Menu
04/05/2005
Candidate declares South Belfast a ‘two-horse’ race
UUP Westminster candidate Michael McGimpsey has claimed he is “forging ahead” of DUP opponent Jimmy Spratt in the race to garner unionist votes in South Belfast.
Mr McGimpsey said he had “scientific and detailed analysis” of 22 areas in the constituency which showed that he was in front with nearly 33% of the total vote, SDLP deputy leader Alistair McDonnell on nearly 32% and Mr Spratt trailing on 20%.
“South Belfast is now very firmly a two-horse race with Spratt taking a breather by the embankment, having achieved his objective of undermining Unionism,” Mr McGimpsey said.
“People in the constituency need to turn out to vote as never before, the SDLP are not far behind me thanks to the DUP splitting the vote.”
Last month, Mr McGimpsey denied his election campaign had been dealt a blow when it was confirmed that a South Belfast branch of the party had disbanded because its members want to back Mr Spratt.
Branch president, Margaret Clarke, who works for outgoing UUP MP Martin Smyth, said the 15 members of the Willowfield branch did not support the party's candidate Michael McGimpsey.
One week prior to this, former UUP leader Lord Molyneaux and Mr Smyth were photographed with Mr Spratt. This was seized on by the DUP as expressing support for the former chief of the RUC Federation.
Mr McGimpsey denied that the photograph was an endorsement, “despite DUP spin”.
(MB/SP)
Mr McGimpsey said he had “scientific and detailed analysis” of 22 areas in the constituency which showed that he was in front with nearly 33% of the total vote, SDLP deputy leader Alistair McDonnell on nearly 32% and Mr Spratt trailing on 20%.
“South Belfast is now very firmly a two-horse race with Spratt taking a breather by the embankment, having achieved his objective of undermining Unionism,” Mr McGimpsey said.
“People in the constituency need to turn out to vote as never before, the SDLP are not far behind me thanks to the DUP splitting the vote.”
Last month, Mr McGimpsey denied his election campaign had been dealt a blow when it was confirmed that a South Belfast branch of the party had disbanded because its members want to back Mr Spratt.
Branch president, Margaret Clarke, who works for outgoing UUP MP Martin Smyth, said the 15 members of the Willowfield branch did not support the party's candidate Michael McGimpsey.
One week prior to this, former UUP leader Lord Molyneaux and Mr Smyth were photographed with Mr Spratt. This was seized on by the DUP as expressing support for the former chief of the RUC Federation.
Mr McGimpsey denied that the photograph was an endorsement, “despite DUP spin”.
(MB/SP)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
20 April 2005
South Belfast election blow for UUP
The Ulster Unionist Party was dealt an election blow today when it was confirmed that a South Belfast branch of the party has disbanded because its members want to back the DUP's Westminster candidate Jimmy Spratt.
South Belfast election blow for UUP
The Ulster Unionist Party was dealt an election blow today when it was confirmed that a South Belfast branch of the party has disbanded because its members want to back the DUP's Westminster candidate Jimmy Spratt.
11 April 2005
UUP pair pictured 'supporting' DUP candidate
The Ulster Unionist Party was facing an embarrassing pre-election snub today when two of its most high profile members allegedly expressed support for the DUP candidate for South Belfast. Former UUP leader Lord Molyneaux and outgoing South Belfast MP Rev.
UUP pair pictured 'supporting' DUP candidate
The Ulster Unionist Party was facing an embarrassing pre-election snub today when two of its most high profile members allegedly expressed support for the DUP candidate for South Belfast. Former UUP leader Lord Molyneaux and outgoing South Belfast MP Rev.
28 November 2003
Final results in for 2003 NI Assembly election
UPDATE: With all counts declared on Friday evening the clear winners are the Rev Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionist Party who have claimed 10 more seats on the Assembly and Sinn Féin who have won 6 seats.
Final results in for 2003 NI Assembly election
UPDATE: With all counts declared on Friday evening the clear winners are the Rev Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionist Party who have claimed 10 more seats on the Assembly and Sinn Féin who have won 6 seats.
13 November 2008
Funding Boost Will Build For Belfast's Future Health
The Health Minister has announced plans to invest £180 million in capital over the next three years to improve health and social care services and facilities in the Belfast Trust area. Much needed jobs in the construction industry will also flow from the massive investment in new developments as well as an upgrade of existing services.
Funding Boost Will Build For Belfast's Future Health
The Health Minister has announced plans to invest £180 million in capital over the next three years to improve health and social care services and facilities in the Belfast Trust area. Much needed jobs in the construction industry will also flow from the massive investment in new developments as well as an upgrade of existing services.
28 September 2015
Pengelly Named New DUP MLA For South Belfast
Ms Emma Pengelly has been appointed the new DUP MLA for south Belfast after it was announced Jimmy Spratt is to stand down. Ms Pengelly is a barrister who served as special adviser to the First Minister focusing on policy issues such as victims and survivors, good relations and social change along with providing legal and other advice.
Pengelly Named New DUP MLA For South Belfast
Ms Emma Pengelly has been appointed the new DUP MLA for south Belfast after it was announced Jimmy Spratt is to stand down. Ms Pengelly is a barrister who served as special adviser to the First Minister focusing on policy issues such as victims and survivors, good relations and social change along with providing legal and other advice.
-
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.
