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30/06/2006
DUP MLA quits environmental team
DUP MLA Jim Wells has resigned from the party's environmental team, it has today emerged.
The South Down MLA decided to step down from his position as one of the party's spokesmen on environmental issues, after it became clear that his views no longer coincided with the opinions of his party members.
It has been reported that Mr Wells, a former RSPB and National Trust employee, was offended by comments made by colleagues, however Mr Wells has passed the row off as nothing but "a storm in a teacup."
The disagreement is thought to be over planning policy in rural areas.
Despite his resignation, Mr Wells has said that he will remain as a member of the DUP.
Speaking earlier, Mr Wells said: "I have told colleagues I will never comment again on behalf of the party on environmental matters and planning.
"However I haven't quit the party. In fact I'm happy with all other aspects of party policy."
The DUP has refused to make any comment on Mr Wells' decision.
(EF/SP)
The South Down MLA decided to step down from his position as one of the party's spokesmen on environmental issues, after it became clear that his views no longer coincided with the opinions of his party members.
It has been reported that Mr Wells, a former RSPB and National Trust employee, was offended by comments made by colleagues, however Mr Wells has passed the row off as nothing but "a storm in a teacup."
The disagreement is thought to be over planning policy in rural areas.
Despite his resignation, Mr Wells has said that he will remain as a member of the DUP.
Speaking earlier, Mr Wells said: "I have told colleagues I will never comment again on behalf of the party on environmental matters and planning.
"However I haven't quit the party. In fact I'm happy with all other aspects of party policy."
The DUP has refused to make any comment on Mr Wells' decision.
(EF/SP)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:It will be cloudy. Also mainly dry at first this evening but then occasional outbreaks of rain developing overnight. Light southwest winds, and staying mild. Minimum temperature 9 °C.
