Newton Emerson Criticizes DUP’s Hesitation on Catherine Connolly’s Inauguration for Offending and Embarrassing All

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Newton Emerson Criticizes DUP’s Hesitation on Catherine Connolly’s Inauguration for Offending and Embarrassing All

Newton Emerson has openly criticized the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) for its hesitation regarding the inauguration of President Catherine Connolly. This diplomatic indecision has raised eyebrows across the political spectrum and highlights the internal issues within the party.

DUP’s Reaction to Connolly’s Inauguration

The invitation for the presidential inauguration was received by Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly last Tuesday. Media inquiries about her attendance went unanswered until Friday. She cited Remembrance Day commitments in Stormont and Windsor Castle as the reason for her absence. By Sunday, the party confirmed that no representatives would attend the event.

Historical Context of Inaugurations

The DUP’s non-attendance is notable but not surprising. The timing of Remembrance Day has coincided with every inauguration since 1997. The last DUP first minister, Peter Robinson, attended Michael D. Higgins’ inauguration in 2011 despite a similar scheduling conflict.

Internal Party Dynamics

The DUP’s indecision reflects broader internal dysfunction. Significant decisions are made by a 12-member officer board that includes leader Gavin Robinson MP and other prominent figures. Little-Pengelly, despite her position on the board, has struggled to influence the decision-making process.

Emma Little-Pengelly: Deputy First Minister and board member
Gavin Robinson: DUP leader
Peter Robinson: Former DUP first minister

Political Frustration and Implications

This indecision has frustrated other parties in Stormont, particularly Sinn Féin. Michelle O’Neill, the First Minister of Sinn Féin, expressed exasperation with the slow response from the DUP, questioning their ability to make timely decisions. Although Sinn Féin also operates as a committee, O’Neill believes the DUP’s delays hinder effective governance.

Consequences of Dithering

Emerson suggests that the ongoing indecision has offended nationalists, embarrassed moderate unionists, and left hardline unionists dissatisfied. The DUP appears torn between a desire to maintain traditional stances and the pressure to shift rightward in response to the Traditional Unionist Voice.

The Future with President Connolly

While some unionists worry about President Connolly’s potential impact on Irish-American relations, the expectation of conflict may be misguided. Engaging positively with the new president could be more beneficial than taking a confrontational approach. The DUP missed opportunities to align itself with Connolly against Sinn Féin, which may prove to be a strategic error in the long term.

Critics have drawn parallels between the DUP’s behavior and that of former leader Ian Paisley, who would have decisively snubbed engagements he deemed unproductive. In contrast, the DUP’s week-long deliberation looks evasive rather than strategic.

As President Connolly embarks on her term, the DUP might need to reconsider its approach to ensure it effectively represents unionist interests in this new political landscape.