Menu
19/08/2024
Doug Beattie Resigns As UUP Leader
Doug Beattie has announced his resignation as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP), citing "irreconcilable differences" with party officers.
Having been leader of the party since May 2021, it is understood that internal tensions have increased in recent weeks following the appointment of Colin Crawford as the party's new North Antrim MLA last month. He replaced Robin Swann when he was elected MP for South Antrim.
In a statement released by Mr Beattie, he said that is was "now clear that some believe the momentum needed to keep the Ulster Unionist Party moving in the right direction cannot come from me".
He continued: "Irreconcilable differences between myself and Party Officers combined with the inability to influence and shape the party going forward means that I can no longer remain the party leader."
The UUP will immediately begin the process of selecting a new leader.
Speaking after Mr Beattie's announcement, Sinn Féin Leader, Michelle O'Neill said: "I want to wish Doug Beattie and his family well as he announces today that he will step down as leader of the UUP.
"We have worked constructively since he became leader of his party, including during the restoration of the executive and institutions at the beginning of this year.
"I will continue this constructive approach with the new leader of the UUP when they take up post.
"Sinn Féin will continue to work together with all parties in the Executive and Assembly to ensure we deliver for all for our communities and our public services."
Having been leader of the party since May 2021, it is understood that internal tensions have increased in recent weeks following the appointment of Colin Crawford as the party's new North Antrim MLA last month. He replaced Robin Swann when he was elected MP for South Antrim.
In a statement released by Mr Beattie, he said that is was "now clear that some believe the momentum needed to keep the Ulster Unionist Party moving in the right direction cannot come from me".
The UUP will immediately begin the process of selecting a new leader.
Speaking after Mr Beattie's announcement, Sinn Féin Leader, Michelle O'Neill said: "I want to wish Doug Beattie and his family well as he announces today that he will step down as leader of the UUP.
"We have worked constructively since he became leader of his party, including during the restoration of the executive and institutions at the beginning of this year.
"I will continue this constructive approach with the new leader of the UUP when they take up post.
"Sinn Féin will continue to work together with all parties in the Executive and Assembly to ensure we deliver for all for our communities and our public services."
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
10 July 2024
New Funding Announced For Substance Abuse Project
Funding of £200,000 has been announced for a new project to help those experiencing substance use and/or mental health difficulties. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced the funding during a visit to ARC Fitness, a community based not-for-profit addiction recovery organisation based in L'Derry.
New Funding Announced For Substance Abuse Project
Funding of £200,000 has been announced for a new project to help those experiencing substance use and/or mental health difficulties. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt announced the funding during a visit to ARC Fitness, a community based not-for-profit addiction recovery organisation based in L'Derry.
13 September 2024
BCC Launches New Social Economy Incentive Fund
Belfast City Council has announced the launch of a new £90,000 fund to incentivise and boost Belfast-based social enterprises and co-operatives.
BCC Launches New Social Economy Incentive Fund
Belfast City Council has announced the launch of a new £90,000 fund to incentivise and boost Belfast-based social enterprises and co-operatives.
17 July 2024
DUP Welcomes Repeal Of NI Troubles Act 2023
The DUP has welcomed the Government's decision to repeal the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023. DUP Leader Gavin Robinson MP said that in a society where there is so much hurt, pain and grief as Northern Ireland's difficult and divisive legacy is addressed "it is important that the hope of justice remains".
DUP Welcomes Repeal Of NI Troubles Act 2023
The DUP has welcomed the Government's decision to repeal the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023. DUP Leader Gavin Robinson MP said that in a society where there is so much hurt, pain and grief as Northern Ireland's difficult and divisive legacy is addressed "it is important that the hope of justice remains".
11 July 2024
Northern Ireland Private Sector Ends Q2 In Strong Growth
The June report from the Ulster Bank Northern Ireland PMI Growth Tracker indicates that the Northern Ireland private sector concluded the second quarter of the year well within growth territory. New orders grew at the quickest rate since February 2022, leading to a significant increase in business activity.
Northern Ireland Private Sector Ends Q2 In Strong Growth
The June report from the Ulster Bank Northern Ireland PMI Growth Tracker indicates that the Northern Ireland private sector concluded the second quarter of the year well within growth territory. New orders grew at the quickest rate since February 2022, leading to a significant increase in business activity.
11 July 2024
DUP Welcomes Increase In Defence Spending
DUP Leader, Rt Hon Gavin Robinson MP, has welcomed the Prime Minister's decision to raise defence spending to 2.5% but urged for a clear timetable to demonstrate the new Government's dedication.
DUP Welcomes Increase In Defence Spending
DUP Leader, Rt Hon Gavin Robinson MP, has welcomed the Prime Minister's decision to raise defence spending to 2.5% but urged for a clear timetable to demonstrate the new Government's dedication.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:This evening will be dry. Then it will stay dry overnight with long clear periods. Some patches of mist and fog may form later in the night. Minimum temperature 11 °C.
