Politics

Arlene Foster formally steps down as member of Stormont Assembly

Former first minister’s Fermanagh and South Tyrone seat to be filled by DUP’s Deborah Erskine

Former Northern Ireland first minister Arlene Foster has formally stepped aside as a member of the Stormont Assembly. Photograph: Alan Betson

Thu Oct 7 2021 - 16:42

Former Northern Ireland first minister Arlene Foster has formally stepped aside as a member of the Stormont Assembly.

Mrs Foster said she did not intend to remain as an MLA for Fermanagh and South Tyrone in May when she announced her decision to resign as DUP leader following an internal party revolt.

Chief electoral officer for Northern Ireland Virginia McVea confirmed on Thursday that Fermanagh councillor and former party press officer Deborah Erskine would fill the vacancy arising from the resignation of Mrs Foster, who had served as an MLA since 2003. Ms Erskine is expected to sign in to Stormont later this week.

Since leaving politics earlier this year, Mrs Foster has been carving out a career in the media, including as a contributor on GB News and speaking out against abuse on social media.

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Her ousting as DUP leader sparked turbulence within the party, and her successor Edwin Poots was forced to resign within weeks before another leadership contest saw Sir Jeffrey Donaldson take the helm.

Mrs Foster tweeted her congratulations to MS Erskine on Thursday following a visit to a school in Dungannon that they both attended.

“Thanks to all who have supported me over 18 years of being your MLA — it’s been my huge privilege and btw I haven’t gone away you know!” – PA

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