My priorities

EDUCATION & HEALTH SERVICE…

I am proud of the fact that the Ulster Unionist Party brought the NHS to Northern Ireland. As the UUP Health Spokesman, I am committed to our public services.
Excellent local health services and schools are the cornerstones of our community - improving health and well-being, as well as increasing educational opportunities.

AGRICULTURE & FISHING

I am devoted to raising those "on the ground" issues that affect our farming and rural communities as a whole. As a farmer myself, I understand the worries and uncertainties that face our industry in today's society.

The Agri-Food community forms not just a major part of the commercial backbone of South Down, but also of this entire Province. We must not allow the fight to save this important industry to become a political football. As the livelihoods of many thousands of people in the farming industry are at risk right across the Province, it is not only those directly involved in farming and fishing who stand to lose if the Ulster Agricultural Industry goes under financially!

ENVIRONMENT

South Down's diverse and beautiful natural environment is one of our most precious assets. It should be preserved and passed on to future generations.
Good stewardship of the natural environment needs a partnership between the Assembly, local government, local communities as well as the business and agricultural sectors, resulting in a clean and healthy environment.
The pressing and urgent challenge of climate change does, of course, require international initiatives - but it also needs local action.

ECONOMY

I have a vision of a flourishing regional economy in Northern Ireland, and believe that devolved Government in Northern Ireland can act as a catalyst for economic renewal, with economic growth going hand in hand with social justice. By fostering a spirit of innovation and creating a culture of enterprise, we can build an economic future marked by opportunity, investment and growth.

COMMUNITY

I'm committed to building stronger, safer, fairer communities where all children can flourish, families prosper and the elderly live in dignity and security, free from fear - making society a better place for all of us.
I believe in quality of life and social justice built upon the firm foundations of opportunity, security, fairness and responsibility.