Northern Ireland

Edwin Poots 'among front runners' for co-option onto DUP South Belfast seat

MLA Christopher Stalford died suddenly at the age of 39. Picture: Arthur Allison
MLA Christopher Stalford died suddenly at the age of 39. Picture: Arthur Allison MLA Christopher Stalford died suddenly at the age of 39. Picture: Arthur Allison

THERE is growing speculation that former DUP leader Edwin Poots could take the seat occupied by the late MLA Christopher Stalford.

Mr Stalford died suddenly last month, leaving his South Belfast Assembly seat vacant.

The party had been expected to announce its choices for May's election last Monday, but it is understood the meeting to approve candidates is now scheduled for the weekend.

Under Stormont rules, the DUP has until Monday to co-opt a party member on to the Assembly in place of Mr Stalford.

Sources close to the DUP have said there is growing support for Mr Poots to be considered.

The Agriculture Minister was a close friend of Mr Stalford’s and was asked by the family to carry his coffin.

Mr Poots, an MLA for Lagan Valley, failed to be chosen as a candidate in South Down earlier this month, with party officers selecting local woman Diane Forsythe.

He has claimed he was "encouraged" to stand in South Down by the party leadership, but Jeffrey Donaldson has said it was "not my place to interfere in the selection process".

Mr Donaldson plans to stand in Lagan Valley in May as one of three DUP candidates and has said he wants to see Mr Poots alongside him on the ticket with former first minister Paul Givan.

It is speculated that if returned as an MLA in Lagan Valley and the DUP secure enough seats, Mr Donaldson would seek to be nominated first minister.

Meanwhile, also tipped among the front-runners for the South Belfast seat is DUP councillor Tracy Kelly, who managed Mr Stalford's constituency office.