Ahead of his ratification as Ulster Unionist Party Leader this Saturday, Jon Burrows MLA has announced his senior leadership team at the Northern Ireland Assembly. The Leader‑Elect has reaffirmed the Ulster Unionist Party’s commitment to remaining in the Northern Ireland Executive, confirming that Mike Nesbitt MLA will continue in his role as Health Minister. In addition, Diana Armstrong MLA will serve as the Party’s Chief Whip alongside her responsibilities as Deputy Leader.

Leader Elect Jon Burrows MLA said:

“The Ulster Unionist Party is rooted in a deep sense of duty, selflessness, and service to the people of Northern Ireland. We remain steadfast in our commitment to doing what is right for them. That is why today I am reaffirming our commitment to remaining in the Northern Ireland Executive, with Mike Nesbitt MLA continuing as Health Minister.

“Mike has shown visible and effective leadership in guiding the Health Service through one of its most challenging periods, delivering pay awards for health workers, finding £300 million in savings and driving down waiting lists. As we enter the third year since the restoration of the Executive, our renewed focus is on making the Health Service deliver where it matters. Long term transformation is now under way. Prioritising prevention and early intervention will improve outcomes and secure long term sustainability. This means putting a particular emphasis on keeping healthy people healthy, especially our children.

“I am also pleased that Diana Armstrong MLA will take on the role of Party Chief Whip in addition to her role as Deputy Leader. Diana is a trusted and valued colleague within the Party and across the wider pro Union community. Together, we will provide the united and dynamic leadership our Party needs, focused on strengthening the Union, fixing public services and driving change in how politics is delivered here”.