DUP Leader Rejects Irish Unity, Criticizes Culture in Conference

The leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), Gavin Robinson, firmly dismissed the prospect of a united Ireland during the party’s annual conference held on October 14, 2023, at the La Mon House Hotel near Belfast. Robinson asserted that a united Ireland is “not inevitable” and emphasized that he does not foresee it occurring within his lifetime. He reiterated the DUP’s commitment to maintaining support for the pro-Union case, stating, “in no circumstances” would he accept “the break-up of our Union.”

Robinson’s speech addressed electoral dynamics, claiming that nationalist support has “barely” changed over the past 25 years. He expressed skepticism over Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill‘s prediction of a border poll by 2030, suggesting it would quickly “melt away.”

The DUP leader took a critical stance on what he termed “institutional intolerance of Protestant culture and heritage” within the Republic of Ireland. He referenced the controversy surrounding Fine Gael presidential candidate Heather Humphreys, who faced backlash due to her family ties to the Orange Order. Robinson described the situation as reflective of a society where individuals are vilified for their religious affiliations. He further criticized the Irish government for its perceived hypocrisy, declaring that it “claims neutrality, but lectures the world on human rights.”

During a panel discussion titled “Promoting Northern Ireland’s Place in the United Kingdom,” Prof. Peter Shirlow, director of the University of Liverpool’s Institute of Irish Studies, noted a consistently positive response to pro-Union events across Northern Ireland, even among non-unionists. Panel chair Sammy Wilson highlighted the importance of promoting the Union positively, indicating that many individuals, while not dedicated DUP supporters, wish to remain part of the United Kingdom.

The conference attracted several hundred delegates, while outside, a protest organized by members of the Burke family featured placards with messages such as “DUP denies Christian belief” and accusations of the party “sacrificing children to LGBTQI+ agenda.” Inside, Robinson received a standing ovation, reflecting the support he has within the party as he prepares for the upcoming 2027 Assembly election.

Robinson’s confident address underscored the DUP’s focus on unionist unity and a strong defense of devolution, particularly in light of the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV), which opposes the Belfast Agreement. He also touched on issues such as “illegal and uncontrolled immigration,” gender identity, and the party’s support for “common sense” over what he referred to as “radical woke ideology.”

Following the conference, Jon Tonge, a politics professor at the University of Liverpool, commented on Robinson’s assertive speech, stating it marked a “return to form” for the DUP. Tonge noted that the emphasis was on maintaining the Assembly rather than collapsing it, presenting a more optimistic message as the Assembly election approaches. He acknowledged the looming presence of TUV leader Jim Allister, who is likely to capitalize on any mistakes made by the DUP in the lead-up to the election.

While Robinson previously suggested that it would be premature to start the election campaign 19 months prior, the atmosphere at the conference suggested otherwise. Tonge remarked, “This, to me, fired the starting pistol,” indicating a renewed urgency in DUP politics as it navigates the challenges ahead.