04/04/2007

Banbridge DUP member quits over power-sharing

A seventh Democratic Unionist Councillor has resigned over the party's decision to enter a power-sharing government with Sinn Fein.

Banbridge Councillor Stephen Herron said he was saddened at having to make the decision, but he was unable to support the the deal.

Yesterday Ballymena Mayor James Alexander and Councillor Robin Stirling told a council meeting they were leaving the party.

Mr Alexander said he was leaving because he thought the DUP was rushing into government with Sinn Fein.

“It was too early to power-share with them, the weeks they have given them is ridiculous compared with the 30-odd years of conflict,” he said.

The total of councillors who have left the party is seven - five in Ballymena, one in Ballymoney and one in Banbridge.

(JM/SP)

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