Unionist stand off forces by-election

A by-election is to be held in Fermanagh after a UUP and DUP stand off, it was revealed tonight.

Ulster Unionist councillor Bertie Kerr objected to a Democratic Unionist bid to fill a vacancy at Fermanagh District Council without going to the electorate because the changing climate within unionism left the seat within the grasp of his party, he claimed.

The empty place arose following the death of DUP Stormont finance minister Nigel Dodds’ father Joe, with the by-election likely by August or September.

Mr Kerr said: “The UUP has been very quiet the last few years and it is about time we spoke up again.”

In the recent Dromore by-election the DUP lost votes to a strong challenge from MEP Jim Allister’s Traditional Unionist Voice party.

The DUP had wanted to nominate Thomas Hogg as Mr Dodds’ replacement but Mr Kerr demanded a fresh election.

“The people of Enniskillen should have the choice of who they can elect,” he added.