Arlene Foster expands role at GB News: 'It’s vital that Northern Irish voices are heard'
By Ellie Iorizzo, PA Senior Entertainment Reporter
Arlene Foster is set to become a regular presenter on GB News alongside making documentaries for the broadcaster, it has been announced.
The former DUP leader and first minister of Northern Ireland (52) will step up from presenting one hour on Fridays to becoming a regular fixture during weekly programming.
Mrs Foster said she was delighted at the opportunity to introduce a more frequent Northern Irish perspective into all debates and news stories at GB News.
She said: “As recent events have shown, Northern Ireland is absolutely critical to the political landscape and future of the UK.
“It’s vital that Northern Irish voices are always heard, not just on stories about NI, but in every political discussion coming out of Westminster.”
According to the Guardian, GB News has faced increasing scrutiny in recent weeks over its mix of serious news with programmes that delve heavily into conspiracies about areas including Covid vaccines and a plot to create a world government.
It was also announced that Mrs Foster will lead coverage of the Twelfth of July parades in the North on the channel.
On Sunday, it said it would broadcast the event after the BBC dropped its long-running live coverage last year.
The broadcaster also confirmed Mrs Foster, who took her place in the UK House of Lords in November, would stand in for hosts including Michael Portillo when they are away.
Editorial director Michael Booker said: “Arlene’s wisdom and foresight about NI is unparalleled when it comes to any analysis of UK politics. It will be great to hear more from her throughout all our programming.”
Mrs Foster will also start making documentaries under the GB News Investigates brand, with her first programme looking at the role of faith in politics – which will be broadcast later this year.
The broadcaster said it is expanding politics with several new programmes and appointments including head of politics Christopher Hope, new Sunday presenter Camilla Tominey, and former UK cabinet minister Jacob Rees-Mogg.