Paisley: Hoping for more progress

Political parties in Northern Ireland are preparing for an election which could see a hard-fought and aggressive campaign.

Ian Paisley's DUP is hoping to consolidate its position after making gains in the 2001 general election.

At the last general election seven of the province's 18 seats changed hands and many predict some further upsets in a May 5 general election.

Ulster Unionist Roy Beggs is facing a tough fight in his Antrim East constituency - where he has a majority of just 128.

The DUP is seeking to deal a fresh blow to the mainstream unionists.

David Trimble is also facing a challenge in Upper Bann, a seat he holds with a majority of just over 2,000.

Paisley's people are also posing a risk to the UUP in the marginal Antrim South constituency.

Nationalist divisions

In nationalist areas the SDLP is facing an easier ride following the backlash against Sinn Fein but could still see a strong challenge in two of its three Westminster seats.

Whether Sinn Fein's recent woes will be enough to hold the party off in the seat held by the SDLP's Seamus Mallon in Newry and Armagh.

In that seat nationalist will go head to head with nationalist, and a Sinn Fein victory is predicted by some - although Mallon may still announce his retirement.

On a good day Sinn Fein could also snatch the SDLP's Foyle seat, where former leader John Hume has announced he is standing down.