MLAs speak out after '˜Vote Leave' victory

Mrs Dobson said it was disappointing that both campaigns opted to focus on fear rather than facts and claimed the Brexit result had thrown up a series of challenges for both Governments, in London and Stormont.

“There is a long way to go yet,” said Mrs Dobson. “The result is clear and we must now work together, rather than apart in taking the path which is now before us. Major issues remain to be addressed to secure Northern Ireland’s position outside the European Union as part of a strengthened United Kingdom.

“We should be mindful of the longer term implications for families across Northern Ireland, both economically and politically.”

She said, “Uncertainty was always going to be a factor whatever the result – the measure of Northern Ireland is how the Executive rises to meet the challenges which we will all face and the impact which they will have in towns and villages across Northern Ireland.”

Meanwhile DUP Upper Bann MLA Carla Lockhart said she looks forward to working with the UK government and negotiating with them for the best interests of Northern Ireland.

She said, “I welcome the democratic vote of the people of the UK to leave the EU and particularly the 52.6% of people in Upper Bann.

“During the Assembly election in May the DUP made clear we believed the UK was better to leave. We received a mandate and returned as the largest party in NI. We now have the opportunity to reclaim our country, to ease the burden on the NHS and reinvest in our farming and fishing industries.

“Many believe the EU pumps money into the UK but it is money which we the taxpayer have been burdened with. We are restricted to EU trade agreements and pay tariffs on goods from outside the trade block.

“We do not oppose immigration but believe more control over it will benefit the UK economy.”