The DUP court easy popularity, as their response to the Covid-19 crisis shows

Listening to Sammy Wilson (Radio Ulster) telling us that the DUP would make certain that pubs and restaurants were not closed despite the Covid crisis brought home to me the weakness inherent in the whole DUP.
By Alex Kane
Published 19th Nov 2020, 12:03 BST
Letter to the editorLetter to the editor
Letter to the editor

Anyone over 40 will remember the DUP opposing the UUP powersharing with the SDLP, only to warmly embrace powersharing with Martin McGuinness of Sinn Fein (remember the Chuckle brothers) when they found an opportunity win votes and posts in government.

Most will remember them following in the wake of Ukip to become champions of Brexit when this seemed like a vote winner, despite others warning them that Brexit would weaken the union and isolate Northern Ireland.

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The DUP are populists, followers not leaders; this is why they admire and copy other populists like the disastrous Donald Trump. They court easy popularity by telling their voters what they want to hear, rather than difficult truths.

They attack brave ministers like Robin Swann who takes the difficult decisions, while they pretend to be the saviours of our hospitality industry.

No sane person believes that the Christmas party season will continue as normal. Restaurants and pubs will not benefit from the uncertainty and chaos that Stormont is offering.

The DUP Economy minister should offer the hospitality sector financial support to allow them to stay closed for whatever time the medical experts deem necessary.

Arnold Carton, Belfast BT6

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Related topics:DUPSammy WilsonEconomy MinisterRestaurants