DUP appeal for more unionist co-operation

In a press release issued after its most recent branch meeting Craigavon DUP said: “At the 2007 Northern Ireland Assembly Election unionism won four seats in Upper Bann. The fourth seat was almost lost to Sinn Fein.

“The DUP is clear on this matter. We wish to ensure that this fourth unionist-held Assembly seat is retained. We are of the view that where co-operation among unionists and between unionist parties is possible it should take place. We view this as positive and beneficial for unionism.

"On an issue such as the retention of the fourth unionist-held Assembly seat in Upper Bann we are of the view that unionists ought to co-operate in order to achieve that.

“Following its October 2010 meeting, the Craigavon Branch of the Democratic Unionist Party wishes to place on record our concern at the increased possibility that the fourth unionist-held Upper Bann Assembly seat could be lost to Sinn Fein.

“This possibility has been substantially increased as a result of the public rejection by the Ulster Unionist Upper Bann Association of any kind of co-operation to that end.”

The DUP added: “We view with dismay this public rejection by the UUP of the DUP’s offer to co-operate with us in order to help ensure the retention of that fourth unionist-held Assembly seat.

“We wish to once again appeal to the Upper Bann UUP Association to reverse that public rejection of our call for co-operation. By co-operating together we can help to maximise unionist strength in Upper Bann. We would appeal to our fellow unionists to think again.”