You're serious too...

For the first time ever, there could be three nationalist, pro-Independence First Ministers across these islands. Historic change is happening. The demand for independence is growing.

Turning Up, Standing Up and Representing for EVERYONE in Northern Ireland as YOUR deputy First Minister - an equal and joint role, legally and constitutionally. When some are routinely absent, just AWOL, or continuously focused on dismantling and narrow political agendas, I along with your DUP Ministers and team turn up, stand up and champion Northern Ireland. Consistently, strongly and unapologetically pro Northern Ireland. When others talk, I show by action and by my presence. Should that be at the highest levels politically, for our important investments, announcements, and issues. Advocating for our businesses, sectors, arts and sport. Championing Northern Ireland. Turning up matters. Standing up for Northern Ireland matters. Speaking up for our sectors, our sports, for investment opportunities - it matters. I count it as a huge honour and responsibility to serve as your deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland. I will never take that for granted or shy away from doing all I can. Let us be absolutely clear - I do so in a co-equal role. This is legally and constitutionally clear, as inconvenient as it may be to some. When Michelle O'Neill was deputy First Minister, she and her party referred to her as the Joint First Minister. Something they now seek to ignore for political convenience. I have never focussed on titles but on the job I am there to do - but I will not allow others to diminish the constitutional realities nor the role. The message of the elections across Great Britain is actually one about people demanding delivery. While DUP Ministers have been pushing ahead with ambition and drive, actually getting things done, others seek to spin and blame others for their failings. When some nationalists across the UK seek to unite to pull apart the Union, seeking huge disruptive and destructive constitutional change - what the people actually want is strong leadership that improves lives. Look at the votes - there is no mandate for nationalist independence. The big message was one of getting on with the work,, common sense politics and successes for the people we serve, not spin. So let's get on with it - driving down those health waiting lists, public service reform and improvements, growing the economy in Northern Ireland (not losing jobs through boycotts and political showboating). I believe in strong, passionate and positive representation. I am determined - the DUP team is determined 💪