O'Dowd bids farewell to council

The Sinn Fein man has resigned from Craigavon Borough Council to concentrate on his work in the Assembly.

"I would like to thank the chief executive, the directors and the staff," he said.

"The support over the last 13 years from all the officers across the council has been of a respectful manner.

"I would like to thank the Sinn Fein group on the council for their support over the years.

"Going to and from the Assembly has meant that I have ignored my council duties and I appreciate their support

"I would wish everybody well."

The Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray said Mr O'Dowd had played a 'big role' at the civic centre.

He added: "Councillor O'Dowd joined the council four years before I did and there have been times when I have not always agreed with him but I wish him well."

Ulster Unionist group leader, Kenneth Twyble also added his voice to the well wishers.

"He has always articulated his views even though we may not have agreed and we would wish him well for the future."

Meanwhile Alderman Sydney Anderson was congratulated on his elevation to the Assembly to replace David Simpson.

Mr Anderson said it was an 'honour and a privilege' to be asked, while fellow DUP colleagues Stephen Moutray and Alan Carson congratulated the former Ulster Unionist.