Bowles' pro-democracy stance an example to others

7.41.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Sat 20th May 2006

Young Alliance Chairman Ian James Parsley

Young Alliance Chairman Ian James Parsley has said the stance of previous Chair of the Young Unionists, Peter Bowles, in opposition to his party's link up with UVF representatives in the Assembly is an example others should follow.

North Down Cllr Parsley stated: "The next generation of politicians is the first generation hoping to preside over genuine democracy in Northern Ireland - where the democrat takes precedence over the gangster, and where the victim takes precedence over the terrorist.

"The sectarian stance of some Young Unionists in broad support of their party's link-up with active gangsters was therefore a significant setback for the democratic cause. Working with people to move them on from paramilitarism is one thing - but either you oppose paramilitarism in all its forms, or you do not.

"The issue here is nothing to do with party affiliation, it is to do with demonstrating who has the courage of their convictions to stand up for the rule of law as fundamental to democracy, and who is prepared to sacrifice it on the alter of cheap political expediency.

"I welcome Cllr Bowles' stance against those who have caused mayhem in both his and my council areas as well as elsewhere. Others should follow his lead and clarify their position on this most basic of issues.

"Those of us in party youth wings who are prepared to stand up for democracy and who have the privilege of serving in elected office will, regardless of party, continue to work together to secure our objective of a fair and democratic society for all our young people to grow up in. That is what our young people want to see their representatives achieve."

ENDS