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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 WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
