DUP Launch Election Campaign

The DUP have launched their election campaign at Belfast's Ormeau Baths gallery.

According to the party leader's speech by Peter Robinson, Northern Ireland is facing its first election where the main issues are everyday ones.

Mr Robinson said he wanted to see a new society "where the divisions of the past are being eroded and our new society is taking root."

A number of parties came under fire from the DUP leader, including the UUP over cuts, the SDLP over 50/50 police recruitment, the Alliance Party about water charges and Sinn Fein over education.

Mr Robinson (pictured) then went on to raise the issue of employment and jobs.

"We have created more jobs in the last four years than any time in Northern Ireland's history; there is more to be done because we're losing more jobs at the other end because of the recession."

Mr Robinson said he wanted to see a Northern Ireland that was economically prosperous, where everyone has the opportunity to "succeed regardless of their background" and the divisions of the past eroded.

He added: "And I want to see a society where everyone, regardless of their political outlook can say - 'I'm proud to be from Northern Ireland.'"

The party’s main areas where they will look to change will be jobs, tougher sentences, rates, education, health and to strengthen unionism.

The party leader also cited apathy as the biggest opponent and urged voters to make their voice heard.

"We must not only maximise turnout and support for the DUP; we must use every vote to its maximum effect. That is why key to our success is vote management.

"Where we are fielding more than one candidate, the candidates have divided up the constituency, and we are asking our supporters in each area to support the recommended candidate depending on which polling station they vote at," he concluded.

(JG/GK)