David McNarry: A unified unionism can still help to shape its own destiny

Like it or not, the DUP leader Arlene Foster and the UUP leader Steve Aiken are hostages within an executive that is often seen as ‘not fit for purpose’.

The unionist family is growing disenchanted with the impotence of its leaders.

In the background is the abandonment of unionists by London in the Brexit double cross, and also the government’s weak and apologetic approach to the official centenary celebrations.

Unionists are accustomed to seeing their politicians demonstrate backbone and tenacity, and commanding respect and authority.

In that regard Mrs Foster and Mr Aiken would do well to take advice from friends on how to improve the interests of unionism. With so many concessions being made to nationalism, the two of them must move closer in recognition of the merits of working together within a defined ‘unity of purpose’.

The ‘founding fathers’ of 1921 handed down the objective to stand firm in maintaining the Union. They would be apoplectic at the thought of unionism surrendering of the centenary celebrations to a committee, with no control over the arrangements and the narrative. Unionists can still take control of events that impact on our destiny.

Sinn Fein will never respect unionism or work in Northern Ireland’s best interests. But they will fear a resurgent unified cause which threatens their republican dogma.

There is no shame in being proud of your heritage.

The leaderships should not seem to acquiesce in the relentless pressure to downgrade our Britishness.

In the early 1900s solid men and women formed the powerful Union-saving Ulster Unionist Council to ensure that unionism remained intact.

It is not too late to form a new ‘united unionist council’. A body that will showcase the importance of the Union to all people in Northern Ireland and across the UK, while respectful of sensitivities.

A council that will pay homage to all who gave so much to unionism, including the many who made the ultimate sacrifice in upholding the right to remain British.

• David McNarry is an ex Ulster Unionist & Ukip MLA

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