A NUMBER of little known parties and groupings is testing the elections. They include:
. Arthur Templeton Independent: Running with fellow Newtownabbey independent unionist councillor Fraser Agnew in South Antrim. Argues for maintenance of Union. No representative, on top up regional list.
. Democratic Partnership: 18 constituency candidates, and 10 names on regional list. Comprised of Peace People members, community activists and voluntary workers. Seeks to heal political divisions through partnership approach to politics.
. Independent Chambers: 38 constituency candidates, and 10 names on regional list. A unionist grouping headed by Alan Chambers, a Groomsport based councillor in Co Down whose primary goal is maintenance of Union.
. Independent Democratic Unionist Party: Ten candidates, and five on regional list. Main goal is the maintenance of Union.
. Independent McMullan: Eleven constituency candidates, and 10 names on regional list. Led by Cushendall based councillor Oliver McMullan, it embraces polices of New Ireland Movement, and wants all party talks without preconditions. Wants Irish dimension to political settlement.
. Ulster Christian Democrat Party: Five candidates, all running in South Belfast. No candidates on regional list.
. Ulster Independence Movement: 41 constituency candidates, and 10 names on regional list. Under leadership of Mr Hugh Ross, it wants negotiated independence for Northern Ireland.
. Ulster Independent Voice: Eight constituency candidates, and 10 names on regional list. Led by Bangor based taxi driver Chris Carter, it seeks community reconciliation. Strong on bread and butter issues.