Statement by TUV MEP candidate Jim Allister:
“The varied comments of UUP representatives following their meeting with officials from the Maze Long Kesh Development Corporation are truly are baffling. The initial proclamation that the ‘Peace Centre’ proposal is dead has been overtaken by the support by Mike Nesbitt for inclusion of the toxic buildings in a tourist trail.
“The key problem with the Maze site is the prison buildings which have the potential to become a shine to terrorism and prop for the rewriting of history. A few years ago I shared a platform with Mike Nesbitt and other members of his party warning of the dangers of this site yet this morning Mr Nesbitt was on Nolan saying that he saw “merit” in the buildings being opened up to, among others, visiting young people.
“My view remains that the best solution is ‘Raze the Maze’. Then it’s economic potential can be exploited unfettered by the blight of shrine potential.
“In a very short space of time the UUP has apparently moved from warning of the dangers associated with a potential Mecca for terror tourism to acquiescence in a project with precisely that risk.
“The idea that people are going to be taken into the prison hospital but not told in which room Bobby Sands died so that it is “entirely neutral” is utter nonsense.
“Given that the site has received attention from the EU for a considerable number of years – and that the previous UUP MEP Jim Nicholson is on record as sharing many of my concerns – it is incumbent on Danny Kennedy to fully spell out where he stands on this matter.
“The campaign against the shrine at the Maze united Unionism from all backgrounds. That is why the DUP found reverse gear on the issue after branding those opposed to the plans as needing to be “taken away by men in white coats”.
“It would be most disappointing, and a slap in the face for innocent victims, if the UUP now gave any endorsement to opening up the prison buildings for the inevitable Provo exploitation.”
Note: You can listen to Mr Nesbitt’s comments here.