Ulster Unionist councillor turns to DUP

Published Tuesday, 04 October 2011

Lisburn councillor Alan Carlisle has said "in-fighting" is one of the reasons behind his decision to leave the UUP and join the DUP.

Mr Carlisle, who represents the Lisburn Town South area, was welcomed to the DUP by Peter Robinson and Nigel Dodds on Tuesday.

Speaking after joining the party, Cllr Carlisle said: "Whilst I have many good friends within the UUP, the overall sense within the party remains one of drift and confusion."

In-fighting and sectional interests are endemic within the UUP, meaning it cannot look outwards to the needs of the people but is solely concentrated on its own survival.
DUP councillor Alan Carlisle

"I want to be part of a team that is focused on building a strong and vibrant Northern Ireland within the union."

Mr Robinson welcomed Cllr Carlisle to the party, hoping he would become an "integral part" of the team.

"The decision to leave any party which you have served as an elected representative cannot come easily, but Alan's decision comes against the backdrop of an Ulster Unionist Party which cannot decide what purpose it exists to serve," said the DUP leader.