Armstrong looking forward to tackling Communities portfolio
Alliance Strangford MLA Kellie Armstrong has said she is looking forward to tackling her new portfolio in the NI Assembly of Communities, after the party reshuffled its spokespersons.
Ms Armstrong said while it was a “huge” brief, she was delighted to be taking on the role, with a particular view to issues in her constituency. She will sit on the Assembly Communities Committee, as its Deputy Chair.
She added: “Communities is a huge brief, with issues affecting people right across Northern Ireland – from eradicating poverty to improving housing conditions and availability, and creating cross-Departmental strategies to build inclusivity in our diverse society.
“However, I am also looking forward to addressing issues in Strangford as well. Key to that will be concentrating on the equality of housing stock available, to alleviate pressures in Newtownards and Ballynahinch, as well as the lack of affordable housing options in rural areas, including Portaferry, Portavogie, Killinchy and Ballygowan.
“In addition, I will be pushing for investment in historic buildings and monuments, protecting places like the listed Kircubbin Harbour, and review the red tape delaying registration of community organisations to register with the Charity Commission, as many are currently unavailable to access funding to provide necessary support across Strangford.
“This is a big job but I am up for the role and looking forward to providing an effective voice for people in my new role.”
