The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) has co-opted councillor Julie Middleton as their new MLA for Foyle, following the resignation of her husband, Gary Middleton, last week.
Mrs Middleton was first elected to Derry City and Strabane District Council for the Faughan DEA in 2023.
She is replacing her husband in the Northern Ireland Assembly, who announced last week that he was stepping down due to ongoing ‘significant mental health challenges’.
Speaking at Stormont on Monday, the new Foyle MLA said: “It is a privilege to take up the role of MLA for Foyle and to serve the people of this constituency.”
“Having worked on behalf of local communities as a councillor, I am ready to build on that experience and represent the people of Foyle in the Assembly,” she added.
“As the sole unionist MLA in Foyle, I will unashamedly be standing up for those who want to make Northern Ireland work and challenging those who seek to rewrite our history and undermine Northern Ireland’s very existence.”
“I am ready to get to work and to be a strong voice for Foyle.”
DUP Leader Gavin Robinson MP said: “Julie Middleton brings proven experience, energy and a strong record of service to her new role as MLA for Foyle.
She has already demonstrated her ability to represent constituents effectively at council level and I have no doubt she will continue that work in the Assembly.
Julie is ready to hit the ground running and will be a strong and committed voice for the people of Foyle.
I wish her every success as she takes up this important role.”
