The Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) is considering an invitation from Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) leader Gavin Robinson for discussions aimed at enhancing unionist cooperation. The invitation was extended to UUP leader-elect Jon Burrows following his emergence as the only candidate to succeed Mike Nesbitt as UUP leader. This dialogue could focus on strategies to consolidate unionist votes in upcoming elections.
Historically, various unionist parties have collaborated to maximize their electoral potential in specific constituencies. For instance, UUP’s Tom Elliott won the Fermanagh and South Tyrone Westminster seat in 2015, narrowly defeating the Sinn Féin candidate. Currently, Sinn Féin holds the most seats in the Northern Ireland Assembly, which enables them to nominate a first minister, while the DUP has appointed the deputy first minister. In the recent 2024 Westminster election, Sinn Féin secured seven seats, compared to the DUP’s five.
A spokesperson for the UUP indicated that the party’s new leadership team will assess any meeting requests based on what is in the best interest of Northern Ireland and its citizens. The spokesperson emphasized their commitment to advancing the interests of the Union through constructive dialogue.
“We remain committed to advancing the interests of the Union through constructive dialogue that benefits all,” the spokesperson stated. “We know all too well when others are engaging in good faith or when self-preservation is on their mind.”
The UUP has previously engaged in discussions about unionist cooperation and expressed a desire to offer voters a clear choice, citing past decisions by some unionist leaders that have not served the Union well.
Robinson’s email to DUP members addressed what he described as Sinn Féin’s “fervent desire to bring about the removal of Northern Ireland from the UK.” He urged for a unified unionist front to leverage their collective influence, stating, “The truth is that if unionism has more seats, it will have more power to get things done.”
He further articulated his intention to collaborate with Burrows, aiming to explore how their parties can work together to strengthen pro-Union representation in local government, the Assembly, and Westminster elections. Robinson highlighted the importance of presenting a united front against Sinn Féin’s agenda.
Robinson has also met with Jim Allister, leader of the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV), reaffirming a commitment to maximize unionist representation. He stated, “It is the job of all of us to be building support for the Union and making the case for it. We must do that at home as well as nationally and internationally.”
Earlier this month, Burrows reaffirmed his vision for the UUP, expressing openness to unionist cooperation but opposing any merger with other parties. He emphasized his ambition for the UUP to regain its status as the largest party in Northern Ireland.
“I want the Ulster Unionist Party to once again be the biggest party in Northern Ireland. That’s my ambition,” Burrows remarked. “The people of Northern Ireland need an Ulster Unionist Party with reasonableness and decency and integrity.”
As discussions unfold, the focus remains on the future of unionism in Northern Ireland and the potential implications for its political landscape. The UUP’s response to the DUP’s invitation will be crucial in shaping the dynamics of unionist cooperation in the region.
