Menu
11/01/2016
Arlene Foster Becomes New First Minister
DUP leader Arlene Foster has taken up the role as First Minister today, 11 January.
Peter Robinson announced his resignation at the first plenary session of the year at Stormont in Belfast.
Mrs Foster said: "I can think of no greater honour than to have the opportunity to serve my country and the people of Northern Ireland as their First Minister.
"I am truly humbled by the trust and confidence which has been placed in me and grateful for all those who have kept me in their prayers in recent days."
Mrs Foster has already served twice as acting First Minister.
Her replacement as Finance Minister is to be confirmed tomorrow, 12 January.
The Taoiseach, Mr Enda Kenny TD, congratulated Mrs Foster and wished her every success in her new role.
He looked forward to continuing to work with her to meet challenges and develop opportunities to benefit all communities across the island of Ireland.
The Taoiseach also commented that Arlene Foster has proved herself to be highly effective in her roles as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment and Minister for Finance and Personnel and is sure that she will continue to work hard for the people of Northern Ireland as she takes on the huge responsibility of the First Minister role.
Alliance Party Stephen Farry MLA said: "Having known Arlene for many years, starting from our time at Queen's University, I wish to take the opportunity to congratulate her on being confirmed as the new First Minister of Northern Ireland and wish her well in the role.
"Much has been made of the historic importance of today, as for the first time one of the top two positions in our government is held by a woman. It is even more important that this acts as a springboard to improving gender equality, encouraging greater participation and progression of women across Northern Ireland's business and civic life.
"As we move forward Alliance is committed to working closely with both the First and deputy First Minister in the Assembly and the Executive, especially when they are working in an inclusive way and articulate and deliver upon a common vision for this society."
(CD/JP)
Peter Robinson announced his resignation at the first plenary session of the year at Stormont in Belfast.
Mrs Foster said: "I can think of no greater honour than to have the opportunity to serve my country and the people of Northern Ireland as their First Minister.
"I am truly humbled by the trust and confidence which has been placed in me and grateful for all those who have kept me in their prayers in recent days."
Mrs Foster has already served twice as acting First Minister.
Her replacement as Finance Minister is to be confirmed tomorrow, 12 January.
The Taoiseach, Mr Enda Kenny TD, congratulated Mrs Foster and wished her every success in her new role.
He looked forward to continuing to work with her to meet challenges and develop opportunities to benefit all communities across the island of Ireland.
The Taoiseach also commented that Arlene Foster has proved herself to be highly effective in her roles as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment and Minister for Finance and Personnel and is sure that she will continue to work hard for the people of Northern Ireland as she takes on the huge responsibility of the First Minister role.
Alliance Party Stephen Farry MLA said: "Having known Arlene for many years, starting from our time at Queen's University, I wish to take the opportunity to congratulate her on being confirmed as the new First Minister of Northern Ireland and wish her well in the role.
"Much has been made of the historic importance of today, as for the first time one of the top two positions in our government is held by a woman. It is even more important that this acts as a springboard to improving gender equality, encouraging greater participation and progression of women across Northern Ireland's business and civic life.
"As we move forward Alliance is committed to working closely with both the First and deputy First Minister in the Assembly and the Executive, especially when they are working in an inclusive way and articulate and deliver upon a common vision for this society."
(CD/JP)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
27 March 2012
American Firm To Create 50 New Jobs
An American financial services firm is to create up to 50 new jobs in Belfast. Economy Minister Arlene Foster announced that Cowen International is to set up a technology research and development centre in the city. The centre will provide technology and support services to the Cowen Group and will be in charge of developing new technologies.
American Firm To Create 50 New Jobs
An American financial services firm is to create up to 50 new jobs in Belfast. Economy Minister Arlene Foster announced that Cowen International is to set up a technology research and development centre in the city. The centre will provide technology and support services to the Cowen Group and will be in charge of developing new technologies.
25 November 2020
Up To Three Households Allowed To Mix Over Christmas
Up to three households could be allowed to mix over the Christmas period, under a set of temporary arrangements to be agreed by the Executive. First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill have signalled temporary arrangements that will be put in place between 23 and 27 December.
Up To Three Households Allowed To Mix Over Christmas
Up to three households could be allowed to mix over the Christmas period, under a set of temporary arrangements to be agreed by the Executive. First Minister Arlene Foster and deputy First Minister Michelle O'Neill have signalled temporary arrangements that will be put in place between 23 and 27 December.
14 June 2017
DUP To Continue Talks With Conservatives
DUP leader Arlene Foster is to continue discussions with the Conservatives in London today, 14 June. Mrs Foster said she hoped an agreement would be reached today. Speaking after a meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday, 13 June, Mrs Foster said Brexit, counter-terrorism, taxation and the economy have been discussed.
DUP To Continue Talks With Conservatives
DUP leader Arlene Foster is to continue discussions with the Conservatives in London today, 14 June. Mrs Foster said she hoped an agreement would be reached today. Speaking after a meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May on Tuesday, 13 June, Mrs Foster said Brexit, counter-terrorism, taxation and the economy have been discussed.
05 March 2010
HBO Fantasy Epic For Northern Ireland
Fantasy filmmaking is on the way to Belfast. Northern Ireland Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Culture and Arts Minister, Nelson McCausland have confirmed, that the series, Game of Thrones will be filmed in Northern Ireland.
HBO Fantasy Epic For Northern Ireland
Fantasy filmmaking is on the way to Belfast. Northern Ireland Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster and Culture and Arts Minister, Nelson McCausland have confirmed, that the series, Game of Thrones will be filmed in Northern Ireland.
18 October 2010
Politicians Help 'Kick Hate Into Touch'
An innovative campaign, the 'Unite Against Hate' sporting weekend has been launched. Stormont First Minister Peter Robinson and his Junior Minister Gerry Kelly (pictured) joined forces to support the campaign which highlights all forms of hate crime and challenges people here to unite to stop it.
Politicians Help 'Kick Hate Into Touch'
An innovative campaign, the 'Unite Against Hate' sporting weekend has been launched. Stormont First Minister Peter Robinson and his Junior Minister Gerry Kelly (pictured) joined forces to support the campaign which highlights all forms of hate crime and challenges people here to unite to stop it.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
