EDUCATION I have made my voice heard in Parliament in the ongoing debate about the future of our education system including the retention of grammar schools. In the constituency, I have been working closely with local schools and the education boards to deliver improved facilities for our children. Since my election as MP, I have helped secure funding for at least eight new schools in Lagan Valley, with further projects in the pipeline. In addition, several new nursery schools and pre-school units have been opened across the constituency to ensure that our younger children have the best start in life.

The DUP is strongly opposed to the recent cuts in educational funding which will result in the removal of vital services and affect pupils and teachers alike. We support a reduction in the cost of bureaucracy so that more money is available where it is needed most - in the classroom. I will continue to fight for additional investment in all schools and for the retention of Grammar Schools as a key component of our education system.