We will work in UK’s best interests, says DUP
Party leader ready to help May form new government
It is the Union that will be to the forefront of our minds. Arlene Foster, leader of Northern Irelands’s Democratic Unionist Party.
THE LEADER of Northern Ireland’s Democratic Unionist Party has pledged to work in the interests of the entire United Kingdom, amid reports that the group is poised to enter into an agreement with the Conservatives.
The former First Minister Arlene Foster, who led her party to 10 seats in the Westminster election, yesterday stated the DUP would strive for the best deal for the UK as a whole, as she expressed a willingness to help Theresa May form a government.
The news came as her Sinn Fein opponent, Gerry Adams, poured scorn on the anticipated deal, arguing that any alliance “between Ulster unionism and British unionism” would “end in tears”.
Its also came amid uncertainty over efforts to restore a powersharing executive at Stormont, with suggestions that Sinn Fein could now reject the idea of Toryled negotiations.
The prospect of collaboration between the Tories and DUP was first floated in the early hours of Friday morning when it became apparent that Mrs May would not secure the 326 MPs required for an absolute majority.
Speaking from Downing Street after a meeting at Buckingham Palace, the Conservative leader stated her intention to work with “friends and allies” in the DUP to press forward with her agenda in the Commons.
Mrs Foster later confirmed that her party would enter discussions with the Tories to “explore how it may be possible to bring stability to our nation at this time of great challenge”.
Describing the DUP’s victory in Northern Ireland as “truly historic”, she added that the outcome also represented “a great result for the Union”.
“We may represent Northern Ireland constituencies in the House of Commons but we are as seized of the interests of the Kingdom as a whole as we are for our small province,” she said.
“I make no apology for saying that the DUP will always strive for the best deal for Northern Ireland and its people.
“But equally, we want the best for all of the United Kingdom.
“Those who want to tear apart the Union that we cherish and benefit from so hugely have been sent a clear and resounding message.
“In the days and weeks ahead, it is that Union that will be to the forefront of our minds. The Union is our guiding star.”
East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson ruled out a formal coalition with the Conservatives, stating that any arrangement would not extend beyond a confidence and supply arrangement.
But he claimed the deal would put his party “in a fantastic position to deliver for Northern Ireland”.
Meanwhile, Mr Adams confirmed that Sinn Fein’s seven MPs will not take up their posts in Westminster.
Commenting on the possible Conservative-DUP agreement, he stated that history has show that “alliances between Ulster unionism and British unionism has always ended in tears”.
He went on to claim that a referendum on Irish unity is now inevitable, following the collapse of centre-ground parties in the country.
He said: “One thing we can say for certainty, there is going to be a referendum on Irish unity... I can’t say when, but there is going to be.”
Negotiations to re-establish a functioning government in Stormont have so far been overseen by Northern Ireland Secretary James Brokenshire. They are due to restart next week.