‘The DUP and UUP should continue to work together’ says poll victor

Re-elected as Lagan Valley MP, Jeffrey Donaldson spoke of evident “unionist unity” during the election and said the DUP and UUP should continue to work together.
Jeffrey Donaldson celebrates with DUP colleagues after topping the poll at the Lagan Valley election count. US1519-501cd  Picture: Cliff DonaldsonJeffrey Donaldson celebrates with DUP colleagues after topping the poll at the Lagan Valley election count. US1519-501cd  Picture: Cliff Donaldson
Jeffrey Donaldson celebrates with DUP colleagues after topping the poll at the Lagan Valley election count. US1519-501cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

“This has been a good election for unionism,” he said, “and we return to Parliament with more seats and more votes.

“The unionist unity that was displayed in a number of constituencies has been well received and the DUP and UUP should continue to work together as we face the challenge of nationalism, both at Westminster and here in Northern Ireland.

“Our priority must be to protect the integrity of United Kingdom and to strengthen our economy and attract investment in Northern Ireland.

“The Conservative Party has been elected into government but with a small majority.

“This means that unionists can have considerable influence in this parliament and we must use it to good effect.”

Delighted and honoured, he said, have been re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Lagan Valley for a fifth term in the House of Commons, he said it was particularly rewarding - in an election contest where there were no fewer than nine candidates standing in the constituency - to see his vote increase by almost a thousand and his majority rise to 13,000. I want to thank everyone who came out to vote for me in this and previous elections,” he said, “ and I will do my best to repay the trust that has been placed in me.

“The other candidates are to be commended for putting their names before the electorate and fighting a good natured campaign that concentrated on the policy issues rather than the personalities.

“I also want to thank my Election Agent Uel Mackin who organised a superb campaign and my colleagues Brenda Hale, Edwin Poots, Paul Givan and Jonathan Craig who led the campaign on the ground. We have an excellent team in Lagan Valley, with our MLAs, councillors and party members playing a vital role in putting up posters, canvassing the doors and being present at the polling stations on election day.

“The excellent result in Lagan Valley is a testament to their hard work and commitment.”

Mr Donaldson said he would be a voice for all his constituents and woukd continue to work hard for all the people of Lagan Valley whom he had the privilege of representing in the national parliament.