Alliance 'will make Europe work'

Alliance leader David Ford pictured with Ian Parsley (right)

The Alliance Party's candidate for the forthcoming European election has vowed to make Europe work for Northern Ireland.

Ian Parsley said he wanted to make MEPs more transparent on expenses, ensure economic responsibility and promote sustainability.

He was speaking at the launch of his party's manifesto on Wednesday.

Mr Parsley said he wanted to stand up for small businesses and promote politics based not on fear but hope.

He said his campaign would motivate those fed up with single-issue local parties by offering a new type of politics.

Mr Parsley pledged to give people a voice at the heart of Europe.

He said: "This action plan is about bringing a new type of politics to Northern Ireland - one that does not play to their fears, but which listens and delivers for them.

"This is a positive campaign - one which enhances our opportunities in Europe, which rewards those acting responsibly, and which promotes Northern Ireland as a home to conservation, eco-tourism and the green economy.

"I firmly believe this action plan will use our new-found international credibility to place Northern Ireland at the centre of influence in Europe."