New unionism suits west Belfast student
A YOUNG Ulster Unionist from nationalist west Belfast stood out at the conference as an example of the new territory into which the UUP and Tories want to expand.
In an address to delegates, Stephen Goss said that despite coming from a nationalist background he joined the UUP to help build a new future for everyone inside the UK.
The 21-year-old student said the unionist party of the old Stormont regime was gone and the pact with the Conservatives could help build a modern vision for unionism that crossed the old divides.
He said of his decision to join the party: "It really is pragmatic: I realise that we are better off as part of the UK, economically and socially and so on.
"I also like living in the UK. I wanted to get involved in politics and this seemed the natural party."
Mr Goss, who is chair of the Young Unionist Association at Queen's University, said his family traced its political roots to an iconic nationalist of the early 20th century – Joe Devlin.
His great-uncle had campaigned alongside Devlin, but Mr Goss said he joined the UUP because he felt it best suited his vision for the future.
"The party has changed. Since 1998 it's easier for someone like myself to get involved and I have been welcomed," he said.
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Weather for Belfast
Sunday 12 February 2012
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Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
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