DUP MLA Elected To Lords

DUP L'Derry MLA William Hay has been appointed to the House of Lords.

First Minister and DUP leader Peter Robinson said: "I am delighted for William and congratulate him on this elevation to the House of Lords. I have known the Hay family since the formation of the DUP and William has been an excellent public representative for the people of Londonderry for over thirty years. William was the first ever DUP Councillor to serve as the Mayor of Londonderry. His leadership in the city is recognised right across the community.

"More recently, as Speaker of the Northern Ireland Assembly, William has been able to command respect across the House, in what can often be a testing debating chamber.

"With his commitment to public service and experience in public life, I know that William will be a tremendous asset as a DUP Peer. He will be joining a strong Democratic Unionist Parliamentary team and his presence will ensure the unionist voice from the City of Londonderry is amplified within the Houses of Parliament."

(IT/JP)