Northern Ireland

Former Health Minister Robin Swann snatches South Antrim from DUP

The constituency has been a battle for the DUP and UUP

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UUP South Antrim Candidate Robin Swann arrives at Meadowbank Sports Arena, Magherafelt, during the count for the 2024 General Election. Picture date: Friday July 5, 2024. PA Photo. See PA story POLITICS Election Ulster. Photo credit should read: Niall Carson/PA Wire (Niall Carson/Niall Carson/PA Wire)

Former Health Minister Robin Swann snatched back South Antrim from DUP

The UUP have regained representation at Westminster after several years as former party leader Robin Swann won with 16,311 votes.

The seat has always been held by a unionist party, making it a key battleground between the DUP and UUP at this election.

Paul Girvan held the seat for the DUP since 2017 after unseating the UUP’s Danny Kinahan.

However, Mr Swann reclaimed the constituency by a margin of 7,512 votes with Mr Girvan receiving 8,799 overall.

The party has made the constituency a key target in this election with Mr Swann switching constituencies to run for Westminster.

Sinn Fein candidate Declan Kearney came third with 8,034 of the votes.