Upper Bann MP welcomes launch of Musical Instruments for Bands Funding Programme

Carla Lockhart MP • June 24, 2025

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has welcomed the launch of this year’s Musical Instruments Programme by Communities Minister Gordon Lyons MLA a vital funding opportunity for local bands, music groups and individual musicians.

Speaking following the announcement, Carla Lockhart said:

“I am delighted to see the launch of this year’s Musical Instruments for Bands funding, which will provide £750,000 in support for the purchase of new instruments across Northern Ireland.

Our local bands and music groups play such an important role in our community and culture, and this funding recognises the value of that contribution. It will make a real difference, helping particularly marching bands to grow, improve their musical offering, and continue inspiring the next generation of musicians.

I would encourage all eligible bands and individuals across Upper Bann to consider applying. If anyone needs support or assistance with the process, please do not hesitate to get in touch with my office.”

Further information and applications are available here:

https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/news/communities-minister-lyons-launches-musical-instruments-programme

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Fivemiletown review exposes DAERA failures but leaves questions unanswered

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 10, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said the independent review into the Fivemiletown cattle cull has exposed serious failings within DAERA, but warned that it falls well short of delivering the transparency and accountability demanded by farmers and the wider public.

Farmers must fight back as carbon auditing proposals come before Stormont

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 8, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has urged farmers across Northern Ireland to make their voices heard as DAERA’s controversial carbon auditing proposals are set to come before the Stormont Assembly on Thursday.

Treasury Minister’s reckless comments show a disconnect for working people

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised Treasury chief secretary Emma Reynolds for suggesting that employers are not working people, warning that her comments demonstrate a worrying lack of understanding of the pressures facing small businesses, family farms and self-employed people.

Minister must apply common sense and revise slurry spreading ban

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart is urging the DAERA Minister to revise the rigid rules on the spreading of slurry in Northern Ireland, saying current policy should not come at the expense of common sense.

Upper Bann’s Ross selected for Oxford Farming Conference Inspire Programme

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 6, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has congratulated Ross Murray on his selection for the prestigious Oxford Farming Conference 2027 Inspire Programme. He is one of just two Northern Ireland industry representatives chosen for the initiative.

PSNI are all over the place on the IRA

By Carla Lockhart MP • November 5, 2026

Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart, has criticised comments made by the Chief Constable at today’s Policing Board meeting regarding the continued existence of the IRA.

Lockhart slams Budget as missed opportunity to scrap family farm tax

By Carla Lockhart MP • October 29, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has described the autumn Budget as a missed opportunity for the Prime Minister and the Chancellor to rectify the wrongs of their predecessors, warning that farming families have once again been let down by the Labour Government.