Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council elects youngest ever Mayor

Having joined the Alliance Party in 2020, Kurtis was elected to represent Downshire East in 2023. Now, at the age of 27, he is the youngest ever Mayor to take on the role of First Citizen of Lisburn and Castlereagh.

Speaking at the Annual Meeting of Council, Mayor Dickson said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Mayor. I recognise that this is a huge responsibility and I am committed to, and excited about serving the people of Lisburn and Castlereagh over the next 12 months.

“I know that many people share my passion for the environment which will be a central theme during my year as Mayor.

"It is vital that we are all aware of our impact on the global and local environment and I look forward to engaging with local groups and volunteers who are committed to protecting the world around us.

“I will also be a tireless ambassador for young people. I aspire to see more youth participation in civic life and I will help make their voices heard.

“I would like to pay tribute to our outgoing Mayor, Andrew Gowan and thank him on behalf of the people of Lisburn and Castlereagh for so ably representing them over the last year, supported by Deputy Mayor, Cllr Gary McCleave."

Mayor Dickson has chosen Emerge Counselling Services as his Mayoral Charity.

He added: “Young people face so many challenges in modern society and I want to support them to speak up and have a say in their own future. I will focus on initiatives that improve the mental health and wellbeing of our young people and create an environment where their valuable contributions are welcomed and nurtured.

“Emerge Counselling Services are focused on suicide and self-harm prevention. The work they do is invaluable. We have never needed their services more.”

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Ryan Carlin added: “People want politics to work for them and their families. I look forward to being an ambassador for a modern Lisburn & Castlereagh and working with Mayor Dickson to be a voice for all.”​