Paisley bows out with letter of thanks
The letter, accompanied by a picture of Mr. Paisley and his son, Ian Junior, suggests that when the retiring MP was first elected, North Antrim was suffering neglect in many areas.
Mr. Paisley spoke of poor roads and poor representation, but through his decidcation and determination he had endeavoured to see that situation reversed through provision of the first full-time professional constituency services for all sections of the community irrespective of class or creed.
Today, that office deals with tens of thousands of cases.
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Hide AdMr. Paisley goes on to say that North Antrim gets its fair share of public resources with proper road, transport and public services delivered. He says he has also seen the tourism potential of the constituency developed and as the farmers' friend, he has worked to ensure that the country's main industry is given as much help as possible.
"I am delighted that today North Antrim is renowned as a successful business and communith hub and the envy of Northern Ireland," he said.
Mr. Paisley described it as a pleasure and a privilege to serve and be the voice of North Antrim in the Mother of Parliaments.
"I am honoured by your loyalty to me throughout these forty years and I shall never forget your commitment and support which have inspired me since you first elected me," he concluded.
The letter quotes Ephesians chapter 6 and verses 19 and 20: