First Minister joins Upper Bann MP to launch campaign

The Upper Bann DUP Association has unanimously selected David Simpson MP as their candidate to fight the Westminster election.

The First Minister and DUP Leader Peter Robinson MLA was the guest speaker at Mr Simpson’s campaign launch in Banbridge Old Town Hall and was joined by a broad coalition of supporters from across the constituency.

“I’m delighted to be at the launch of David’s campaign,” said Mr Robinson. “I’m particularly delighted to see so many different groups and interests represented and it’s testament to the work of David Simpson as your local Member of Parliament that such a coalition has assembled. Upper Bann knows it can depend on David Simpson to deliver. Next May’s Westminster election is potentially the most important for Northern Ireland in a generation. That’s why it’s vital that we send the best team possible to Parliament. David Simpson is the right choice for the DUP and the right choice for Upper Bann.After the next General Election there is a real possibility that the DUP will hold the balance of power at Westminster. The DUP prides itself on being the party of Northern Ireland. Every additional seat we hold will increase our chance to get the best deal for Northern Ireland.”

At the launch of his campaign, Mr Simpson said: “Since 2005 I have had the honour of being Upper Bann’s voice in the House of Commons. Besides representing the constituency in key debates, I have also promoted Upper Bann to help attract jobs and investment to the area.I have a proud record of achievement, focusing mainly on economic regeneration, youth unemployment, and improving community facilities.

“I played a key role in the delivery of the new ASDA store at Edenderry in Portadown and the new Tesco Store at the Outlet in Banbridge. With these two investments have come 650 new jobs. I have worked with both Councils to deliver £3.2 million of investment in community facilities in Portadown and Brownstown as well as the new community hub in Gilford.

“I have also been instrumental in lobbying for and achieving, alongside the Health Minister, the new Banbridge Health Centre.I am privileged at my campaign launch to have such a broad coalition of people who want to see me reelected as their MP. This is reflective of my commitment to representing their needs and the unrivalled constituency service we provide. We have full time advice centres, complemented by part-time surgeries, right across the constituency helping thousands of people every year.This is one of the most critical General Elections in my lifetime. Northern Ireland’s influence could be absolutely crucial in the next parliament. This is not a time for a novice. As an elected representative for Upper Bann for over ten years, when people vote for me they know my track record of delivery and understanding of the key issues in the area. I will be going to Westminster to get the best deal for Northern Ireland and Upper Bann.”