Upper Bann MP Commends Loughgall FC After Winning Appeals Against NIFL Decisions

Carla Lockhart MP • August 28, 2024

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has expressed her admiration for Loughgall FC following their successful appeals against Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL) decisions related to Sunday football. The club’s victory not only represents a win on the legal front but also a significant moment for those who uphold their deeply held religious beliefs, a protected characteristic, in today’s society.

"Well done to Loughgall FC. You certainly were not afraid to stand by your deeply held beliefs. This is a victory for many who feel pressured to keep silent on issues relating to their faith and beliefs," said Carla.


Loughgall FC’s appeals centred on their right to maintain their sincerely held principals, which include not playing football on Sundays. The NIFL's initial decisions had forced the club into a challenging position, but the successful appeals have now vindicated their stance.


She added, "This win is not just for Loughgall FC but for everyone who values the right to stand by their principles. In a society where many feel the need to stay silent, this decision sends a powerful message about the importance of holding firm to one’s beliefs."



Loughgall FC’s determination and commitment to their values have resonated widely, highlighting the importance of integrity and the courage to uphold one's convictions in the face of adversity.


Share

NI’s farming community deserves protection from rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 29, 2026
DUP Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has called on the PSNI and Stormont departments to do more to protect farmers and rural communities from escalating levels of crime across Northern Ireland.

MP urges government to support UK bakery sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 28, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has expressed concern at mounting pressures facing the UK bakery sector - a vital cornerstone of our food manufacturing industry and a key employer across Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Lockhart welcomes U-turn on firearms fees

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 27, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the Justice Minister’s decision to withdraw the consultation and go back to the drawing board on controversial proposed increases to firearms licensing fees, and changes to the banded system in Northern Ireland.

MP encouraging local producers to enter BBC Food and Farming Awards

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 25, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has welcomed confirmation that the 2026 BBC Food and Farming Awards will be held in Northern Ireland for the first time.

Lockhart disappointed at court ruling on farmer-led ‘death tax’ challenge

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said she is extremely disappointed that the London High Court has dismissed a farmer-led legal challenge against the Labour Government’s ‘death tax’ reforms.

Lockhart Continues Campaign to End Child Disability Waiting Period Following Commons Intervention

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 22, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has continued her long-running campaign to end the three-month waiting period for Child Disability Living Allowance payments for children diagnosed with life-changing illnesses, following a recent intervention in the House of Commons.

Lockhart Raises Alarm Over Disturbing Online Content Reaching Children Through Digital Games

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 21, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns in the House of Commons regarding the growing number of reports from parents about children being exposed to disturbing and inappropriate content while using digital games and online platforms.

Lockhart Meets Southern Trust Leadership to “Lift the Lid” on Growing Domiciliary Care Pressures

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 20, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said urgent action is needed to address mounting pressures facing domiciliary care services after meeting with Southern Trust leadership alongside DUP colleagues Diane Dodds MLA, Diane Forsythe MLA and Gareth Wilson MLA, as well as Pauline Shepherd, Chief Executive of Independent Health and Care Providers (IHCP), to discuss the challenges facing the sector. 

Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Condition of Lurgan and Kernan Cemeteries

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 20, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns regarding the condition of both Lurgan and Kernan Cemeteries following a growing number of complaints from residents and families.

Lockhart Reaffirms Opposition to Digital ID “Voluntary Does Not Cut It”

By Carla Lockhart MP • May 20, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reaffirmed her opposition to Digital ID, warning that proposals being advanced by Government raise serious concerns around privacy, personal freedom and individual choice.