McCusker to take up council seat

The UUP man will replace Upper Bann MLA Jo-Anne Dobson, who announced her resignation shortly before Christmas.

Mrs Dobson had vowed to step down from her council seat when she was elected to the Assembly last May.

The final choice for the co-option was made by the party’s central executive last week, with three in the running - Mr McCusker, Portadown businessman Robert Oliver, and Lurgan hopeful Marc Woods.

Mr McCusker said his top priority will be “promoting the area and attracting investment”.

“I hope to bring a bit of youth to the council,” said Mr McCusker.

“There are already some young faces there, and I hope to add to that.

“I will be focused 100% in my position as councillor on improving the lot of hard-pressed communities in this Borough.”

Mr McCusker also said that he hopes to play a part in the “rebuilding process” of the UUP.

He said: “I was disappointed at the electoral results the party was getting, considering we were the party that brought peace to Northern Ireland.

“When I put myself forward for election, I wanted to play a part in the rebuilding process of the party.

“The Ulster Unionist Party has a track record of strong representation and getting things done in Upper Bann and I look forward to building on this.”

Jo-Anne Dobson said Mr McCusker would make a “fantastic” councillor.

She said: “I am delighted that Colin will be replacing me on Craigavon Council.

“I know he will be a great addition to the council team and will work hard for the people of Lurgan.

“Having worked with Colin during the 2011 election I know that he will make a fantastic councillor who will be committed to ensuring the people of Lurgan are getting the best possible representation.

“He is also a committed Ulster Unionist and I know that this is only the beginning of his political career.”