Lobbying

Lobbying your elected representative is simple and is a good way to let them know how you feel about issues affecting lesbians, bisexual women and our families.

In Northern Ireland there are three types of Elected representatives. Local Councilors (local councils), MLAs (Assembly) and MPs (Westminster).

While the Assembly remains inactive it is also useful to lobby N.I. Ministers ( British Government Representatives with responsibility for N. Ireland)

You can make your views known to your MP on campaigning issues by letter writing, telephone call, email or arranging to meet them.

Writing a letter or email.
Although it is best to go and see your elected representative, you may wish to write to them instead. Be brief and concise. Short and clearly typed letters that set out the main arguments are more likely to receive a response than those that contain demands or threats. Always ask for a reply. If you don't receive a reply, write again enclosing your original letter. Keep up the pressure - don't let them off the hook.

During a visit
You can use any visit as an opportunity to discuss the issues facing you. Be direct and precise in your discussions. If the candidates say things to offend you, or are opposed to supporting lesbian and gay equality, make a note of what is said.

After the visit
Regardless of how the meeting with your MP goes, it is good to follow up your visit with a letter thanking them for their time. In the letter, summarise the key points of your discussions.

To help us with our future lobbying and campaigning work, please send LASI a copy of the letter you send to your candidates and any responses you receive. Where relevant, we will post some of this information on our site.

• You can also lobby Political Parties on issues relating to their party policies.
• You can find out who your local councilors are by visiting your local council web site.
• You can find out who your MLA is by going here.
• You can find MPs by visiting the Parliament web site and entering your postcode.

Local Political Parties

click on the party name below to go to their web site

There are 26 local councils in Northern Ireland -

click on the council name below to go to their web site