The Ulster Unionist Party’s (UUP) new deputy leader, Diana Armstrong, is set to spearhead an initiative aimed at increasing female membership within the party. Armstrong, who was confirmed in the role on Saturday, is currently the UUP’s only female MLA.
Speaking about her new position, the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA said she was working for the women who came before her and urged more women to step forward. “There are many women without a seat in Stormont, without a seat in local government, and I want those women to step forward and be part of this next chapter,” she stated.
The initiative will include a new policy to attract more female members and leverage the qualities women bring to decision-making. New UUP leader Jon Burrows said Armstrong would lead a group engaging with women on how to better support them in politics, addressing practical barriers such as childcare and caring responsibilities.
Burrows highlighted that both he and Armstrong are relatively new MLAs, demonstrating opportunity within the party. “We are open to fresh talent and fresh thinking,” he said, adding that increasing the number of women and young people is a strategic objective.
Armstrong emphasised that there is a real appetite among female party members for recognition. “I want to send a signal that we are listening, we value what women can bring to the party,” she said.
