Lurgan Twelfth a wonderful celebration of culture and heritage

Carla Lockhart MP • July 18, 2023

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has congratulated Lurgan District and all Orange brethren and bands for a hugely successful Twelfth of July demonstration in Lurgan. The streets where thronged with large crowds, who despite the inclement weather enjoyed the spectacle. Mrs Lockhart also welcomed the attendance of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, at the parade.

Commenting, the DUP representative said:

“The Twelfth of July is a wonderful family day out, with colour, music and pageantry the like of which is not seen anywhere else in Europe. It brings together all generations in what is a wonderful celebration of culture and heritage.

Lurgan District must be congratulated for hosting such a highly successful Twelfth. The only thing out of their control – the weather – might have done its best to dampen spirits but it did not succeed. Despite the rain, the celebrations were not quelled in any way.

It was heartening to see such large numbers on parade and particularly to see so many younger members of the Instituion. The future of the Orange Order locally is certainly secure given the age profile of many lodges. With so many bands having young people in the ranks, it is encouraging for the future as so many wish to express their culture and heritage.

We also had the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Chris Heaton-Harris MP, join with us in Lurgan for his first experience of the Twelfth. There are those who continue to demonise the Orange Institution, and there is no better way to dispel the myths than to attend a parade and talk with members of the Institution. I know the Secretary of State enjoyed his day, and I want to thank County Armagh Grand Orange Lodge for the very welcome invitation issued to him. We have a rich heritage to celebrate and to promote, and certainly the Twelfth in Lurgan succeeded in doing just that to all in attendance.”

< 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.