One MP quits DUP over Drumcree dispute

Carla Lockhart has resigned from the Democratic Unionist Party, a decision that marks a sharp internal split within the unionist bloc in Northern Ireland.

The Upper Bann Member of Parliament left the party on a point of principle following a dispute over how the DUP should react to First Minister Michelle O'Neill's role in recent protests. Lockhart argued that the leadership did not go far enough in its response to the Garvaghy Road incident, which blocked an Orange Order parade.

In a letter to her colleagues, Lockhart described forcing O'Neill from office as the only credible option. She stated that any graduated response would insult those who had trusted the party to enforce the rule of law. The MP now sits in the House of Commons as an independent unionist, a move she described as stepping out of her comfort zone to inspire others in the unionist community.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson said he was very sorry that Lockhart had quit the party. Robinson maintained that the DUP firmly believes O'Neill should face the consequences of her actions rather than the wider population of Northern Ireland. He noted that the devolved government continues to need a functioning structure and a budget, with important discussions expected to continue with the UK secretary of state this week.

Several senior Sinn Féin figures, including O'Neill, were interviewed by police regarding their involvement in the Garvaghy Road protests. O'Neill, who is also the vice-president of Sinn Féin, defended the party's involvement by saying it was the right thing to do and that they were standing with the residents. In response to the fallout, the DUP announced it would block official engagements involving O'Neill.

The political shakeup extends beyond the national level. Clement Cuthbertson, a DUP councillor for Dungannon in Mid Ulster District Council, also quit the party this week. Cuthbertson, who had been a DUP member for 30 years, will continue his elected role on the council as an independent unionist.

Lockhart has not yet decided whether to join another party, though TUV leader Jim Allister said she would be welcome. She confirmed she will continue as an independent for now. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly warned that unionism is weakened by infighting and reiterated the DUP's call for unionist cooperation.