DUP Leader in Upper Bann as DUP MP declares party ‘election ready’

Carla Lockhart MP • November 1, 2022

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart was joined by DUP Leader Rt. Hon. Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP on a visit to the constituency last week, as uncertainty remains over the possibility of an election to the Northern Ireland Assembly before Christmas.

Commenting, Carla Lockhart said:

“For weeks now we have had the Secretary of State claim that he will announce the date of an election, with much speculation over 15th December as a potential polling day.

Many commentators have said this was a tactic to ramp up pressure on the DUP to re-enter the Northern Ireland Executive. If this was the goal, the Secretary of State has missed it. We are quite clear – the DUP received a mandate on the basis of the Protocol being replaced prior to a return to Stormont. We will not renege on our commitments to our electorate.

Threats of elections are not something we fear. We are election ready, prepared to go to the people to reinforce our mandate. An election will not change a thing, so if the Secretary of State persists with this it is for him to explain the merit of bringing people to the polls ten days before Christmas.

It was good to have Sir Jeffrey in the constituency today to engage with local community representatives. Jeffrey has shown strong leadership in ensuring the Government recognise the need for action on the Protocol, and despite the pressure being placed on him he has shown the resolve needed to face down threats. I know that, should the Secretary of State continue with an election, Jeffrey’s stance will receive a resounding endorsement not least here in Upper Bann.”

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart expresses bitter disappointment at failure to add MLD to newborn heel-prick screening

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 9, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has spoken of her bitter disappointment following confirmation that Metachromatic Leukodystrophy (MLD) will not be added to the routine newborn heel-prick screening programme, despite sustained campaigning and evidence that the condition can be treated if identified at birth.

MP welcomes DAERA support for BTV movement testing within control zones

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 8, 2026

Confirmation that DAERA will absorb laboratory costs associated with the mandatory pre-movement testing of animals in the designated Bluetongue Temporary Control Zone, has been welcomed by Carla Lockhart MP.

£2.5m inheritance tax threshold a hard-won concession, but remains insufficient

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 8, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has described the Labour government’s increased inheritance tax threshold on agricultural and business property relief as a hard-won and welcome concession, but says it remains insufficient.

New Year Message to the People of Upper Bann

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 7, 2026

As we enter a new year, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reflected on the challenges of the past 12 months while setting out her priorities for 2026, reaffirming her commitment to serving constituents across the area.

Lockhart Shows Support for Morning Buzz Coffee

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed a new local business venture after visiting Morning Buzz Coffee, praising the commitment and initiative behind a one-man operation serving the local community.

Rural Roads Must Be Taken Seriously During Severe Winter Weather

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about the safety of rural roads during the current spell of severe winter weather, following a recent bus incident at Esky and ongoing engagement with Roads Service officials on gritting arrangements, grit salt availability and the treatment of rural routes across the constituency.

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Delays to Red Flag Breast Appointments

By Carla Lockhart MP • January 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns over significant delays facing women referred to breast clinics under the “red flag” pathway across Northern Ireland, with waiting times stretching far beyond the 14-day target designed to ensure rapid assessment where breast cancer is suspected.