Debate contribution: First Minister: Unlawful Actions
Debate contribution by Mr Gordon Lyons on .
- MLA
- Mr Gordon Lyons
- Party at the time
- Democratic Unionist Party
- Date
- 29 September 2026
- Type
- Debate contribution
- Business
- Oral Answers to Questions
- Heading
- First Minister: Unlawful Actions
- Assembly identifier
- Official Report component 5761487
Read the official Assembly record
Text
Of course, I do. When I woke up this morning, I did not think, "Will I go into the Chamber to answer questions today?". I came here because it is my duty and responsibility. Sometimes, Members ask me questions that are irrational and irrelevant. Sometimes, the questions are silly. Sometimes, they are downright dopey — no offence, Mr McNulty; I do not mean to single anybody out. However, I come in here to answer questions, because that is what is required of me. If the people of Northern Ireland decide to elect representatives who want to ask questions, those representatives should have the right to do that. I make myself available to the House, because I am accountable to the scrutiny of the House. That does not apply to just the Minister for Communities or DUP Ministers; it applies to every Minister. That is why I am here today. We do not get to pick and choose — we do not get to decide — because the law is clear. I am required to be here today, and that is why I am here. Others are required to be here today, and they should be here as well.
198 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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