DUP MLA: As a party we realise that unionism needs to welcome people of all backgrounds and traditions

Therefore I welcome Christopher Madden’s comments (‘DUP turn Catholics against Union,’ February 17), even if I disagree with some of his assertions.

There is a growing recognition that unionism needs to be more welcoming and open to people from all backgrounds and traditions.

We have a positive and attractive message that Northern Ireland’s interests are best served as part of the United Kingdom.

We are part of the world’s fifth largest economy, with a welfare system and our NHS providing free healthcare for everyone.

We have strong economic, social, cultural and political arguments which we should never shy away from highlighting.

I disagree with Christopher’s assertion that we are on a “slow march towards a united Ireland”. Such thinking is not borne out by the evidence. Even after the turbulence of recent years the most recent opinion poll shows less than 30% would vote to take Northern Ireland out of the UK.

Regardless of their background, people want to see positive unionist leadership which is working towards a better future rather than tacitly accepting the united Ireland is ‘just around the corner’ argument republicans have been putting forward for nearly a century now.

The New Decade New Approach deal was about acknowledging the diverse identities. Making everyone feel at home in Northern Ireland and ensuring we have the best schools, hospitals, welfare system and economic prospects are ways we can give practical demonstration of the benefits of the Union.

People in Northern Ireland cannot control the outcome of elections in the Republic of Ireland.

We are obviously interested neighbours, but our focus should be here at home.

The 25% election result in Dublin wasn’t an advertisement for a united Ireland.

Indeed, it arose because of some significant problems within the Republic which actually highlight advantages of staying in the UK.

As the largest unionist political party there is an obvious responsibility upon the DUP to promote our place in the United Kingdom.

Every party wants to attract support from as many voters as possible. However, unionism is not limited to one individual or party.

There is an onus on us all to be salespeople for the Union and to make sure that our actions and words help create the Northern Ireland where people feel at home and at peace within the United Kingdom.

Gordon Lyons, DUP MLA, East Antrim