Edwin Poots launches DUP leadership bid saying he wants to 'rebuild, revitalise, reinvigorate and revive' for next 100 years

Speaking this afternoon the Lagan Valley MLA said: "I love this country and its people and I look forward to engaging with party colleagues in the days ahead."

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The Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs who also served as the Minister of Health and is one of the DUP's most experienced politicians at Stormont is 7/4 favourite to assume the leadership of the party after May 28 when Mrs. Foster is due to step down.

Mr. Poots thanked Mrs. Foster for her service and dedication to the DUP over the past 20 years.

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"I'm a proud Northern Ireland man," he said. "I loves its people and its place and it faces many challenging times. It's with that in mind I'm putting my name forward for the leadership of the DUP. I look forward to the engagement and the debate with colleagues and the wider public in this contest."

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He mentioned the centenary of the foundation of the Northern Ireland state.

"I wish to see us rebuild, revitalise, reinvigorate and revive for the next 100 years," he said.

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