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19/04/2023
NIO Attitude 'Patronising' To Unionist Concerns – DUP
The DUP has accused the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) of "patronising" unionist concerns, and urged NI Secretary, Chris Heaton-Harris, to remember the core principle of the Belfast and successor Agreements is cross community support.
DUP East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said: "The NIO's approach today has been patronising towards unionist concerns and stands in contrast to their approach when Sinn Fein blocked devolved government for three years over the Irish language.
"The Government must realise that getting the foundations right, supported by unionists as well as nationalists, rather than personal attacks and blackmail will restore Stormont.
"The Secretary of State's rhetoric for the QUB audience was more akin to a speech by a clueless Irish American congressman rather than a UK Government Cabinet Minister.
"This is about taking our time to get it right. We need stable and sustainable devolved government. For those who have forgotten, over the last 25 years, political progress in NI was hard won and is built on the foundation of support from unionists and nationalists. Not one unionist MLA supported the NI Protocol and that was the critical mistake.
"There is no solid basis for an Executive and Assembly until we have arrangements that restore NI's place in the U.K. internal market and our constitutional arrangements are respected."
DUP East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson said: "The NIO's approach today has been patronising towards unionist concerns and stands in contrast to their approach when Sinn Fein blocked devolved government for three years over the Irish language.
"The Government must realise that getting the foundations right, supported by unionists as well as nationalists, rather than personal attacks and blackmail will restore Stormont.
"The Secretary of State's rhetoric for the QUB audience was more akin to a speech by a clueless Irish American congressman rather than a UK Government Cabinet Minister.
"This is about taking our time to get it right. We need stable and sustainable devolved government. For those who have forgotten, over the last 25 years, political progress in NI was hard won and is built on the foundation of support from unionists and nationalists. Not one unionist MLA supported the NI Protocol and that was the critical mistake.
"There is no solid basis for an Executive and Assembly until we have arrangements that restore NI's place in the U.K. internal market and our constitutional arrangements are respected."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
