As we take stock of this century of achievement, Ulster Unionists have every reason to feel proud.

The important thing is that we get the matter resolved in a way that enables both sides to feel that their rights have been vindicated.

Circumstances give in reality to every political principle, its distinguishing colour, and discriminating effect. The circumstances are what render every civil and political scheme beneficial or noxious to mankind.

We are very proud that we were good enough to compete. We feel like we had the best compelling reason for the Air Force to locate in Selma, but you cannot take the politics out of politics. The long delay in announcing shows how difficult the decision was for the Air Force. The project brought the team and the community together.

A man acquainted with history may, in some respect, be said to have lived from the beginning of the world, and to have been making continual additions to his stock of knowledge in every century.

We now have a chance to create a genuine partnership between unionists and nationalists in a novel form of government.