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Good morning John

Over the past week, I have been greatly encouraged by the kind words and messages of support from so many of you. Thank you. In the face of calculated and cynical efforts by political opponents to distract and derail, your backing was greatly appreciated. I want you to know that I remain absolutely focused on delivering for our communities and standing up for the values we share.

On Thursday, I was pleased to announce the release of £750,000 in funding to purchase musical instruments. This is the second tranche of support released during my time as Minister, with record sums invested. 75 bands were successful in securing funding last time from right across Northern Ireland, and the same opportunity exists now. I would strongly encourage all eligible bands to apply to this fund. Your local DUP representatives stand ready to assist – please don’t hesitate to reach out for advice or support with the application process.

This funding is not just about instruments. It is about investing in culture, talent, and opportunity. Last week I had the pleasure of attending the Royal Landing in Carrickfergus, a very successful event that brings thousands of people to my East Antrim constituency to mark the arrival of King William III on his way to the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The atmosphere was fantastic, and with over 60 bands on parade, I was struck by the sheer depth of musical talent on display. Our bands continue to be a vital part of community life, especially for young people, offering a positive outlet and a strong sense of identity and pride.

The DUP want to support our young people to achieve their potential whether that is in music, sport, or in education. It is why I am investing in grassroots football through the NI Football Fund, improving facilities across Northern Ireland’s football clubs where so many young people and children play week after week.

It is also why in the Department of Education, Paul Givan is investing in the RAISE programme, to tackle educational underachievement across the community, including working class Protestant boys.

We are also working together to deliver the “Your School, Your Club” programme so that we can improve school sports facilities which will also benefit the local community. I have increased the budget for this from £500k last year to £3m this year and we will see benefits realised across Northern Ireland.

We will do more. I am currently finalising plans for a new Community Halls Scheme – another commitment the DUP made at election time. This initiative will support facilities like Orange halls, church halls and other venues run by voluntary and community groups. The scheme will help improve facilities and enhance the services they provide to people in towns, villages and rural areas across Northern Ireland.

And next week I will be launching a consultation on a once in a generation fund called Shaping Sustainable Places. This multi million-pound scheme, led by my department in conjunction with DAERA and DfI, will deliver regeneration projects through our local councils over the next ten years.

This is the kind of work that Stormont must be doing if it is to be worthwhile. Across every department we control, the DUP is working to honour our commitments and deliver positive change that will be of benefit to the people we serve.

Thank you once again for your continued support.

Yours sincerely,

Gordon Lyons MLA

DUP MLA for East Antrim


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