Robinson Out Of Touch With DUP - Poll

Peter Robinson is out of touch with a large proportion of DUP grassroots members on issues such as parades and abortion, according to a new poll.

The Belfast Telegraph carried out the survey of 50 DUP activists during the two-day conference at the weekend.

The conference was attended by around 450 people; just under half the DUP membership.

The newspaper polled attendees on topics such as abortion when the woman has been raped, breaches of Parades Commission rulings, support for its leader and pacts with other parties.

It found 40% believed Parades Commission determinations should not be obeyed when agreement cannot be reached on contentious issues.

The Commission’s rulings are legally binding; something which Peter Robinson has stated frequently.

Only 44% of people surveyed agreed the Commission should be obeyed at all times.

Only half of those surveyed agreed with Mr Robinson’s opinion that rape and incest victims should be eligible for legal abortions, while 42% were opposed. The remainder were undecided.

But despite these findings, the Telegraph’s survey showed the DUP leader had the support of 100% of those questioned.

78% said they wanted the DUP and UUP to form a single party, while 90%, favoured electoral pacts between the parties in marginal seats.

When asked what should be done if Sinn Féin were to become the largest Stormont party and nominate Martin McGuinness as First Minister, 48% said the party would remain in government, while 20% said the DUP should withdraw. The remaining 32% were unsure.

(IT/GK)