Politics

Audio: Former UUP MLA Danny Kennedy signs on the dole

Danny Kennedy lost his seat in the assembly election held in March this year 
Danny Kennedy lost his seat in the assembly election held in March this year  Danny Kennedy lost his seat in the assembly election held in March this year 

FORMER Ulster Unionist MLA Danny Kennedy has been forced to sign on the dole after losing his seat in March's assembly election.

Mr Kennedy, who represented Newry and Armagh since 1998, lost his seat in the divisive election campaign which he described as a battle between 'orange and green'.

Sinn Féin made history during the election, boosting the number of nationalist seats to a majority at Stormont. Cathal Boylan, Megan Fearon and Conor Murphy dominated the constituency, with the SDLP's Justin McNulty returning, and the DUP's William Irwin claiming the unionist votes.

Mr Kennedy had been an MLA since 1998 and had previously held ministerial portfolios including Minister for the Department of Employment and Learning, and more recently the Department for Regional Development.

Speaking to Kevin McAllister on Q Radio, the UUP member described his first time signing on and how employees recognised him from a previous visit.

"One or two of them reminded me that my previous visit to the Jobcentre in Newry was as minister of employment and learning."

The former deputy leader of the UUP said he remains optimistic as he looks for work.

Mr Kennedy said: "There are issues where I still feel I have a contribution to make either through public service or generally to the community."