DUP LEADER Peter Robinson has strongly defended devolution and the record of the Executive despite growing tension with Sinn Féin which may bring down the Stormont institutions.
In a new year statement, Mr Robinson again stoutly defended devolution, comparing it favourably with direct rule by British ministers and challenging unionists opposed to sharing power with republicans to suggest a better alternative.
“Devolution works and I am determined to keep it working,” he said. “I am equally determined that there should be no return to the dark days of our past. Those who argue for a return to direct rule need to remember the powerlessness and isolation that such a situation meant for our community.”
The Stormont institutions were far from perfect, he admitted, “but we are working to improve the current arrangements to make them more responsive to local needs and to create a government that is less expensive and more efficient”.
Referring to the difficulties posed throughout 2009 by the international economy, local political issues and dissident republican violence, Mr Robinson said: “Northern Ireland has come a long way in the past year.”
Turning to unnamed unionist opponents he said: “Whilst some people want to tear down Stormont because of Sinn Féin’s presence in government, in 2010 I will be urging them to rethink.”
He understood their rationale for holding their view but argued: “It must be a decision of logic rather than emotion. It is not logical for unionists to sideline themselves and hand control back to direct rulers.
“In 2010, unionists will have an opportunity to reclaim both the South Belfast and Fermanagh and South Tyrone Westminster seats. As the largest party in both seats, this should be a priority for all unionists,” he said.
Mr Robinson made no reference to his wife, Iris, who announced this week she is to quit public life.
Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams, in his new year message, criticised unionist opponents of powersharing at Stormont and also the British and Irish governments. “We have continued to show leadership through trying and difficult political circumstances,” he said.
“The two governments have failed to deliver on commitments made. Sections of political unionism continue to resist the need for powersharing on the basis of equality and partnership.”
The impending Westminster election would see “a sustained effort” by Sinn Féin “to see the implementation of the outstanding aspects of the Good Friday and St Andrews Agreements, including the transfer of powers on policing and justice”.
SDLP leader Mark Durkan, in his final new year message before he stands down at next month’s party conference, also pressed for the completion of devolution of justice powers.Contradicting Peter Robinson’s assessment of economic policy, Mr Durkan said: “A competent and credible plan for economic recovery is overdue.”
He also said: “The sooner we agree the devolution of policing and justice, avoid the threat of collapsing our institutions and reject any speculation that Sinn Féin may be planning to withdraw from policing arrangements such as district policing partnerships, the sooner we will defy the agenda of dissident groups.”