Jon Burrows MLA pays tribute to predecessor and sets out vision for North Antrim in first Assembly speech

North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows

North Antrim’s newly selected MLA Jon Burrows has delivered his maiden speech in the Northern Ireland Assembly, setting out a vision focused on farming, housing, immigration, and education, while paying tribute to his predecessor.

Speaking on Monday 8 September 2025, the Ulster Unionist Party representative thanked colleagues for their warm welcome—while joking that some had previously “blocked on Twitter” despite offering handshakes in the Chamber.

Mr Burrows used the occasion to pay a heartfelt tribute to outgoing MLA Colin Crawford, describing him as “a rare person in politics” who placed people before personal advancement.

“My constituents told me that Colin had spent nights on the street when it was dark and dangerous. He had been in their homes at times when they had suffered real bereavement and crisis,” Mr Burrows said.

“He is not a man who is interested in climbing the greasy pole… he is interested in helping people.”

He confirmed that Mr Crawford would remain active in the constituency office, supporting services across North Antrim.

Celebrating North Antrim

Calling North Antrim “the most beautiful constituency in the United Kingdom,” Mr Burrows highlighted its global significance as home to the Giant’s Causeway and Gracehill, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO world heritage sites.

He also spoke of his personal connection to the area, recalling a decade spent in Ballymoney under threat from dissident republicans but refusing to be driven out.

Farming at the heart of the constituency

Mr Burrows described farmers as the “heartbeat of the constituency” and voiced concern over the pressures they face.

He warned that inheritance tax proposals pose an “existential threat” and must be tackled. He also pointed to the “armlock” farmers face between environmental responsibilities and making a sustainable living.

Tackling housing inequality

On social housing, Mr Burrows pledged action after visiting the Drumtara estate, where he compared conditions to a “third-world country.” He condemned lengthy delays in basic repairs and housing provision, calling for greater accountability and improved services.

Immigration and local pressures

The new MLA also addressed immigration, pledging to “stand by the lawful immigrants of North Antrim” while acknowledging the strains placed on housing, health, and education systems.

“I will always call out violence,” he said, but stressed the need for “honest conversations” about the pressures posed by asylum and illegal immigration. He gave particular thanks to Filipino nurses, noting his own family’s gratitude.

Support for education and teaching staff

Highlighting the difficulties faced by families awaiting statements of educational need and school places, Mr Burrows voiced support for improved education provision.

He backed a motion and amendment by fellow MLA Mr Gaston, calling for teaching assistants to be valued “not just in words but in their pay and conditions.”

A commitment to deliver

Concluding his speech, Mr Burrows said:

“I am absolutely honoured to represent North Antrim. It is a wonderful constituency, but it has a lot of problems. I am here to listen, to support, and to deliver for everyone who calls it home.”