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16/07/2002
Alliance slam Trimble's 'border poll' suggestion
Alliance Party General Secretary, Stephen Farry, has slammed suggestions of holding a 'border poll' on the same day as the Assembly Election as crazy.
Mr Farry hit out at the suggestion, which has been pushed recently by Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble. Mr Trimble is confident that a poll on whether Northern Ireland should remain within the United Kingdom or become part of a united Ireland would ensure a high turnout for his party at the next Assembly Elections in May 2003.
Dr Farry said: "The idea of holding a 'border poll' on the same day as the Assembly Election is crazy.
"Even in the best of times, a 'border poll' would be incredibly dangerous and divisive. No other issue polarises the electorate of Northern Ireland more. On no other issue is there less common ground.
"The ethos of the Agreement is a win-win for all sections of the community.
The outcome of a 'border poll' is winner takes all. They are little more than sectarian headcounts.
"A 'border poll' should only be called when there is clear evidence of a desire for change in Northern Ireland's constitutional status. At present, there is no evidence of this. Therefore, there is no objective basis or necessity for the Secretary of State calling such a poll on May 2003, or at any other time in the immediate future."
Mr Trimble's wish for a 'border poll' alongside Assembly Elections is believed to have support from both the Northern Ireland Office and Downing Street who also believe that it could ensure a high turnout at polling stations.
(MB)
Mr Farry hit out at the suggestion, which has been pushed recently by Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble. Mr Trimble is confident that a poll on whether Northern Ireland should remain within the United Kingdom or become part of a united Ireland would ensure a high turnout for his party at the next Assembly Elections in May 2003.
Dr Farry said: "The idea of holding a 'border poll' on the same day as the Assembly Election is crazy.
"Even in the best of times, a 'border poll' would be incredibly dangerous and divisive. No other issue polarises the electorate of Northern Ireland more. On no other issue is there less common ground.
"The ethos of the Agreement is a win-win for all sections of the community.
The outcome of a 'border poll' is winner takes all. They are little more than sectarian headcounts.
"A 'border poll' should only be called when there is clear evidence of a desire for change in Northern Ireland's constitutional status. At present, there is no evidence of this. Therefore, there is no objective basis or necessity for the Secretary of State calling such a poll on May 2003, or at any other time in the immediate future."
Mr Trimble's wish for a 'border poll' alongside Assembly Elections is believed to have support from both the Northern Ireland Office and Downing Street who also believe that it could ensure a high turnout at polling stations.
(MB)
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