PUP leader Purvis quits party
The leader of the Progressive Unionist Party, which has links with the UVF, has quit as leader and party member following the murder of loyalist Bobby Moffet on Friday.
Dawn Purvis submitted her resignation in an emergency meeting of the PUP’s Executive Committee on Wednesday night, which was accepted.
She said she could not be expected to answer for what she called “the indefensible actions of others.”
However, the East Belfast representative says she will continue as an independent MLA.
Her resignation follows the murder of Mr Moffet, 43 who was gunned down on the Shankill road by two masked men in broad daylight last week.
The family has blamed the UVF for the killing.
“I make this decision with a very heavy heart. I believe the Progressive Unionist Party was founded by individuals who had a real vision for Northern Ireland and a positive and important contribution to make to politics and the peace process in this country. I have been honoured to be a part of that,” Ms Purvis said.
“However, I can no longer offer leadership to a political party which is expected to answer for the indefensible actions of others.”
“I will continue in my role of MLA as an independent member of the Assembly, representing the people of East Belfast.”
“It will be my objective, as it has always been, to bring to the Assembly specific policy ideas and proposals which will make Northern Ireland a place where there is equality of opportunity for all, and where the people of Northern Ireland can be proud to live, work, learn and play.”
Dr John Kyle has been appointed by the Executive as interim party leader until the PUP Conference in October 2010.
Dr Kyle gave his reaction to the announcement: “It is with much regret that we lose a great leader, Dawn Purvis, and we wish her well in her time in Stormont. Her leadership both in the Assembly and in the Party will be missed”.
The PUP will hold an Extraordinary General Meeting in the coming days to discuss the implications of Ms Purvis’ resignation.
On Wednesday, she had called for an end to the ongoing intimidation in the Shankill area by the UVF.
UTV understands people living in the area have been receiving text messages claiming to be from the loyalist paramilitary group, warning the community not to support any vigils held in tribute to Bobby Moffett and in support for his family.
Mr Moffett’s funeral will be held on Friday.
