Matthew Shanks
@matthew_shanks1
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20│Student│@duponline│Views my own
Belfast, Northern Ireland
Joined October 2022
“The world is in revolt. Soon there will be only five Kings left: the King of Clubs, the King of Diamonds, the King of Hearts, the King of Spades, and the King of England” - Farouk I of Egypt. God Save the King!. 🇬🇧
POLL: ‘Do you think the monarchy should remain in place or be abolished?’.Percentage of people who said ‘remain in place’ by age group:. 18-24: 55% (+8).25-34: 52% (+3).35-44: 53% (-7).45-54: 66% (+6).55-64: 76% (+5).65+: 82% (+5). Via @JLPartnersPolls.
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Deleted by Coláiste Feirste not long after posting. Reiterating my previous statement, schools should be a place of learning, not activism. These kids likely know little about the region or the conflict there. Questions to be answered regarding the attendance of staff.
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One thing I know for certain, if I were a young Nationalist or Republican, tweeting my views on a united Ireland and current affairs, I would be lauded as a ‘young leader’ and ‘role model’ for the youth. But I’m a young Unionist, so I get opposite. I’ll fight on regardless.
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The photos and videos included in the original post. Were they embarrassed or ashamed?. “Our revenge will be the laughter of our children” at the end, followed by what seems to be a roar of applause. Shocking. This should not be permitted in schools.
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The pursuit of CANZUK is an absolute necessity & a dream that must be realised. The neglect towards the relationships with our family of nations by successive UK governments is an absolute crime. No other countries are united in more ways than ours. Revive the Anglosphere. 🇬🇧
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This is just Unionists reclaiming their right to an Irish identity. Being 'Irish' doesn't mean you want a united Ireland. I'm Northern Irish and British, but also an Irishman who wants NI, and thus a part of the island of Ireland, to remain within the UK.
James Nebsitt says more unionists and Protestants considering Irish identity .
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Sinn Féin is a partitionist party. In Northern Ireland, the Republic is a beacon of hope and prosperity, a far better thing to be apart of than “Brexit Britain.”. When down south, the Republic is broken, unfair, unequal, and getting ever worse. Which is it?.
Arch separatist, Sinn Fein's Mary-Lou McDonald (🇮🇪) succinctly explains why the Republic of Ireland sucks for young people, forcing them to flee the tiny Statelet on mass. There's no place like home 🇬🇧
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It boggles the mind to see so many individuals my age, especially those who identify with the LGBT community, or those who purport to support them, declare their backing for Palestine at this time. They do it because it’s trendy, plain and simple, like so many others.
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To fully illustrate how ludicrous Belfast City Council’s dual-language street sign policy is, let’s look at some of the statistics regarding Cranmore Gardens. Keep in mind that some of these figures are only rough. 🧵A thread….
The Lord Mayor of Belfast has slammed the "really disappointing" attack on a dual language street sign in South Belfast.
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Their entire brand revolves around ridiculing Unionist people, culture, and history, yet some enthusiastically embrace it as something deserving of praise. If this is the new Nationalist and Republican 'culture,' then we can see what we'd be in for in a so-called 'new Ireland.'.
DUP MLA told to ‘wise up’ over opposition to ‘provocative’ Kneecap gig in Derry
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I would like to see a statue commemorating the reign of Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, constructed in Belfast and other parts of NI in the near future. Hopefully we’ll see something akin to the Victoria Memorial built in her name in London as well.
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I cannot imagine not having been born British, or not being a subject of the King. There’s no other country in the world that has had a greater impact on history than the UK. We’re one of history’s grandest epics. To be born British is to win first prize in the lottery of life.
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@EoinTennyson Wrong. The Scottish Government overstepped with this legislation, way beyond their permitted remit. Regardless of opinions on the matter, this was a breach of their legal limitations. The UK Gov. is halting it on this principle. Perhaps Alliance doesn’t do principles?.
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Completely laughable. There will not, under any circumstances, be a situation whereby the Irish language is foisted upon the community surrounding the new station that is opposed to its introduction. This lot may be used to weighted policies, but not this time, sunshine.
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There is an increasing number of people who think this social media platform represents real life. The reality is that the monarchy has grown in popularity with His Majesty at the helm!. There is no United Kingdom without a king or queen, and that’s that!. God save them all!. 🇬🇧.
We’re almost in 2024 FFS…. When are we going to end all this nonsense?
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“Hawaii is a place apart from the United States… part of the Pacific islands. That’s how everyone else in the world sees it.”. Wait until Brian finds out that countries can surpass their natural borders, and that we’re not concerned with how others see it….
Brian Feeney: "The north is a place apart from Britain. part of the island of Ireland. That’s how everyone else in the world sees it".
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So, the name DOES honour a Republican. ?. That’s a bit of an own goal you’re scoring there, Joe. Perhaps that explains why some Unionists are uncomfortable with the idea?.
Unionist caller to BBCNI radio this morning. Wait for it… “We're not stupid, if Casement Park is built they'll change the name to honour a Republican"
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Brian Feeney must have the easiest job to exist. In every every article he regurgitates the same tired and worn out nonsense and people go absolutely crazy for it. He could write “Unionism bad” in his column and his readers would lap it up like seals.
". the point of unionism is, and always has been, to avoid living on equal terms with the rest of the people on this island".
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“Oh benevolent united Irelanders, please save us from ourselves and carry us into brighter, broader, sunlit uplands!”. Oh, we’re such a burden!. Intensely ironic remarks given that Allison was sharing a platform with @JoeBrolly1993, who regularly decries working class Unionists.
“Grassroots, working class unionism have been sadly abandoned by their political leadership. “They’re being fed a diet of sectarianism and hatred. “We need to make sure they are aren’t completely left behind in our society & in a new Ireland.”. @AllisonMorris1 speaking tonight
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No, Eóin, the concerns of the unionist people matter, and they’ve backed the DUP to raise them. Power-sharing must be built on stable foundations, and we won’t let your shortsightedness get in the way of getting things right.
This self-indulgence should not be entertained a second longer. If the DUP can’t get themselves back into Stormont, then the decision can and should be taken over their heads. Reform Stormont now, remove the veto, and end this merry-go-round of ransom politics - for good.
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Let me get this right, there’s “far too much focus” on…. *checks notes*. Unionists working with the sovereign UK Government to strengthen ties within our country?. If the Irish Government can facilitate discussion about Irish unity, the UK Government can champion the Union!.
SDLP don't just oppose the Command Paper but compain about "far too much focus on East-West".
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Belfast City Council currently has a dual-language signs policy that runs roughshod over the sensitivities regarding identity, which we’re all aware of. There’s no point in those supporting it being naive; it’s marking territory, simple!. How can 15% overruling 85% be justified?.
While I don’t condone any damage being done to public property the DUP group warned from the start that this dual language signs policy was going to create tensions and upset community relations. I received multiple emails from residents in this street, who stated they moved to.
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Was in City Hall earlier. Had a chat with a Unionist, and about 25% of the conversation was in iGaeilge. The Irish language belongs to everyone. Baineann an Ghaeilge le gach duine.
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Clearly, some councillors on Belfast City Council need to get their priorities straight. Well done to the DUP team rightfully questioning the relevance of the motion! . Student politics on behalf of Sinn Fein, the SDLP, and PBP, that’s better suited to a debating society!.
Belfast City Council passes motion to mark international day of solidarity for Palestinians. ➡️
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📣Young People Overwhelmingly Support Unionist Parties📣. A most intriguing poll, and one that reinforces that a united Ireland is not necessarily inevitable, as some would have us believe. This is positive for unionism, & the @UYN_OFFICIAL - both have a bright future ahead. 🇬🇧.
✅ 2nd demographic results of Q1 from the Summer23 LucidTalk @BelTel NI 'Tracker' poll ✅ Results covering Age-Group - SF strongest with middle-age voters, TUV, & SDLP have more older voters, DUP strongest in the 55-64 age-band, Alliance & UUP are best with younger voters etc.
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Is it possible, just possible, that people were singing ‘Zombies’ because it’s an absolute tune, and weren’t thinking about the controversial and divisive history of the island of Ireland?. It’d only be Twitter to turn a rugby match into a political battle.
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As someone from a mixed background, I find this tokenism both sad and very telling. Religion, oddly, seems to be something of a focus for northern Nationalism/Republicanism. Ireland’s Future isn’t a forum for debate, it believes in only one outcome: Irish unity.
🚨Protestant Perspectives🚨. - Lord John Alderdice. - David Adams. - Claire Mitchell. - Wallace Thompson. Ireland’s Future welcomes all perspectives particularly those from the broad Protestant community. We look forward to listening to our panellists on 15 June. More to follow
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It was the UYN’s privilege to contribute to the short documentary being filmed by the lovely @eve__coleman about young people’s perspectives on NI politics. It was great to be able to contribute from a unionist standpoint and discuss our vision for the future. @UYN_OFFICIAL
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I love this argument, because it’s so blatantly stupid. Windsor park was opened in 1905. The royal family changed their name to ‘Windsor’ in 1917. Windsor Park is named after the place, Windsor, in England. 🤡.
@matthew_shanks1 And who is Windsor Park named after? If NI is to work at all & is to survive at all, PUL are going to have to accept some level accommodation of CNR figures. In this case this is the name of an Ulster Protestant nationalist.
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It’s high time there was a forum for young people who wish to see a prosperous Northern Ireland within the United Kingdom. This group will ensure exactly that. Stay tuned, folks.
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Disappointed to see this nonsense occur again, but ultimately not surprised. The deliberate historical revisionism carried out by some is leading to young people thinking this sort of behaviour is acceptable - it is not. Dystopian and destructive - this part of Féile summed up.
The Chanting of “Up the RA” at the Feile , only serves to perpetuate the hate and abuse that young Unionists receive, further increasing the stigma. This creates a toxic-majoritarian attitude , especially towards young Unionists attempting to voice their opinion.
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Repeatedly, Unionists are told that aspects of culture which are inherently Irish pose no threat to their identity or political aspirations. It can be a reality, but the idea is consistently undermined by this sort of thing. “It’s just a sport!”. Is it?. 🤔.
🚨‼️GAELS‼️🚨. Tens of thousands of Gaels across Ireland have now signed our letter to An Taoiseach. For more info on our campaign & our main asks please watch this short video 🎥. You can sign your name to our letter below 👇 . #PlayYourPart #GAA #Gaels
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Agreed. There is no cohesive vision amongst those advocating for Irish unity, only soundbites such as ‘New Ireland’ and ‘shared future’. It is imperative Unionism uses this time wisely to strengthen the Union, while those wanting Irish unity frantically define themselves.
When Unionist Accommodation in a United Ireland is raised ,you often get a vague and ambiguous answer from Nationalist political representatives North and South. This speaks volumes.
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Over the past few weeks, I have been carrying out the work experience module of my degree at @edwinpootsmla’s office alongside other members of the @SBDUP1971 team!. It has been a great experience so far engaging with the community & learning how constituency work is carried out!
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Polling shows Irish ‘unity’ is not happening soon, the current and prospective UK government concur, & citizens in the Republic put it low on their list of priorities. There is no actual “conversation” happening about Irish ‘unity’ outside the circles that have always wanted it.
What criteria would Hilary Benn use for calling a border poll? . Labour Shadow Secretary of State @hilarybennmp says 'it's not even on the horizon". "There is no evidence at all that there would be a majority, so that is for the future.". More on @BBCTheView tonight
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I note that many of the detractors of the @UYN_OFFICIAL are those who gave us, evidently, faux praise when we set up…. The young ‘Unionism’ that Nationalists/Republicans want is one that is open to ‘conversation’ about ending the Union!. No thanks!. 🇬🇧.
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How is the graffiti “sectarian” if the Irish language “belongs to everyone” (as we’re so often told)?. 🤔.
There has been condemnation about “sectarian and anti-Irish graffiti” daubed on a bilingual street sign in south Belfast over the weekend. ➡️
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It was a great privilege to discuss the current situation regarding the Executive and the perspectives of young unionists in NI alongside my @UYN_OFFICIAL colleagues with @BBCJayneMcC and @bbcnewsline!. Thankful to be able to make our voices heard!. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻.
All week we've been looking at how broader unionism views the DUP's boycott of Stormont. Tonight we hear from the Unionist Youth Network, a new group set up to bring together younger people who vote for various unionist parties. Our Political Correspondent Jayne McCormack reports
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10/. You won’t change perceptions of a contentious language by making it more controversial. Belfast City Council’s dual-language sign policy is wholly weighted and entirely unjustifiable. Every day it remains in place it will further stoke tensions like these. ENDS.
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His Majesty continues to be the most impeccable statesman and representative of this great country!. Affection for him grows, as does Britain’s standing around the world because of his, Queen Camilla’s, and the rest of the royal family’s work!. God save them all!. 🇬🇧.
“By addressing our history with honesty and openness we can, perhaps, demonstrate the strength of our friendship today. And, in so doing, we can, I hope, continue to build an ever-closer bond for the years ahead.”. The King speaks at a State Banquet on Day 1 of #RoyalVisitKenya.
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As a resident of Dunmurry, the.displaying of these horrid flags is an.absolute disgrace and disgusting. All.residents of the area have a right to.feel safe and at home, not intimidated.in their own back yard. It is imperative they are removed ASAP.and the perpetrators are found.
A number of these flags have been placed close to the building used as a mosque in Dunmurry. More at 9am @U105radio
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I was pleased to be able to share my thoughts regarding @belfastcc’s dual-language sign policy on @BBCTalkback today alongside @ClaireHanna and @malodoherty!. It is time to change this ludicrous policy!. Listen to the full exchange from 1:03:30 onwards ⬇️.
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Yet more interface attacks!. Despite the recent media narrative portraying the contrary, it’s Loyalist communities that are facing incursions by youths seeking to cause trouble. I won’t hold my breath waiting to see if this is reported on by the media like other incidents.
Yet another night on the interface and yet another attack on the Donegall Pass community from youths coming from the Markets. After liaising with the community police team, TSG unit is now at the Gasworks.
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The @UYN_OFFICIAL continues to go from strength to strength every day!. I’m immensely proud to be part of the team leading the growing network of young unionists working to foster positivity and engagement within our community!. Get in contact to join us on our mission ⬇️:. 🇬🇧
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I’m thoroughly embarrassed that Sorcha is one of my MLAs. As a Unionist in her constituency, I’m disappointed that she fundamentally fails to understand why I, and many others, feel that abstaining from Stormont is necessary. Shortsighted and immature.
DUP Bingo 🎟. ✔️ Gaps remain . ✔️ Really want to go back to govt, promise. ✔️ But also not really. ✔️ Talks are ongoing . ✔️ Final Phase of talks . ✔️Talks have not concluded. 🏠 FULL HOUSE 😮💨.
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A thoroughly enjoyable and successful first time in London!. It was brilliant to meet various DUP and Conservative representatives, tour the House of Lords, and explore the city!. A particular thanks to @LordWeirDUP, @ArleneFosterUK, and @TogetherUKFound for their company!. 🇬🇧.
UYN Representatives, Jack and Matthew, were grateful to spend time with our friends @TogetherUKFound and @ArleneFosterUK . Positive discussions around young people, the Union and Northern Ireland. We look forward to working together with TGUKF in the future
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Dear, on dear…. While not a guest speaker, his participation in the proposed panel represents his overall defeatism. Let us not entertain such fanciful notions!. "Maybe there is a lesson for all unionists to learn: defeat will first originate in your head” - Peter Robinson. 🇬🇧.
DUP founding member Wallace Thompson denies Ireland’s Future claim that he agreed to be guest speaker at event. ✍️ @SJAMcBride .
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Hyperbolic nonsense. Countries have their problems, this is nothing new. The scale of such issues will vary throughout history. The only difference is that, here in NI, we have a segment of politicians who will use this narrative to support their separatist cause.
There’s an end of days feel to Northern Ireland right now. A sort of half-hearted anarchy pervades as swathes of what society takes for granted are breaking down. The scale and nature of the crises now unfolding will have profound political consequences.
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Evidence that a lot of people are allowing themselves to live in echo-chambers because they can’t handle the truth. Very few are having a ‘conversation’ about unity, and those who are aren’t convinced. “Unity by the end of the decade” says Mary Lou…. I think not!.
NI voters would decisively reject Irish unity in border poll, new @IrishTimes survey suggests
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The King is such a well dressed man. Perhaps the finest example of traditional British tailoring. Probably the last king we’ll have that looks so regal and aristocratic; the Prince of Wales doesn’t do it just as well, unfortunately. Raise your standards, gentlemen!
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The @UYN_OFFICIAL continues to grow and expand across Northern Ireland!. @MatthewSprattNI is the perfect choice to act as our West Tyrone Outreach Officer and will lead the way in bringing more passionate young unionists into the UYN from there!. Welcome, Matthew!. 🇬🇧.
A Message from our Newly Appointed West Tyrone Outreach Officer @MatthewSprattNI. Strengthen the Young Unionist Voice. Join the UYN Today
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The speed and enthusiasm in which with the @UYN_OFFICIAL has grown over these past months has been extraordinary, and illustrates the fervour among Unionist youth to challenge growing narratives, build a stronger Union, and preserve NI’s place in the UK for many years to come.
📢JOIN TODAY📢. Embark on a journey to create a Positive and Proactive young Unionist movement , for the future!
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8/. “It’s just a language.”. “It’s just a sign.”. “Tell your people it’s not a problem.”. Newsflash, folks, you don’t get to tell people what to think. Representatives will represent their community and constituents and make their voices heard.
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The good people of Lagan Valley have the common sense to reject Sorcha’s increasing narcissism and arrogance. The DUP stand up for the unionist community, and the people here will recognise that. That said, Sorcha won’t be out much if she spends this much time on Twitter!. 😉.
DUP clearly worried lol. And they should be. Numbers bear that out and they know it. Lagan Valley is a changing place, a diverse place. It needs progressive, positive representation to match & Alliance will deliver that- we ran it close last time-this time we finish the job 💪.
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There are many reasons why I’m proud to be part of the @UYN_OFFICIAL, but I’m most glad to be helping to create a space for young Unionists to confidently express their identity & advocate for our causes. There is no embarrassment in being young and Unionist!. Be proud!. 🇬🇧.
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Wait until Brolly finds out about Denmark’s immigration policies….
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@EoinTennyson If any Act passed by the Scottish administration has an “adverse effect” on how UK wide legislation functions then s35 is invoked. In this case it does. The courts could not enforce such a verdict, and there is clearly no need for it to be taken to court.
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It was great to attend both days of #DUP23 with others in the @QUB_DUA and @UYN_OFFICIAL!. Thoroughly enjoyed catching up and meeting new people!. Everyone took a keen interest in the role of young people in unionism, with lots of encouragement!. #TogetherWeWillSucceed. 🇬🇧
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This is getting to cult-like levels of support for Sinn Fein. They are infallible to their supporters and anything they *actually* do wrong is all just an operation by “the Brits” that is designed to undermine them. But sure, it’s always “the bad ol’ Brits”, isn’t it?.
Me explaining new-age “Irish patriots” to my granny. Me: “They are 26 county ethno-nationalists”. Granny: “Oh so working with British intelligence then to undermine Sinn Fein and unification”. Bingo.
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Wishing His Majesty a full and speedy recovery. Cancer knows no bounds. The whole nation will join in wishing His Majesty well and looks forward to his return to his full duties when in good health!.
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Happy and glorious!. A stunning ceremony and tradition, unlike anything else anywhere in the world!. His Majesty has settled into his role beautifully, along with the Queen!. God save them both!. 🇬🇧.
At the State Opening of Parliament earlier today, The King wore the Imperial State Crown, which His Majesty previously wore at his Coronation in May. The Queen wore the George IV State Diadem, often worn by Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
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@Reunify32 Mate, you thought Windsor Park was named after the royal family, despite being constructed before they adopted the same name. Nobody should really pay any attention to what you say.
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Thank you, Deborah!. Despite some of our counterparts embracing a divisive agenda, we’ll continue to articulate a positive vision for Northern Ireland!. When they go low, we go high!. I know the @duponline will be behind myself, as a member, and the @UYN_OFFICIAL as a friend. 🇬🇧.
Recently @UYN_OFFICIAL got vile abuse for their constructive views on the Union. Today views of Nat/Rep at Kneecap event broadcast on BBC. This band normalise petrol bombs, burning PSNI vans & “Ooh ah up the Ra” chants. Normalising violence is not ok. Fans wearing balaclavas 1/2
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Glad to see the Newsletter picking up on our remarks surrounding this important issue!. Young unionists can have an impact. It is important we call out our peers for their actions when they’re wrong, and ensure that we’re all holding ourselves to a high standard. @UYN_OFFICIAL.
Pro-IRA chanting “perpetuates the hate and abuse that young unionists receive”.
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A response that is emblematic of @JayBasra2’s integrity and good character!. I’ll always be grateful to Jay for helping to give me the confidence to become actively involved in politics!. Glad to see a united front in condemnation of the horrific abuse he has received!. 💪🏻.
🚨NEW: @uuponline Westminster candidate @JayBasra2 speaks to Political Reporter @jamesgould23 following the racist and threatening messages he received on social media. 🚨Mr Basra has reported the abuse to the PSNI and will meet with police today to hand over screenshots. 🎤👇
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It was great helping @BHigginsonUK with his leaflet drop around Newtownbreda today informing residents of his advice clinic, hosted alongside @edwinpootsmla, this Friday 26th April between 12pm-2pm at Knockbreda Parish Church Hall!. #BelfastSouthMidDownDUP.#DUPDelivery
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It was a pleasure to discuss in depth the UYN’s plans for the future with @deborah_cheryl, as well as how we can work with all Unionist parties to achieve the goals we’ve set out and, ultimately, strengthen Unionism. It was my first visit to Stormont too!. 🇬🇧. @UYN_OFFICIAL.
We had a productive meeting with @deborah_cheryl, the @duponline Spokesperson for young people, at Stormont. We discussed our goals for the group and its future events.
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9/. Fundamentally, it’s an issue of identity, and we all know this. However, some people deliberately treat the situation naively, ignoring the fact that there is predominantly one community in N. Ireland that is affiliated with the Irish language, and the other side is not.
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5/. This decreases further to 10.11% when you use the rough figure of 346 people living on the street who are aged 19 and above, but not all of whom are necessarily on the electoral register. Does that sound democratic?. 🤔.
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It was a real pleasure to hear from @J_Donaldson_MP tonight, who gave a passionate vision for the future of unionism; one that is strong, united.& driven!. It’s great to be part of the ever-growing @SBDUP1971 team; hard-working representatives who deliver for all!. 🇬🇧.
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6/. Cranmore Gardens had 357 (76%) people with “no ability in Irish,” according to the 2021 census. Plus, only 34 people on the street can actually *read* Irish! . This means that only 33% of people who claimed to have an “ability” in Irish on the street can actually *read* it.
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Great to have His Royal Highness at Ulster University today!. Despite attempts to disrupt things by a discourteous vocal minority, students cheered when the Prince entered the main building and welcomed the opportunity to have a chat!.
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Agreed, Doug. Thank you for your support. We won’t let you down!.
@Matthew24Dillon @Choyaa13 @JayBasra2 @UYN_OFFICIAL @J_Donaldson_MP They want you to be afraid to state your opinions. Don’t let them win.
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Great to see Zac joining the DUP!. Another young voice joining the party and helping build Unionism!. 🇬🇧.
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Heinous. Remembrance weekend is sacred in the UK and any disruption would be a disgusting display of disrespect. If this goes ahead, the British people will wake up and see these people for who they really are and who they’re loyal to. Our Glorious Dead WILL be remembered!. 🇬🇧.
🔴A pro-Palestine rally is set to go ahead on Remembrance weekend, prompting fears that commemorations could be disrupted.
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Immensely proud to have assisted in the joint effort by the founding members of the @UYN_OFFICIAL to create this list of goals for the future. This is the start of something new. We, and our ever increasing number of members, are determined to make this a success!.
Our Goals :.-Encourage Young Unionist Partcipation .-Foster engagement with Unionist parties .-Connect Unionist Groups .-Create an open space for Young Unionist voices
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4/. Considering these figures, some of which are only rough, if 35 people on a street of roughly 287 people who are on the electoral register supported the dual-language sign, it means approximately only 12.19% of those on the street actually supported it. 12.19 percent!!!.
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The DUP continues to hold firm!. Despite a repeated media narrative to the contrary, Unionist voters are overwhelmingly behind the party and @J_Donaldson_MP’s strategy and message!. Steady as she goes @duponline! We’re with you!. 🇬🇧.
EXCLUSIVE: @LucidTalk poll for @BelTel . 🔷SF 31% (unchanged from August). 🔷DUP 28% (+2). 🔷Alliance 16% (+1). 🔷UUP 8% (-2). 🔷SDLP 6% (-). 🔷TUV 4% (-1). DUP has closed the gap on SF from 8 points in #AE22 to 3. (1/2).
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An insightful discussion with @DavidJonesMP, who showed an in-depth understanding of unionist concerns regarding the Protocol/Windsor Framework. We greatly appreciate the support he gave to us and the unionist cause, as well as taking the time to meet with us!. 🇬🇧.
In London, Jack and Matthew were pleased to meet with Deputy Chairman of the European Research Group, @DavidJonesMP. We expressed concerns of young unionists regarding the Sea Border, and discussed the importance of strengthening relations with representatives across the UK.
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This was a great event to attend alongside other members of @UYN_OFFICIAL!. It was fabulous to hear about local history, how council works day-to-day, and to meet a number of passionate councillors alongside @TB_Elliott MLA!. Many thanks to @RoyCrawford007 for organising!. 🇬🇧.
Last Night members of the UYN attended a Local Government Information Night organised by @RoyCrawford007 at Enniskillen Town Hall. It allowed young people to get a sense of how our local council works.
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Another year, another conference!. It’s hard to believe it has been nearly a year since joining the @duponline!. One thing is clear: this is the party with a vision for Unionism’s future and has the growing backing of evermore young people!. #MakingNIWork #DUP24
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@ScottMoore0 Respectfully Scott, it wouldn’t be unlike you to spread misinformation. The UYN has no official position regarding RSE but is open to all opinions and encourages informed debate. Your denigration of our interest in local politics is unfair and disappointing.
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Happy New Year, folks!. Much like everyone, my year had its ups and its downs, but I’ve achieved things I would never have thought possible this time last year and met some amazing people!. I look forward to seeing what the new year brings, and wish you all a good one!. 🥳.
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@JoeBrolly1993 A contribution like yours, preferably? One where you deride and insult entire communities in NI for the sake of improving your own publicity?. No thanks.
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Such a dreadful system for victims to endure. It’s not the first time I’ve known someone to be so painfully let down by it. Perpetrators go unpunished while victims are left to deal with the trauma that affects them for years, and never really leaves them. Zac is very brave. 💙.
Firstly before I get into this I want to say that I am not writing this for pity or for likes, it is to raise awareness to let others out their know that you are not alone and that I know what you’ve gone through because of my experience. Honestly, this is the hardest tweet I.
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Scott Moore continues to denigrate young people with whom he disagrees and discourage them from becoming politically involved. Despite your repeated attempts, young Unionists like myself and others, inside the @UYN_OFFICIAL and out, will not allow ourselves to be deterred.
Imagine running the Unionist Youth Network, undermining young people’s interests and serving as a PR prop for the DUP and UUP…. …all for the privilege of being the UUP’s candidate for Mid Ulster. Where the UUP get 6% of the vote.
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It was great to take part in this interview with other members of the @UYN_OFFICIAL!. The Executive cannot be restored without the complete confidence of one of the core communities in NI. The vast majority of unionists back the DUP’s position!. We need to get this deal right!.
Meet the Gen Z unionists with strong opinions on the Stormont stalemate - and how to fix it
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Disappointed I couldn’t be there, but, once again, I’m very proud of the progress our group is making. The @UYN_OFFICIAL will work tirelessly to ensure the unionist voice is carried on throughout the coming generations, and that NI’s place in the Union is secure. Join us⬇️. 🇬🇧.
Yesterday’s @UYN_OFFICIAL meeting alongside Prof. Bridget Brownlow and Steven Egan from the @WIPLive. Exciting times ahead.
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Great to be in attendance with other members of the Executive of the UYN!. It was fantastic to talk about our ideas for the future with the @duponline team in Belfast City Hall, how we can work together, and to get some useful advice on how we can grow!. @UYN_OFFICIAL . 🇬🇧.
The UYN Executive had the pleasure of meeting with the @duponline Belfast City Council Group at Belfast City Hall. We discussed the future of young people within unionism and the support we can give them. A very productive meeting.
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Fantastic discussion with these guys about the future of Unionism and our vision for the years to come!. I’m really glad to be part of it and I echo Joel’s optimism!. Make sure to give each of them a follow!.
Just finished a really productive conversation with some fellow young unionists. Feeling optimistic about our future! . For too long, young unionists have felt discouraged and hesitant about getting involved in politics. It’s so great to see more and more young people speak up!.
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3/. 50 people out of the total 124 surveyed did not respond (40.32%). Remember, the 124 people surveyed only amounted to 43% of the street in the first place!. Overall, less than approx. 4/10 of those eligible on the street were surveyed, with only 4/10 subsequently responding.
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7/. The only reason the measure passed is due to the unjustifiably low threshold of 15% of respondents needing to accept the proposal. Since 35 respondents gave their approval, amounting to 28.23%, and over the required 15% of the total 124 consulted, the measure passed.
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A brilliant article by @Choyaa13!. Thorough, analytical, and precise!. There will be some who will dismiss this and declare it ‘self-pity’, but with the online world being one of the main ways people engage in politics nowadays, what is said here matters. Glad to contribute!.
This is the first of a two-parter from me for @SluggerOToole in which I look at the disproportionately high volumes of trolling and abuse Unionists receive online.
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⚠️ Potholes and Faulty Street Light.🚨 Dunmurry & Kingsway. I have reported several potholes within my local area, particularly Glenburn Road, & a dangerous street light with exposed wiring. I’m also working closely with @SBDUP1971 to address issues raised by a resident here.
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Great to be out and about in East Belfast with @GRobinsonDUP and other members of the @duponline assisting in our leaflet drop!. There is only one party committed to making Northern Ireland work!. #VoteDUP
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Jay is a passionate young voice who is dedicated to his community and its people!. He’s entirely deserving of a vote for the NIYF Executive Committee, which I know he’ll strengthen with his character and ability!. Ages 11-25 can vote below⬇️.
On this dreary and grey day , the polls open for the NIYF Executive Committee elections. So my Campaign Begins. I am Standing as a Candidate with the support of the @UYN_OFFICIAL , as I want to help build Unionism's Future. Vote Basra .Open to 11-25.
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@JackSteele_ @EthanJThoburn @JamieBrysonCPNI @Centre4TheUnion The replies to this tweet show that the report has managed to anger, and worry, all the right people.
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2/. Reportedly, 124 people responded to the consultation (43% of those registered on the street), of whom only 35 gave their support, so 28.23% of respondents. Equally, 35 (28.23%) of respondents rejected the proposal. 4 people had no opinion either way (3.23%).
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I’m so proud that the @UYN_OFFICIAL has given so many young unionists the chance to make our voices heard in the public sphere!. It’s imperative that we put our opinions out there and ensure people know that there are young people who want to see the Union endure!. 🇬🇧.
One of our Women’s Officers, @RachMcCaughey, participated in a discussion on @BBCevex this past week. She did well in representing the concerns that many Unionists have concerning the WF, a debilitating health service and proper funding for NI from the UKG.
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I’m pleased to have attended the @duponline manifesto launch today alongside party friends & colleagues!. The DUP will unashamedly & positively advocate for Northern Ireland & work to protect our cherished Union. If you want a team that delivers, #VoteDUP on the 4th of July!
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