A new book on the Alliance Party is being launched today in Belfast. A survey of its membership, which has already published some hugely significant findings on the shift towards support for Irish unification, will also tell us more about the party.
Alliance enjoyed an unassailable rise from 2017-23. But since then, its electoral fortunes have been more mixed. The local elections saw gains and inroads, but the party suffered significant defeats in places such as Derry and Strabane.
Similarly, at the most recent Westminster election, a high-profile gain in Lagan Valley was tempered by a big defeat in North Down with the loss of Stephen Farry.
The 2024 Northern Ireland General Election Survey found that since 2019, the Alliance Party has made gains at the expense of the SDLP, UUP and DUP but has hit the bar when it comes to winning over Sinn Féin voters.
When will enough be enough for Israel and its wars in Gaza and Lebanon? - The Irish News view
Mary Kelly: The news these days may be grim – but it’s better than toxic social media
The Alliance surge, as we have known it, is effectively over in real terms, and now they are faced with designing a second........