Foster thanks supporters after turbulent week Top Story May 2, 2021 BELFAST: Arlene Foster has thanked the hundreds of people who contacted her with “generous messages” after she announced she will step down as DUP leader later this month. The outgoing leader posted on social media about the messages and gifts she has received in recent days. It has been a turbulent week for the Stormont First Minister, who resigned a day after party colleagues moved against her by signing a letter of no confidence in her leadership. Mrs Foster posted a picture of bunches of flowers she received following her announcement on Wednesday. She tweeted: “Thank you to the hundreds who have been in touch with such generous messages and a special mention to those who sent these beautiful gifts.