George Robinson “honoured and humbled” by MBE

When news of Mr Robinson’s recognition in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list broke this week, the veteran Limavady politician said: ““I have never sought Honours for what I do as an elected representative; my goal has always been to help others. Therefore the news at the weekend was one of the most humbling but pleasant shocks I have ever had.

“I worked at Shackleton MOD Base for 42years during some of the most difficult days of the troubles and have been involved in local politics for over 30 years. I have been privileged to serve on Limavady Borough Council, including a term as Mayor, and for 11 years as an MLA for East Londonderry.

“It is very humbling that people in the East Londonderry community have recommended me for an Honour in recognition of that service.

“I would like to thank the many people who have contacted me via social media, telephone or called at my home to congratulate me.

“It is a pleasure for me to be able to share this honour with my family, party colleagues, the electorate of East Londonderry including my home town of Limavady.

“After all these years I do not intend to change, I will still be George if people require my help or assistance in any way .”

Mr Robinson’s son, Alan, is also a politician and member of the Democratic Unionist Party. The former Mayor of Limavady paid tribute to his father George’s long record of public service and said the Robinson family were “thrilled” by the news.

He said: “Having seen at first hand his selfless efforts, his compassion and his yearning to see communities lifted off their knees, as a family we’re so very pleased that Georges tireless work over 30 years has been rewarded in such a spectacular way for a role that i know he cares a great deal for.

“To have put so much effort in to this hugely demanding role, finding time to help so many in the community while working full time, being Mayor, raising two children, having a very serious heart attack and a subsequent double heart bypass in between is admirable.’

“There is a very special day ahead at the Palace for George and our family, one that will be an occasion to savour forever, but knowing my Father, the award will be accepted with a humble smile, not for himself, but for his entire family, his friends, colleagues and the local community. Because quite simply, that’s just his nature.”