Kellie Armstrong Announces Departure from Stormont
An Alliance party politician has declared she will step down from her role at Stormont after serving more than ten years as an MLA.
Kellie Armstrong has represented the Strangford constituency in the Northern Ireland Assembly since 2016.
Before her tenure as an MLA, she served as a councillor on Ards Borough Council and later on Ards and North Down Borough Council from 2013 to 2016.
Armstrong confirmed she will not seek reelection in the upcoming assembly election scheduled for next May.
The 55-year-old stated that retirement had been a consideration for some time, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve her constituents.
"It has truly been an honour to serve the people of Strangford on behalf of Alliance."
She affirmed her commitment to continue her duties as an MLA alongside colleague Nick Mathison until her term concludes.
"I'll continue to give 100% for all those who need help in the meantime."
Armstrong also indicated she plans to remain engaged with the Alliance party and extended thanks to her colleagues and the local party association.
"I will continue to be involved with the party, giving thanks to all my colleagues, particularly the local Alliance elected representatives, and the local party association."
Reflections on Political Career
Expressing appreciation for her family, Armstrong highlighted their support through both rewarding and challenging moments in her political career.
"I also wish to thank my family for their love and backing.
They have helped me through the highs of being an elected representative, such as bringing the Integrated Education Bill, and the lows of being in the public eye, like receiving abuse and threats online. They have been a pillar of support throughout,"
she added.
