The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland confirmed Julie Middleton as the new Democratic Unionist Party assembly member for Foyle. She replaces her husband Gary Middleton, who resigned last week to address mental health challenges. Chief Electoral Officer David Marshall formally declared her return to the Northern Ireland Assembly on Monday.

Gary Middleton served as MLA for Foyle since 2015. He stated that recent mental ill-health limited his ability to represent constituents. He noted receiving treatment along with family and friend support.

Julie Middleton has been a councillor since 2023 in the Faughan district of Derry City and Strabane District Council. She spoke at Stormont on Monday about taking up the role as the first female unionist MLA for the constituency.

She said she was born in the area and worked there throughout her life. She described the family circumstances as difficult but affirmed her readiness to serve independently.

Julie Middleton identified priorities including deprivation, investment needs, and mental health in Foyle. She mentioned her experience with young people and special educational needs.

She reported that Gary Middleton is under NHS care, not doing well, and focused on rest and recovery. She called for more mental health discussion and interventions across workplaces.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson stated Julie Middleton has a proven track record and will represent unionism in Foyle.