The Open Unionism blogsite is hosting a series of articles of the current Leadership contest. Here is my contribution:
I am quite taken with a story attributed to Charles Handy, the influential management guru, about a particular type of South American frog. If you put this frog in a pot of cold water, and slowly heat it, the frog will die, because it did not spot the existential threat in the changing environment.
I do not wish to be the type of unionist that fails to spot the evolving threats around us. But when it comes to change, I am also the sort of person who says “be careful what you wish for.” Change for change’s sake could turn out to be as big a threat to the Party as inertia; neither is an acceptable way forward.
Prune a rose bush in the right way, at the right time, and you will see it grow. Hack it to bits and you will kill it.
The change I want to see is planned, tested, surgical in nature. I am not afraid of a little pruning back this winter, if it yields a better blossom in time for next year’s elections. But makes sure the secateurs are in the right hands!
I want a link with the Conservatives, but our candidates to stand as Ulster Unionists. That’s Tom.
I want co-operation with fellow unionists, but no unity. That’s Tom.
I want to improve the relationship between UUP Headquarters and the Constituency Associations. That’s Tom.
When I started my broadcasting career many years, I was attracted by the shooting stars of the industry, presenters and producers alike. There were other “steady Eddie” types, but I could not figure what they offered. I know now, because it is they and their organisations that survived and thrived.
In my career, I had to make a difficult decision between wanting to be liked or respected. I choose the latter, and it’s a value that informs all my big decisions today. Because earning respect in this context means listening to what your members want, making difficult decisions, and spotting when the water’s getting hot.
mike do you not realise Eliott, Cobain and McNarry have killed the link with the Conservatives?
Also how do you feel about Elliott’s remarks about Gay Pride and the GAA?
Elvis, sorry for the delay in replying. I disagree with your comments about the Conservative link. You may be right to imply some people want rid of it, but the only opinion that matters of the three you mention is Tom’s – and only then if he gets elected. And I know he has not killed the link. On the contrary, he is trying to make sure the link delivers for the UUP and for NI. Delivery is the key to Tom’s campaign, and I think he is the only one who can deliver a united Party after the vote on the 22nd.
Best wishes and renewed apologies for making you wait for an answer.
M