Jim Nicholson has submitted his nomination papers to the electoral office for the European elections.
Mr Nicholson said:
“I am asking the people of Northern Ireland to place their trust in me on the 22nd of May. At a time of uncertainty about the UK's future relationship with the EU, I believe I offer unmatched experience and knowledge of how to do the right thing for Northern Ireland in Brussels.
“I am a Euro realist and believe in maximising the benefits Northern Ireland can get in Europe while fully supporting measures to reform the top heavy and bureaucratic Institutions of the EU which are out of touch with the views of ordinary people in the UK.
“The Ulster Unionist Party believes in 3 Rs – Review, Renegotiation and then a Referendum for the people to decide on a new pathway to a modern Europe. Northern Ireland should not be led over a cliff edge of uncertainty. The electorate need to be fully aware of the outcome of a negotiation. The debate must go well beyond the two-dimensional discussion over what we put into Europe and what we get out. A proper, three-dimensional debate will also have to consider the cost of withdrawal from the EU, not least, in lost jobs and opportunities.
“Then it will be time for the people to have their say. It is 38 years since the referendum was held for the UK to join the 'Common Market'. Then there were 6 countries involved and all were at similar states of development. Now we have 28 countries with diverse economies and cultures. The EU cannot survive and prosper in its current form.
“I am determined to play my part in fighting for the interests of Northern Ireland and its people, and am asking you to return me to Brussels once again to continue to work for you.”
Ulster Unionist Leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA, said:
"Jim Nicholson is an exceptional MEP. He knows Brussels better than any other candidate, but more importantly, Brussels knows and respects Jim Nicholson. That is a compelling argument and I ask voters to consider this when deciding who to give their No 1 vote to on the 22nd of May. Jim Nicholson will do what's right for Northern Ireland in Europe."