DUP - Robinson or Dodds to make the deal?

stuartfanning

It has been noticeable for some time that Peter Robinson and Nigel Dodds have been getting more uncomfortable with Ian Paisley's un-compromizing stance vis-a-vis Sinn Fein.
Paisley was persuaded to tour the NI in the DUP Battlebus while Robinson and Dodds handled the TV. This was done to limit some of the damage Paisley would do in TV interviews.
Therefore surely Robinson and Dodds have some strategy to sideline Paisley post-Election so that a compromize of some sort can be agreed.
What does everyone think? Will one of the two come to the fore as the pressures mount?

mike65

The DUP have until had the luxury of not being the largest party now though, in that postion, they have to start to show some leadership. I think Dodds and Robinson understand that perfectly well but Paisley will never not say "never!". Luckily he's getting old and he will have to give way. It may be messy when it happens but it has to happen.

Sinn Fein have a role to play to of course. They now are the largest nationalist party had also have to show greater willingness to be a proper constitutional party. They have to make it clear that they and the IRA are no longer linked in any way shape or form.

Mike.

Victor

As you say, Paisley is now an old man and probably won't be in active politics for much longer (hopefully!). Robinson needs to take a certain leadership role to prevent the DUP becoming a Paisley Junior fiefdom.