I should like to announce to the Assembly that further to the resignation of Ms Patricia Lewsley as a Member for the Lagan Valley constituency, I wrote to the Chief Electoral Officer, as required by the Northern Ireland Act 1998, to inform him of the vacancy. The Chief Electoral Officer has advised that Ms Marietta Farrell has been returned as a Member of the Assembly for the Lagan Valley constituency. I invite Ms Farrell to take her seat by signing the Roll of Membership.

The following Member signed the Roll of Membership: Marietta Farrell.

I am satisfied that the Member has signed the Roll and has confirmed her designation. Ms Marietta Farrell has now officially taken her seat.