Causeway Coast and Glens Council to debate two sporting Freedom of Borough requests

A special meeting has been scheduled for Thursday, September 17, to discuss motions which have been proposed to confer the honour on Coleraine Football Club and Kilrea’s Martin O’Neill.

A motion proposed by UUP Cllr John Wisener reads: “We are writing to formally request that Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council confer the Freedom of the Borough upon Coleraine Football Club. This is in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the Borough, its sporting excellence and profound cultural and community impact, particularly in light of the club’s 100th anniversary in 2027.”

Seconded by his party colleagues Cllr Richard Holmes and Deputy Mayor Alderman Sandra Hunter, the motion continues: “Founded in 1927, Coleraine Football Club, has for nearly a century stood as one of Northern Ireland’s most respected and successful sporting institutions.

"Throughout its history, the club has represented the town and the wider Borough with distinction at regional, national and European levels, bringing positive recognition to Coleraine and inspiring pride across generations. Beyond the pitch, Coleraine FC has long been a cornerstone of community life within the Borough.

"It has played a vital role in promoting youth engagement, through grassroots programmes, encouraged inclusion, wellbeing, and cross community participation through sport. All this whilst supporting schools, charities, and community initiatives. The upcoming centenary year of 2027 represents an historic milestone, not just for Coleraine FC, but for the Borough itself.

"Conferring the Freedom of the Borough at this time would be a fitting and enduring tribute to a club that has faithfully served its community for 100 years, and continues to do so with integrity, ambition and respect and have rendered exceptional and sustained service to the area.

"Few organisations embody this principle more fully than Coleraine Football Club. Freedom of the Borough would not only honour the club’s remarkable past but would stand as a powerful symbol of the Borough’s appreciation for the role sport plays in shaping unity and pride within our community.”

KILREA’S MARTIN O’NEILL

Continuing the footballing theme, a notion of motion proposed by Sinn Fein councillor Sean Bateson reads: “That this Council recognises and celebrates the outstanding sporting achievements of Martin O'Neill, a native of Kilrea, whose distinguished career has brought immense pride and recognition to Kilrea and the wider Causeway Coast and Glens Borough.”

Seconded by party colleague Cllr Leanne Peacock, the motion continues: “Council notes his exceptional contribution to football both as a player and manager, including winning two European Cups with Nottingham Forest, captaining at the 1982 FIFA World Cup, and enjoying major managerial success with clubs including Leicester City, Celtic and Aston Villa.

"Council further notes his recent return to management with Celtic, culminating in the remarkable achievement of winning the league title at the age of 74, demonstrating his enduring leadership and contribution to the game.

"Accordingly, this Council calls on officers to explore appropriate ways to formally recognise Martin O’Neill’s contribution and legacy within the Borough, including the installation of a commemorative plaque or civic recognition in Kilrea; and/or the awarding of the Freedom of the Borough. Council further agrees to engage with local stakeholders, sporting organisations and the O’Neill family as part of this process.”