It has taken almost four months but the writ for the Belfast West by-election has finally been moved. The Government Chief Whip Patrick McLoughlin did the deed yesterday and the date is expected to be 9th June. The seat has been vacant since Gerry Adams resigned from Parliament to successfully contest the Republic of Ireland General Election in March.
The real contest to become the next MP for Belfast West will take place before the actual by-election when Sinn Fein decide on their candidate. Gerry Adams secured over 70% of the vote last year's General Election and Sinn Fein continued their dominance in this constituency earlier this month as their candidates won two thirds of the first preferences cast in the Assembly Election. Paul Maskey pipped his running mates to the top spot on May 5th and he is the only person to throw his hat into the ring thus far. Apparently, Sinn Fein's selection will take place this week.
Here's the 2010 result:
| 2010 |
Sinn Fein | 71.1% |
SDLP | 16.4% |
DUP | 7.6% |
UUP | 3.1% |
Alliance | 1.9% |
Nb. In related news, I have finally found the time to update our Council By-Election page; there will be no rest for the wicked!
In the Assembly elections, Sinn Fein polled 64% of the first preference votes. This was down 7% on the last elections (and I think may well be reflected in the by-election)
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