SDLP hasthree femalecouncillors

John Dallat MLA is delighted for Maura Hickey, Stephanie Qugiley, and Roisan Loftus. INCR22-142MJ

Speaking on Saturday afternoon as Roisin Loftus pipped Sinn Fein’s Ciaran Archibald to the post in the Bann DEA, the SDLP MLA said that the election of Roisin Loftus, Maura Hickey in Causeway and Stephanie Quigley in Coleraine was a ‘brilliant day for women in politics’.

He added that their election would be a beacon of light in Coleraine.”

Mother-of-two Roisin was releaved to be handed a seat after a tight battle in the Bann DEA.

Results swayed several times before the Kilrea woman gained the final seat in Bann.

She first became a councillor back in 2011 when she was co-opted into John Dallat’s seat.

“No one could ever have predicted what would happen here today,” said Roisin at the count centre in Coleraine Leisure Centre.

“I will continue my work for the rural community.

“I enjoying my work with people on the ground - those that need help filling in forms or having benefits explained, and I will continue this in the new council.

“I just want to thank those who have supported me, and I will endeavour to repay them.”