Merging three large organisations was never going to be easy and in many ways was a forced marriage. However, the nine strong Ulster Unionist team on Mid & East Antrim Borough Council is well-balanced, with three councillors from Ballymena, three from Carrickfergus, and three from Larne.

Our Ulster Unionist team is also a good mixture of youth and experience, education, industry, and business. We disagree at times, but, unlike other party groups, this means we can each reach our own decisions and vote accordingly - a positive reflection of the abilities within the group.

There are many pressures facing all Councils. In particular, Mid & East Antrim is facing the loss of rates income from two power stations and the closure of several major firms.

The Ulster Unionist group thinks beyond the next months or years. We are approaching council issues with a business mindset, not spending lavishly without accounting for income or return on investment... being mindful of ratepayers money and working towards a more efficient, functional organisation.

Our group responds to issues in the chamber or in the media with coherence and articulation. We submit questions and motions which address the issues that matter and highlight important concerns.

With great assets like Carrickfergus Castle, The Gobbins, and Slemish, we have a huge tourism potential, the benefits of which we must maximise not only for the residents of Mid & East Antrim, but for the wider economy and visitors from further afield.

In moving forward, I am confident that our hard work on the ground throughout our communities will see a strong Ulster Unionist team returned to Mid & East Antrim next May.  A group which will work tirelessly, but effectively, for those who have placed their trust, confidence, and votes in the Ulster Unionist team.