24/11/2011 Party Political Broadcasts - Democratic Unionist Party

No, you don't need to change channel

or go and make a cup of tea.

This isn't a regular

Party Political Broadcast.

The normal broadcast

would involve someone like me,

telling you about our conference on Friday and Saturday

and outlining some of our policies, such as...

More jobs for Northern Ireland.

Lower rates for businesses and homeowners.

Tougher sentences for attacking the elderly.

Better schools.

Whilst these are good policies, they are not our focus tonight.

This evening, we'll forgo party politics.

We want to use this time to make an appeal not for the DUP,

but for others -

our brave servicemen and women and their families.

At present over 8,000 members of our Armed Forces

are fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan.

These are young lives.

Far away from their families and facing each day with uncertainty.

Some soldiers pay the supreme sacrifice.

To date, we have lost over 385 soldiers serving in Afghanistan.

One of them was my husband, Captain Mark James Hale.

Only a few weeks ago our nation came together

to remember those such as Captain Mark Hale.

They gave their last full measure of devotion, abroad and at home,

so that we can enjoy peace and democracy.

There were people of all faiths and none.

That is why, regardless of our views on war,

we should always welcome our boys home.

While some gave their lives,

others came home early with life-changing injuries.

These horrific injuries mean

their homes need adapted.

Others have to learn to walk again.

You may ask, what can I do?

First of all, like everyone participating in this broadcast,

you can donate some of your time or money.

But there are many organisations,

charities and volunteers

striving to help our Armed Forces in a host of ways.

Some help former soldiers adjust to civilian life,

others provide a friendly visit to families who have lost a loved one.

For those soldiers who are serving away from home this Christmas,

there are dozens of organisations

who send out a small gift to each soldier.

These are small measures which make a massive difference.

So tonight, I don't ask for your vote.

Instead, I ask that you give whatever support you can

to those who have given so much.

Whether it is your time or money,

please support an organisation of your choice

and help our soldiers, our veterans and their families.

Please support our soldiers' charities.

To find an organisation near you, search online

or visit your nearest DUP advice centre.