Flooding Response

Carla Lockhart MP • November 8, 2023

DUP Leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP and Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart have met with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris to press for a flood payment scheme to help flood victims in Northern Ireland. South Down MLA Diane Forsythe and Strangford MP Jim Shannon also attended the meeting in Westminster. 

Speaking afterwards Carla Lockhart said, 


“This was a useful and positive meeting. There are scores of businesses in Northern Ireland who have been pushed to the point of bankruptcy by the recent flooding. Most of these are in retail but there are manufacturing and agri-food traders also hard hit. Such are the costs of reopening, some are considering just pulling the shutters down. 


Whilst homeowners have had their £1,000 emergency flood payment, this does not go far in restoring a home to its pre-flood condition or paying for alternative accommodation. 


It is vital that the UK Government steps in and provides the kind of assistance that is needed in our flood hit communities. Jobs and livelihoods are on the line. 


We have underscored with the Secretary of State the need to secure a Treasury funds to provide a substantial scheme in Northern Ireland which can help people and businesses through this crisis.”

Share

UK-EU reset agreement must deliver tangible benefits

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 26, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has noted the Westminster EFRA Committee’s 5th report on UK-EU Agri-trade, saying an SPS agreement with the EU could deliver real tangible benefits if negotiated properly. 

MP urges Chancellor to restore confidence in British farming

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 27, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart MP is calling on the Chancellor to use the upcoming Spring Budget to right the wrongs of her previous actions.

Northern Ireland Cannot Be Left Behind Under Industry and Exports Bill

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised the Government’s decision to push through the Industry and Exports Bill without accepting safeguards to ensure Northern Ireland benefits equally from increased financial support.

Lockhart Welcomes Staffing Boost for Banbridge Delivery Office Amid Ongoing Postal Delays

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has confirmed four new staff to begin work following engagement with Royal Mail over unacceptable delays. She has welcomed confirmation that four new staff members are due to commence work at Banbridge Delivery Office following her recent meeting with Royal Mail senior management regarding ongoing postal delays.

Lockhart Tables Motion Condemning Glorification of Terrorism and Demands Law Change

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled a motion in Parliament condemning remarks made by Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald and calling for urgent legislative reform to prevent the glorification of convicted terrorists.

Lockhart Praises World-Leading Ulster Carpets as a Flagship Manufacturer for Northern Ireland

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Ulster Carpets following a visit to the Portadown-based, family-controlled manufacturer, describing it as a world-leading company that continues to showcase the very best of Northern Ireland industry on the global stage. With its global export success, major multi-million pound investment and 350 strong workforce at Portadown Ms Lockhart has hailed it a world leading manufacturer.

Lockhart Praises Annaghmore Crown Defenders After Successful Community Breakfast

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Annaghmore Crown Defenders Flute Band following a hugely successful community breakfast event.

Lockhart Welcomes Lisa Partridge’s Appointment to Support UDR Benevolent Fund

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the recent appointment of local woman Lisa Partridge to support and promote the work of the UDR Benevolent Fund.

Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Poor Mobile Phone Coverage in Upper Bann

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about ongoing poor mobile phone coverage across Upper Bann and is compiling evidence to present to network providers.

Lockhart Seeks Urgent Treasury Meeting Over Proposed Changes to Childminders’ Tax Allowance

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns and written to the Chancellor seeking an urgent meeting with the Treasury over HMRC proposals to remove the long-standing 10% “wear and tear” tax-free allowance for childminders who transition onto Making Tax Digital.