WITH parties and individuals now jockeying for political position as Northern Ireland prepares to hold Assembly elections soon, there’s a lot to consider for an electorate keen to have their voices heard, but perhaps a little uncertain of where the would-be MLAs stand on a range of issues.

And so, over the coming weeks – starting today – we’ll be looking at the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA candidates running in our area, who were happy to talk to The Impartial Reporter’s Ciarán Flaherty, Jessica Campbell and Victoria Johnston about where they stand on several issues.

Topics

Whether on topics such as the current cost of living and energy crises, to the Northern Ireland Protocol, to ongoing health and education issues and other topics, the candidates across the political board have shared where they stand, and what their vision is for Northern Ireland and our area.

Featuring the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA candidates in no particular order, The Impartial Reporter asked each of them the following questions which arguably matter most, answered opposite, with the other candidates’ answers following in coming weeks.

Finally, no matter where you stand on these issues, and regardless of who you would like to support at the ballot box, please do cast your precious vote when the opportunity arises, and help to make sure that your voice is heard.

Question 1:

Tell voters a bit about yourself – why are you in politics/how long for?

Question 2:

From speaking to people in the constituency, what issues are affecting the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone?

Question 3:

What will be the main issues you will be working on, if elected?

Question 4:

How can Stormont work best for the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone?

Question 5:

What will you bring as an MLA if elected?

Question 6:

Why should people vote for you?

Answer 1: Since I can remember, I have always loved politics. After leaving university I worked as a journalist for three years.

In 2016, Arlene Foster brought me into the world of politics. I owe my political career to Arlene and I worked closely with her, in the party’s press office, as an Erne North Councillor and a constituency office worker.

Outside of politics, I love getting out in the countryside with my husband and our Labrador, Maisie, or cheering on the teams at a rugby match.

Answer 2: This election is hugely significant, both for Northern Ireland as a whole and for people in Fermanagh and South Tyrone.

The cost of living crisis is affecting everyone, whether it’s trying to fill their car, heat their home or to pay bills such as childcare or the weekly shopping.

The Northern Ireland Protocol is affecting everyone’s life also. Putting barriers to trade between Northern Ireland and our largest market in Great Britain is pushing up prices for consumers and reducing choice.

Health is another important issue, from access to GP services to ensuring care packages. As a member of the Health Committee in the Assembly, I’ve raised concerns on all of these and attempted to seek solutions.

Answer 3: Our party has a five-point plan in this election, and that includes to fix the NHS, grow the economy, to help working families, keep our schools world-class, and remove the NI Protocol.

It’s important this area has a strong, enthusiastic voice to champion Fermanagh and South Tyrone, as well as to raise the concerns of those living here. I want to provide a better quality of life for our residents.

Answer 4: Stormont does have the ability to pass laws which effect positive change. Often the things that unite politicians do not get reported on.

For me, the Autism Amendment Bill, which my DUP colleague Pam Cameron brought forward, is a prime example of cross-party support.

This piece of legislation will hopefully end the postcode lottery of services to those awaiting diagnosis and will put an onus on the Department of Health to ensure services are adequate.

If you want Northern Ireland to thrive, if you want a better life for your family, then you have to vote for someone that you know will raise matters on your behalf.

For my part, I have tried to do that to the best of my ability.

Answer 5: Having been a representative for just under six months, I have a real desire to see Northern Ireland move forward and I believe it’s important to not just work as an individual, but to be part of a strong team in the Assembly that can deliver.

I want more young people and women to become involved in politics and have their say.

We have come a long way, but there is still work to be done. I have been using my voice to seek solutions to our health crisis and I have a desire to see our healthcare system fixed.

Answer 6: Hopefully, people have been able to witness my desire to see Fermanagh and South Tyrone thrive.

I want to see Northern Ireland moving forward together, tackling waiting lists, helping working families with the cost of living and fixing our roads.

I want to continue working to make things better. We need to grapple with waiting lists, the soaring costs of energy and fix our roads.

I am focused on that, and I will always continue to do that, as someone, that lives and works in this place I love.