Ulster Unionist MEP, Jim Nicholson has stated that the politicians Northern Ireland elects to Europe and local councils should reflect the overall view of the majority of its people who are emphatically pro-Union.
Mr Nicholson said:
"Proportionately, the pro-Union population in western parts of Northern Ireland and border areas, where unionists are in a minority, turn out in greater numbers than those in the east of Northern Ireland when it comes to voting.
"All the evidence tells us that the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland are emphatically pro-Union, but unfortunately that is not necessarily reflected in the results of elections.
"Regrettably, apathy in eastern areas, particularly in the greater Belfast area, has resulted in a shrinkage of the pro-Union vote in recent years and, crucially, the loss of seats in both the Stormont Assembly and on district councils. We should not forget the consequences of this.
"If the Union is to be preserved in the long term, then a vote which accurately reflects the overall political view of the people of Northern Ireland needs to be registered in both the European and district council elections on May 22nd and all elections following.
“The Ulster Unionist Party and I are unashamedly pro-Union and believe that Northern Ireland remaining part of the UK is fundamental to the future economic prosperity and social wellbeing of all its people. This needs to be reflected in its elected representatives. Northern Ireland can`t afford to send people to Europe from parties who are at best ambivalent on our position within the United Kingdom. That`s why I ask everyone to vote Jim Nicholson number one for Europe and for Ulster Unionist Party council candidates. We put the country first. Then I encourage everyone to transfer their votes to other pro-Union parties.
“I will continue to do what`s right for Northern Ireland in Europe. I won`t be afraid to tell the EU where things are clearly wrong such as funding a terrorist shrine at the Maze. If you vote for me, I will ensure that Northern Ireland`s voice will continue to be heard loud and clear in Brussels and that whilst the UK remains part of the EU, I`ll fight to ensure that Northern Ireland gets its fair share.”