Stephen Aiken OBE has been ratified as an Assembly candidate for the Ulster Unionist Party in the constituency of South Antrim, along with his running mates Adrian Cochrane-Watson MLA and Councillor Paul Michael. Stephen is a former Commander in the Royal Navy, where he served for 31 years, during which he held senior appointments in the Ministry of Defence and on operational duty. He`s a former CEO of Dublin City University Educational Trust, and a former CEO of the British Irish Chamber of Commerce.
Mr Aiken said:
“I joined the Ulster Unionist Party because it is the only party with a vision for the future. I am committed to building a better Northern Ireland, with improved relations with our neighbours.
“I decided to get involved in politics because I want to make a difference and given my background of service and life experiences, the only party that is going in an appropriate direction is the Ulster Unionist Party. I`ve got two young children and I want Northern Ireland to be a great place for them and other children to grow up in.
“I come from Ballyclare so it was only natural that I want to stand in my own area. South Antrim is my home and it would be an absolute privilege to represent the area. I`ve put my name forward and it will be up to the people to decide.
“Northern Ireland can be a great place; let's make it a great place.”
Ulster Unionist leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA:
“We are in growth mode and we are looking for exceptional candidates. Steve is an exceptional candidate. He has the sort of life experiences that will enhance our ability to represent people better.
“I have been talking to Steve over the last three years and I am pleased he took time before getting involved in politics and committing himself to us. The fact he took his time makes his commitment all the more welcome. He has put a lot of thought into this and I encourage the voters of South Antrim to acknowledge the strength of the team we will offer at the polls in May 2016.
“After Danny Kinahan`s success in South Antrim last May we look forward to offering the people of South Antrim enhanced Ulster Unionist representation in the Assembly from next May.”