Party Leader Arlene Foster speaking this afternoon from her constituency
Reflecting on events this week, Party Leader Arlene Foster said that tough decisions had to be taken in relation to restrictions. The "decisions that I would rather we didn't have to take" included imposing restrictions across Londonderry & Strabane following an increase in cases there this week.
She recognised the impact restrictions would have on local businesses and the need for support. However, the imposition of stricter 'lockdown' across Northern Ireland would require support from the Government at a UK-wide level.
Earlier in the week the First Minister also welcomed HRH Prince Charles and HRH the Duchess of Cornwall to Northern Ireland.
Whilst updating Prince Charles on issues within Northern Ireland she was joined by the Party Deputy Leader Lord Dodds.
Also this week
Paul Givan MLA concludes the DUP-proposed debate on "Helen's Law" within the Assembly this week.
DUP MLAs Alex Easton and Paul Givan brought a debate to the Assembly calling for legislation to ensure murderers are not eligible for release if they refuse to reveal the location of their victim's remains.
DAERA Minister Edwin Poots announced £645,000 investment for environmental projects. He also launched a £550k scheme to boost rural tourism.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds set out her vision for the energy sector, including an ambitious new renewable energy target for Northern Ireland.
Mid Ulster MLA Keith Buchanan highlighted figures which show that no parking tickets have been issued in Coalisland for over a decade.
Mervyn Storey MLA confirmed that DUP members would table a motion to exclude Gerry Kelly from the Policing Board if he fails to reaffirm commitment to the rule of law.
DAERA Minister Edwin Poots announced a new surveillance protocol for Brucellosis.
East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell said that new Covid restrictions must be clearly explained by the Health Minister and understood by the public or they risk becoming meaningless.
Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley encouraged local clubs to apply to the Sports Hardship Fund.
Economy Minister Diane Dodds welcomed publication of new guidance for close contact services. On Friday she also joined Foyle MLA Gary Middleton in discussions with local businesses impacted by restrictions in the area.
East Londonderry MP Gregory Campbell said that whilst there was a continued focus on the actions of soldiers on 'Bloody Sunday' all other aspects of what happened seem to be ignored.
