Sinn Féin Councillor Mary O’Dowd speaks of 'privilege' to give back to the community as Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon's new Lord Mayor
Sinn Féin Councillor Mary O’Dowd, the new Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, has described her appointment as “an incredible honour”.
Cllr O’Dowd was formally installed at the council’s annual meeting on Monday evening, with DUP Alderman Lavelle McIlwrath appointed Deputy Lord Mayor.
Elected to represent the Lurgan District Electoral Area in May 2023, Cllr O’Dowd thanked her party colleagues for entrusting her with the highest civic office so early in her political career.
In her inaugural address, she set out her ambition to lead an inclusive and successful council that puts every citizen at its heart and champions fairness, opportunity, and progress for all.
"For me, the prestigious role of First Citizen is about representing and delivering for every community across our borough, no matter their background. I want people to feel that their voices matter, that they are listened to, and that this council is delivering in their best interests every day,” she said.
Cllr O’Dowd paid tribute to her family, acknowledging their support throughout her journey into local politics and the vital role they continue to play as she embarks on a busy and productive year ahead.
She continued: “Public service is never undertaken alone. It is only possible with the support and encouragement of those around you. I would like to thank my husband and our three children for their constant support and belief in me.”
Speaking warmly about her local community, she said: “I am proud to call Lurgan my home and it is a real privilege to give back to the community I am a part of.”
Cllr O’Dowd has already gained considerable experience in local government, having served on key committees including Governance, Resources and Strategy and Environmental Services. She has also held the role of vice-chair of the Planning and Regulatory Services Committee and represents the council on the Northern Ireland Housing Council.
Cllr O’Dowd has named two charities she will support during her term of office.
"I am passionate about supporting PIPS Hope and Support, helping to encourage open conversations, reduce stigma and ensure people feel supported and able to seek help when they need it,” she said.
"I have also chosen to support Parkinson’s UK, which is deeply personal to me as my mum lives with the condition, strengthening my commitment to raising awareness, understanding and support for those affected.”
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Ald McIlwrath was elected to represent the Portadown District Electoral Area in 2019. He previously served on Armagh City and District Council, having been co-opted in December 2013, a role he held until June 2015.
Alongside his council duties, he works part-time as a political assistant to MLAs Gareth Wilson and Jonathan Buckley.
A strong advocate for community development, Ald McIlwrath has been involved in delivering projects including new play parks, enhanced sports facilities and helping to secure funding support for local organisations.
He currently serves as the council’s Veterans Champion and remains actively involved in supporting vulnerable individuals.
Over the past six years, he has raised more than £15,000 for charity through an annual Christmas sit-out in Portadown. During his term, he will raise funds for the Lynsey Courtney Foundation – a charity established to support research at Queen’s University Belfast aimed at reducing the number of women diagnosed with cervical cancer in Northern Ireland.