The Lagan Valley MLA thanked the outgoing chair, Mike Nesbitt MLA, for his work in encouraging dialogue on the role of sports and exercise for the betterment of health and recreation.

APGs provide a forum for MLAs to meet representatives of organisations and individuals to explore areas of common interest.

Mr Honeyford said: “I’d like to express the appreciation of all members from the Sport APG for the hard work and dedication shown by Mike in the interests of sports and recreation in Northern Ireland over the past number of years. 

“It’s been a pleasure to work with Mike as he kept the work of the APG productive and focussed during the long period when the Assembly wasn’t functioning.

“This important APG enables MLAs from across the House to develop close working relationships with the wider sporting community, from Sport NI and the Governing bodies, so that they are informed on matters affecting Sport, and also recognise the value of sport and physical recreation as a tool to better mental and physical health. Sport importantly helps bring change in our community and helps to unite people together. APGs can also be influential in the development of future legislation.

“As the new chairperson, I hope to build on the work of the APG with a particular emphasis on the development of all aspects of grassroots sports.”