David Cameron addressed a meeting of Northern Ireland Conservatives at the Stormont Hotel in East Belfast yesterday. During the first engagement of his short visit to Northern Ireland, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to bring mainstream UK politics to the province.
“It’s great to be here today among friends and Conservatives”, the Prime Minister remarked, “An important aspect of Conservatism is a dogged determination to do one’s duty and in government we’re doing our duty and benefiting people right across the UK”.
“We’ve kept our promise to savers at the Presbyterian Mutual and I’m thrilled that the first payments are now being made to those who have had their hard-earned money caught up in the Society”.
“I’m still determined and we’re all still committed to bringing mainstream UK politics to Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland politicians into the UK mainstream. We’re providing the logistical support with a campaign office here and a full-time employee. We must ensure that the Conservative voice is properly represented in Northern Ireland”.
The Prime Minister was introduced to local activists by Northern Ireland Conservatives Vice Chairman, Tim Lewis, who hailed Mr Cameron’s commitment to Northern Ireland and the “tireless work” of the Conservative Secretary of State, Owen Paterson.
During his day long visit, the Prime Minister also visited the Stormont Assembly. He promised to “stand up for Northern Ireland” and added, “I’ll stand by Northern Ireland in respect of your constitutional future too. My views on the Union are well known. I will never be neutral in expressing my support for it”.
“For me, what we can achieve together will always be greater than what we can do apart.”