May Steele facts for kids

May Steele (1936/1937 – 8 January 2020) was an important politician from Northern Ireland. She was a member of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP). She served as the party's President and was also a member of the Northern Ireland Forum. She passed away on January 8, 2020, at the age of 83.

May Steele's Life in Politics

May Steele lived in Larne, a town in Northern Ireland. She joined the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) in the 1950s. She became very involved in politics in County Antrim.

In 1990, May Steele was made a Justice of the Peace (JP) for County Antrim. This role means she could help with legal matters.

Becoming a Forum Member

May Steele tried to get elected to the Larne Borough Council in 1993 and 1997, but she was not successful.

However, she was elected to the Northern Ireland Forum for East Antrim in 1996. The Forum was a group that discussed the future of Northern Ireland. She lost her seat in the next election in 1998.

Even though she was known for her strong political views, she supported the Good Friday Agreement. This agreement was a big step towards peace in Northern Ireland.

Leading Roles and Recognition

May Steele spent a lot of her time working with the Ulster Women's Unionist Council. She became the leader, or Chairman, of this important organization.

In 2000, she received the MBE award. This award, called the Member of the Order of the British Empire, is given to people who have done great things for their country. She received it for her work in politics and public service.

In 2016, the leader of the UUP, Mike Nesbitt, made May Steele the honorary president of the party. This was a special title that recognized her long service and dedication.

May Steele passed away on January 8, 2020, at the age of 83.