SDLP stalwart steps down and is replaced by his daughter

The SDLP man announed his resignation at a Corporate Affairs meeting last week, after twenty years serving the Coleraine Central ward.

He will be replaced by his daughter Stephanie Quigley.

Gerry was first elected in 1997 and held his seat comfortably at four different elections.

Paying tribute to Gerry his former colleague John Dallat said: “I had the privilege of sitting alongside Gerry for 20 of the 33 years I spent on Coleraine Borough Council and I know he will be sadly missed. Never a walkover and always a gentleman, Gerry had no enemies and in the best tradition of SDLP politics he constantly stretched out the hand of friendship to his political opponents. I am delighted that Stephanie Quigley, Gerry’s daughter, has been selected to replace him. She is very experienced, enthusiastic and well informed about local affairs. I have no doubt Stephanie will add valuable support to our existing councillors Maura Hickey and Roisin Loftus as they prepare to meet the challenges of the new councils.”