NORTHERN Ireland First Minister Arlene Foster has been appointed to the Privy Council.
The Council's historic role was to advise monarchs in carrying out their duties. It obtains formal approval for measures already ordered by ministers.
It is also the court of final appeal for the UK's overseas territories and crown dependencies.
DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds said: "Today's appointment is a testament to the fact that Arlene, as our First Minister and party leader, is held in high esteem not only in Northern Ireland but throughout the United Kingdom.
"It is right and proper that the First Minister of Northern Ireland is a member of the Privy Council, alongside her counterparts in Wales and Scotland.
"Arlene Foster is recognised as the undisputed leader of unionism in Northern Ireland following the Assembly election in May and today's elevation again highlights the fact she is recognised throughout the UK as the leader of our province."
