Councillor McKay steps down

Mr McKay will be replaced by Cloughmills man Cathal McLaughlin. Mr McLaughlin is a former Chairperson of Sinn Fin in North Antrim as well as being a member of the local GAA.

Mr McKay said: “I’ve been a Councillor in Ballymoney for five years and it has been an honour to represent constituents at the council in regard to a wide range of issues. I will of course continue to represent local people in my capacity as an Assembly member.

“My replacement on the council, Cathal McLaughlin, has been a dedicated political activist in the area for many years and I am sure that this hard work and commitment will be replicated in his new role as a Councillor.

“Legislation introduced earlier this year has enabled us to carry out this council co-option and reflects our party’s commitment to end dual Assembly-Council mandates. I will continue to work hard in my capacity as an Assembly member for North Antrim and in co-operation with the strong team the party has on Ballymoney Council."

Mr McLaughlin said: "It is an honour for me to be taking over such a role that was carried out so well by Daith McKay over the last five years and I wish him well on his departure from Ballymoney Council to continue with the success he has already achieved as an MLA, representing the people of North Antrim.

"I want to thank Sinn Fin in North Antrim for selecting me as Daith's replacement and hope that along with fellow Councillors Philip McGuigan and Anita Cavlan, we can continue the stirling work being carried out at present, for all the constituents in the Bann Valley area.

"I look forward to commencing my work on the council and facing the challenges that lie ahead. I will give my upmost attention to any issue brought forward to me by constituents in the area."