Redpath hands in nomination papers

As he handed in his nomination papers, Mr Redpath detailed his policies for the upcoming poll next month.

“We are just over a month away from the Westminster Elections,” he said. “I look forward to pounding the streets and talking to local residents about the key points in this election.

“I am passionate about protecting local services especially in the National Health Service. In this challenging financial environment Lagan Valley needs an MP who will stand up for local services. One example of this is the recent “temporary” reduction of hours in the Lagan Valley Hospital. This reduction in hours needs to be wholeheartedly opposed and we need to use the time that is available to us to convince the health trust to reverse this reduction in hours. Failing that the trust needs to deliver the promised Minor Injuries Unit at the Lagan Valley to reduce pressure on surrounding A and Es which are in crisis.

“Another priority for me in the upcoming election will be ensuring a fair deal for veterans and their families. Veterans throughout the United Kingdom should be benefitting from the commitments laid down in the Military Covenant. This Covenant makes promises about the level of support Veterans can expect during and after their military services in areas ranging from housing to retraining to medical support. Owing to the opposition of certain parties in the Northern Ireland executive the covenant has yet to be fully implemented in Northern Ireland. If elected as your MP I will do all in my power to change this and ensure that veterans in Northern Ireland enjoy the same treatment and protection as their counterparts in the UK.

“Finally if elected your MP I will be a tireless champion for local business. I will fight to remove restrictions on development at the Maze and at Sprucefield to attract new investment and new jobs for Lagan Valley.”

Commenting on Mr Redpath’s nomination Ulster Unionist Leader Mike Nesbitt commented: “Alex Redpath is an exceptionally effective political representative who works hard on the ground, listens to people, and gets things done, fast. I have no doubt that he would carry forward his excellent track record of service on Lisburn and Castlereagh Council at Westminster. I was delighted to note that two very strong candidates put themselves forward for selection in Lagan Valley as the Ulster Unionist candidate for the General Election. This shows the strength and depth of our public representatives in this area.”