lurgan requires is a councillor who will hit the ground running from day one."

He went on: "Craigavon Borough Council further requires an experienced councillor who has political integrity and will not be afraid to take on the never-ending demands of Sinn Fein/IRA. The days of push-over unionism are gone. Too many of our present Unionist councillors have already given up the fight. Electing a Trimble unionist who will cave in to every republican demand would not be in the best interests of unionism.

"It is disgraceful that almost 100 different items of our British culture and symbols such as military plaques, UDR Pipe Band Banner and photographs of Freedom of Borough Ceremonies have already been removed from display in the Civic Centre. It is now further proposed that the Queen’s portrait be removed from display. If elected, I will lead the opposition to any such proposal.

"Lurgan needs a councillor who will put Lurgan first, will fight to reduce the rates burden and will demand that real and meaningful regeneration of our town centre be implemented, and not the present scheme which is only cosmetic and of no value to the traders and with even less parking spaces on the main street for the shopping public. For too long we have played second fiddle to other parts of the borough. In the midst of an economic recession Lurgan requires forthright action and a new beginning. I trust that I will be given the opportunity of representing you to ensure that Lurgan and the village areas get their fair share of facilities and financial support."