The abiding problem with the UUP/PUP pact (for Reg Empey at least) is in discerning what’s in it for the UUP. This story from today’s Newsletter seems to underline those doubts, when Empey is reported as echoing David Ervine’s misgivings that cross border co-operation with the Assembly might ‘spark a violent reaction’ from Loyalists. Whilst there is a need for mainstream mainstream politicians like Empey to engage with the residual disillusionment of Loyalist communities, there is also a question of which takes the upper hand: engagement, or disillusion?
Mick is founding editor of Slugger. He has written papers on the impacts of the Internet on politics and the wider media and is a regular guest and speaking events across Ireland, the UK and Europe. Twitter: @MickFealty
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