19/02/2002

Ulster Unionist Party reshuffles Stormont team

The Ulster Unionist Party's Stormont team has undergone a major reshuffle of its key ministerial posts.

Sam Foster, 70, who had been the Minister for the Department of Environment since the executive's inception in 1998 is being replaced by former junior minister Dermot Nesbitt. Mr Nesbitt was formerly attached to the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister.

The announcement was made by party leader and Northern Ireland First Minister David Trimble on Tuesday February 19.

While it was well known that Mr Foster was ready to step down from ministerial duties, a spokesman for the Ulster Unionist Party said Mr Foster intended to remain an active backbencher in the assembly.

Mr Nesbitt now vacates his junior ministerial post in the office of the first and deputy first ministers. This post will be taken over by UUP North Antrim assembly member James Leslie, who will now quit his post on the Policing Board. Mr Leslie's replacement on the Policing Board is yet to be determined.

The Speaker, Lord Alderdice announced Sir John Gorman, the UUP deputy speaker is standing down with UUP chief whip, Jim Wilson set to fill the post subject to the Assembly's approval.

(AMcE)

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