Close resigns as Alliance Deputy Leader

Seamus Close has resigned as deputy leader of the Alliance Party of Northern Ireland, it was confirmed today.

Mr Close was standing down after 10 years in the post but remained a member of the party, said an Alliance spokesman.

A member of the Northern Ireland Assembly representing Lagan Valley, Mr Close is also the party’s spokesman on finance and personnel.

Mr Close submitted his resignation on Saturday, an Alliance Party spokesman said.

‘‘He said he recently disagreed with several decisions in the Alliance Party including that to withdraw from North Down during the General Election,’’ he said.

‘‘He said he took a principled stand on the issue as he believed it has the potential to damage the party electorally.

‘‘He also said he had spent 10 years as deputy leader and thought it was time for a change but stressed that there is no friction or animosity between him and Sean Neeson, Alliance’s leader.’’

Mr Neeson would appoint Mr Close’s successor later, the spokesman added.