Time for the 'Liberal Alternative'

12.50.00am BST (GMT +0100) Tue 30th May 2006

Young Alliance Chairman Ian James Parsley

Young Alliance Chairman Ian James Parsley has told fellow European Liberals that many people in Northern Ireland recognize the need for a 'Liberal Alternative' to the populist nationalistic politics of the larger parties.

The North Down Councillor stated: "My vision is one of a genuinely Liberal alternative to tired sectarian politics. One where Northern Ireland citizens come first - free to choose their religious identity and national affiliation, but also free to make their own decisions on the real issues free from sectarian carve-ups.

"Liberals recognize people's right to choose a strong religious ethos in their children's education - but not at the taxpayers' expense. Liberals recognize people's right to choose a national identity - but not to reject the rule of law. Liberals recognize people's right to speak the language they wish to, play the games they wish to, and assembly publicly as they wish to - but not with Government money.

"Billions of pounds in Northern Ireland are not just wasted on segregated services. They go towards backing up a biased religious ethos in taxpayer-funded schools, clearing up after violence and rioting, and propping up 'culture' that no one is interested in other than for divisive political purposes. These are backed up in legislation by refusal to implement fair employment practices in schools, providing millions of pounds in hand-outs as a reward for rioting, and spending money on made-up culture for no other reason than 'the other side is getting it'.

"In short, Liberals know that policies must be based on the individual - on judging people on merit, protecting the rights of each citizen equally, and ensuring individual freedom. How can you believe in 'minority rights'

if you do not base your politics on the smallest minority of all - the individual?

"You cannot overcome divisions by promoting sectarian carve-up and historical myth. You cannot introduce stability by accepting violence and gangsterism. And you cannot deliver prosperity by allowing hypocrisy to run rampant. It is time we based 'mutual respect', 'human rights' and 'justice' on each and every Northern Ireland citizen individually, ensuring their equality under the law, maximizing their freedom of choice, and demanding they take responsibility for their actions.

"That is what the Liberal Alternative is all about."

ENDS