The Democratic Unionist Party have elected Gavin Robinson MP as the new Deputy Leader of their party. He replaces Paula Bradley who has stepped down from the role.
This follows a ballot that took place on 9th June 2023, of the DUP’s assembly members and MPs.
The vote also confirmed Sir Jeffrey Donaldson’s position as Leader of the party.
Gavin Robinson was running against Jonathan Buckley MLA – there were only two candidates for the position of Deputy Leader.
Following the ballot, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said the following:
“It has been an honour to serve as not only the DUP’s leader but also the leader of unionism. I thank colleagues for their renewal of my mandate to serve.
I want to thank Paula Bradley for her service as Deputy Leader and Party Officer. Paula was returned to Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council at the recent local government election and she will continue to serve her constituents as well as remaining active within our ranks.
When first elected leader in July 2021 I said that my focus would be the restoration of Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom. That remains my focus. Aligned to this objective is the coalescing of pro-union people around the DUP’s message.
The way forward for unionism must mean less hunting for heretics and more encouragement for converts. We remain focused on delivering on our plan for Northern Ireland and promoting the Pro-Union message. Across the Pro-Union community, it remains my view that there is more that unites us than divides us.”
Leader of the DUP, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson
The newly elected Deputy Leader said:
“I am honoured that I have been elected to serve as Deputy Leader. I look forward to continuing to work with colleagues at every level within the party as we seek to deliver on our election commitments.
A new generation of unionists are stepping forward to serve at every level within our party and in service to Northern Ireland. We all share the desire to play our part to help shape Northern Ireland into an even better place to live and work.
I am excited that the DUP’s membership is growing as more and more people step forward to play their part in their local areas.
I look forward to visiting every part of the country and playing my part in building and promoting the Pro-Union cause as well as working to deliver on our plan for Northern Ireland.”
Deputy Leader of the DUP, Gavin Robinson MP
