Sinn Féin take initiative on nationalist representation

April 20, 2010

Sinn Féin South Belfast candidate Alex Maskey today withdrew his nomination for the forthcoming Westminster election. The Sinn Féin decision to maximise nationalist representation comes after a unionist unity candidate was put forward in Fermanagh and South Tyrone and the SDLP rebuffed earlier discussions on an electoral pact. This Sinn Féin initiative is aimed at protecting the two nationalist seats under threat from unionism

Speaking in Enniskillen this afternoon, where he was accompanied by Alex Maskey and Michelle Gildernew, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams said:

“This is a bold leadership initiative by Sinn Féin. It is about protecting and defending two nationalist seats.

“The decision by the unionist parties at the behest of the Orange Order and with the connivance of the British Tory party to come together and agree a unity candidate here in Fermanagh South Tyrone changed the political dynamic of this election. Despite our profound differences with the SDLP Sinn Féin believe that nationalist representation should be maximised and protected.

“I wrote to Margaret Ritchie about this after it was clear that nationalists on the doorsteps were demanding such a move. Unfortunately the SDLP leader would not meet with me to discuss this issue.

“Margaret Ritchie failed her first leadership test. Sinn Féin today is demonstrating leadership in the wider interests of nationalism not for narrow party political concerns. We have taken this unilateral initiative with the sole aim of maximising nationalist representation by standing aside in South Belfast. I believe that this initiative will be widely welcomed by nationalists Although there will be understandable disappointment in South Belfast that they will not have a republican candidate.

“This is a decision by Sinn Féin for this election only. Alex will continue to provide top class representation across the South Belfast constituency Our vote in South Belfast under Alex Maskey has been on a steady increase. I believe this will continue in the Assembly elections next year. ENDS