Political legacy of Ian Paisley
THE decision of the Rev Ian Paisley to step down as North Antrim MP after 40 years is the end of an era in Ulster politics where the former DUP leader was such a dominant, influential figure.
Dr Paisley rocked the Ulster Unionist establishment in the General Election of 1970 when he wrested the North Antrim seat from sitting MP Henry Clark and, over successive elections, he increased his majority to levels that made the constituency a DUP stronghold.
The departure of Ian Paisley from Westminster is not surprising considering that the "Big Man" is now 83 and has not been playing as active a role in the Stormont Assembly since he stood aside as First Minister last year.
Even his political opponents would acknowledge that Ian Paisley was an assiduous MP for his constituents, no matter their religious background.
Notwithstanding his hardline unionism, he always proclaimed, with justification, that his door was open to people of all classes and creeds needing their constituency problems sorted.
His undoubted charisma and ability to generate humour into his dealings with people at a personal level was a great strength of Ian Paisley, whose phenomenal vote-winning campaigns were such a feature of Ulster elections.
The contest in North Antrim will be a fascinating political spectacle, with a former close colleague of Dr Paisley - Jim Allister - indicating that he will challenge for the seat.
The Ian Paisley legacy in North Antrim, however, is well-grounded and this should work to the benefit of whoever succeeds him as the DUP candidate.
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Tuesday 14 February 2012
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