Alliance Slams SDLP 'Border Poll' Proposal

9.52.16am GMT Wed 28th Feb 2007

North Down Alliance Representative Stephen Farry

North Down Alliance Assembly candidate, Stephen Farry, has slammed the SDLP for proposing that there should be a 'border poll' once stability is restored to Northern Ireland, point out that a 'border poll' is actually the most destabilising event possible.

Dr Farry stated:

"The last thing that Northern Ireland needs is a 'border poll'.

"It is beggars belief that the SDLP would argue on the on hand that Northern Ireland needs stability, and on the other hand that, once a stable executive is in place, there should be a 'border poll' which would destabilise Northern Ireland.

"At a time when the emphasis needs to be on partnership within Northern Ireland and creating a shared future, a 'border poll' would be hugely polarising. It would only serve to further entrench division.

"Alliance respects the right of the people of Northern Ireland to determine their own constitutional status. But there is no reason in having a 'border poll' unless there is clear indication of a potentially different outcome from the status quo. A 'border poll' is more than a pointless headcount, it risks setting back the prospects of political progress."

ENDS