Unionist MEP condemns Dáil rights plan
An Ulster Unionist MEP today vowed never to set foot in the Dáil if he and other Northern Ireland politicians are given speaking rights there.
Jim Nicholson said he would vigorously oppose moves to grant Northern Ireland’s 18 MPs and three MEPs the right to participate in Dáil debates and committee meetings.
Ulster Unionist leader Sir Reg Empey claimed last weekend that Taoiseach Bertie Ahern will begin consultations on the move this autumn.
The UUP believes the move will be intended as a confidence-building measure for nationalists and republicans following the IRA’s decision to end its armed campaign.
But Mr Nicholson said today: “The decision is deplorable and undermines the constitutional position of Northern Ireland.
“It drives a horse and cart through the principle of consent and must be opposed by unionists throughout the province.
“The unionist community will not tolerate such an aggressive assault on our sovereignty by a jurisdiction which has been so hostile in the past.
“The Irish Government, like our own, has capitulated to Sinn Féin’s insatiable demands and has undermined any future relationship unionists may have with Dublin.”
Sinn Féin, which has five MPs and an MEP in Northern Ireland, has long advocated the need for politicians in the North to be given speaking rights in the Dáil.
Mark Durkan’s nationalist SDLP, which has three MPs, would also be expected to take part.
However, unionists are likely to shun the idea.
The Rev Ian Paisley’s DUP would have nine MPs and one MEP who would qualify, while the Ulster Unionists would have one MP and one MEP.
Mr Nicholson said unionists must unite in opposition to the plan.
“The DUP’s childish attempts to pass the buck and save face are most unhelpful. As the lead party within unionism, it is a shame they couldn’t do more to stop this,” he said.
“Make no mistake, as my party leader said at the weekend, we will not hesitate in introducing sanctions should speaking rights be granted in the autumn.”
