Westminster vote grounds for progress: Parsley

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Sun 8th May 2005

Young Alliance Chairman Ian James Parsley has stated that the party's Westminster vote shows Alliance can make progress.

"I would like to thank all those in Alliance's youth wing who put the work in to ensure an increase in the party's vote at Westminster level. This constitutes grounds for progress.

"Compared to 2003, our vote share increased in 10 of the 12 constituencies contested, and even where it didn't there is clear evidence it is because of tactical voting. Our vote alongside Kieran Deeny's in West Tyrone shows our message that we cannot afford the economic or social costs of ongoing segregation resonated with people across Northern Ireland.'

'What we are saying to people now is that, if you agreed with our message, do not just wish your own party had said similar. If you agreed with our

message, we are your party!'

"The battles within Unionism and Nationalism have been won. Now it is time we collectively faced a much bigger battle -- that between tribal carve-up and real democracy. Only Alliance provides the foundation to win that battle."

ENDS