Alliance Leader thanks Close and praises him for his courage and hard work

Alliance Leader David Ford has thanked Seamus Close for all his hard work for the party and has commended his courage in campaigning for Alliance during the difficult decades of the Troubles. His comments come as Seamus Close announced that he is not contesting any further elections.

David Ford stated: ” I wish to thank Seamus for all his work for the Alliance Party down the years.

“Seamus has been a Councillor for Alliance since 1973, and was elected to Stormont in 1982, 1996, 1998 and 2003. He was also Party Chair and Deputy Leader, and I wish to express gratitude on behalf of the party for the excellent service which he gave to Alliance. I also want to commend the courage he showed in standing in the Fermanagh-South Tyrone by-election during the hunger strike in 1981.

“Seamus displayed great courage during the Troubles, in fighting sectarianism and standing up to terrorists.

“The loyal service that Seamus gave the party placed heavy demands on himself and his family. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Seamus and his family all the best for the future.”

ENDS