Letter: I believe in a revival of the Ulster Unionist Party under my new leader Jon Burrows

People who have never spoken with me about politics are now asking about this man, and what I think the implications will be for the party, wider unionism, and the general political landscape in Northern Ireland.

It would be naïve to ‘get ahead of ourselves’, and many will point to the fact that the UUP has had many false dawns. This feels different though, and there are three reasons I believe a revival of the party will happen under the leadership of Jon Burrows.

Firstly, it’s important to acknowledge the qualities that Jon has shown since entering Stormont last year.

His robust scrutiny, and tireless work ethic have seen him grow a public profile that many seasoned MLAs would be envious of.

He is a skilled orator and has showed an ability to connect with people from all backgrounds.

Jon brings experience of leadership roles within the PSNI and transferable skills that will be used to express a coherent and strong message to the electorate.

Secondly, it feels like the timing is perfect and that there is an appetite for a rejuvenated Ulster Unionist Party heading into both local government and NI Assembly elections next year. The latest Lucid Talk poll results indicate that support for the party under Jon Burrows is growing.

Many journalists have used the term ‘hit the ground running’ when reflecting on Mr Burrows’ entrance to front line politics.

If he can inject that momentum into the wider party, I would expect electoral gains next May.

The third reason for my optimism is the stability of the party. When Steve Aiken, Doug Beattie and Mike Nesbit became leaders of the party, it was during a time of uncertainty and discontentment.

All three leaders progressed the party during these challenging times and I’m grateful for the impact they made.

The landscape is different for Jon, and that is largely thanks to minister Nesbitt. When Mike took on the role for the second time in August 2024, he set about repairing the structures of the party.

In November last year, Jayne Murray became chief executive of the party, joining a growing staff team. The finances of the party are better than they have been for many years, and there is a feeling of positivity and growth that previous leaders have not had the benefit of walking into.

The party owes a great deal of gratitude to Mike Nesbit, and it is in no way surprising that Jon has asked him to continue in his role as health minister.

He is also the most popular minister in the NI Executive, according to recent polling.

While retaining our own identity and principles, the UUP has always be open to co-operation with other unionist parties under the circumstances that it would be to the benefit of the people of Northern Ireland.

Having said that, when the DUP clamber for engagement around co-operation that normally isn’t coming from a position of strength, but one of concern.

The challenge for Jon Burrows is to convince the electorate that the Ulster Unionist Party’s policies and approach will stabilise government and make Northern Ireland work.

Instead of positioning itself as a unionist party for unionist people, the UUP will unapologetically go to the electorate as a unionist party for all people.

A party that can grow unionism by appealing to traditionally Alliance Party voters, the previously disenfranchised non-voters, and indeed young people.

I believe that is a challenge he is ready to take, and capable of delivering on.

Pete Wray, UUP councillor, Ards and North Down Borough Council