Speaking at the count after the declaration of results, Carla Lockhart said:

“When you look across results right across Northern Ireland, Lagan River is one that stands out as a huge success for the DUP. To increase our vote by almost 1000 votes is an incredible feat, all the more so when you consider that for the last number of weeks we have had the kitchen sink thrown at us by our opponents.

I want to congratulate Mark, Paul and Tim on this outstanding victory. It is an endorsement of them as local Councillors who get the job done, and are very much involved in community life. A special word of congratulations must go to Mark Baxter, who with 2261 first preference votes has one of the highest personal mandates of any Councillor in Northern Ireland. This in itself is a remarkable achievement, but comes as no surprise to those of us who know how hard he works for the local community.

We will continue to work as a strong DUP team in Lagan River, delivering on the day to day issues that impact upon our constituents. We will also use this mandate to address unionist concerns with the Protocol. The people of Lagan River have given us a mandate to restore our place in the UK internal market. We will use this mandate when we engage with the Government on this vitally important issue.”