This week we heard an extraordinary claim from a former Russian Deputy Prime Minister: that Belfast and even Fivemiletown could be “targets” if Russia goes to war with Europe. And whilst this is undoubtedly sabre-rattling from a hostile regime, it is also a reminder of something far more important. In a dangerous world, our security is not an abstract issue. It is real, and it matters.

Winston Churchill once warned that “the price of greatness is responsibility.”

For us, that responsibility includes ensuring the people of Northern Ireland remain protected under the full shield of the United Kingdom’s defence, intelligence and security network - one of the most capable in the world. If anything ever threatened these islands, it would be the RAF, the Royal Navy and British Armed Forces who would stand between us and harm.

That is the hard truth. Contrast that with the Irish Republic.

Dublin’s government benefits every single day from the bravery, sacrifice and enormous cost carried by others. Their airspace is protected by the RAF. Their security depends heavily on intelligence-sharing from the UK and NATO powers. Their entire strategic defence is outsourced.

Yet this is the same government that indulges in moral grandstanding on the world stage. This week they withdrew from Eurovision over Israel’s pursuit of Hamas, proclaiming themselves champions of human rights because of the situation in Gaza.

It should never be forgotten that when Jews were being systematically murdered during the Holocaust, the Irish state stood idle and claimed it wasn’t their fight.

To borrow the words that some have attributed to Edmund Burke:

“The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”

History records who acted, and who looked away.

This hypocrisy matters, because it reveals a deeper issue.

While the Republic preaches, the United Kingdom protects. While they gesture, we shoulder the burden. And while they play politics, our servicemen and women face down real threats in a dangerous world.

The events of this week underline something we must never take for granted:

Northern Ireland’s safety, stability and future are strongest when anchored firmly within the United Kingdom.

As global tensions rise, as hostile actors test boundaries, and as small nations scramble for shelter, our place in the Union isn’t just a constitutional preference. It is a shield - a guarantee that we will not face the uncertainties of this world alone.

We will continue to defend our place in the UK boldly, and ensure Northern Ireland’s interests are protected without apology.

Yours sincerely,

Rt. Hon. Gavin Robinson MP

DUP Leader

New MLA for Newry and Armagh

I am delighted that Gareth Wilson will be following in the footsteps of William Irwin as DUP MLA for Newry & Armagh. Gareth has been a dedicated and hard-working councillor for two decades now, working closely alongside William in the constituency. He will continue to be a champion for the people of Newry & Armagh within the Northern Ireland Assembly. 

As our candidate in last year’s General Election Gareth will be known to people across the constituency. He brings not just experience, but enthusiasm to the role and he will be a valuable addition to our team in the Assembly.

Presenting our friend and colleague William Irwin with a small token of appreciation for his dedication and service to the people of Newry and Armagh,

unionism, to Northern Ireland and to our Party