Council Elects New Chair and Deputy Chair at Annual Meeting

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council elected a new Chair and Deputy Chair at its annual meeting on Monday 1 June 2026. 

Councillor Glyn Hanna (DUP) has been appointed Chairperson, with Councillor Doire Finn (SDLP) elected as Deputy Chairperson.

In his inaugural speech as Chairperson, Cllr Hanna said it was an honour to take up the role and he was “proud and humbled” to serve as the first Unionist Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council since its creation in 2015.

“I have lived and worked in the Mournes all my life, running my own business and valuing the importance of supporting local skills. My family has lived in this area for many generations, with a long connection to farming and fishing. That strong sense of place is what inspired me to stand for election to serve the people of the Mournes and the wider district,” he said.

“As a councillor I firmly believe that councillors should work together to ensure the Council delivers for the people of this district and provide the best services possible.”

Cllr Hanna continued, “During my time as Chairperson, I will do my utmost to promote and support businesses across our Council area and champion opportunities for growth and prosperity. I will continue to offer support for local healthcare facilities and services, while pursuing better roads and essential services for rural communities.

“Throughout my year in office, I am committed to recognising and respecting the diversity of our district, ensuring that everyone feels valued and represented. I will make a conscious effort to acknowledge and celebrate minority traditions, including Ulster Scots culture, as an important part of our shared heritage.  I am dedicated to carrying out the duties of Council Chairperson with integrity, fairness, and respect for every resident in our district.”

The new Chairperson has chosen two charities to support during his year in office, both of which are close to his heart and provide vital services in the community; they are Mourne Stimulus Day Centre, which supports adults with physical and learning disabilities, and Heartbeat NI, which supports children living with heart disease.

The new Deputy Chairperson Cllr Finn, looking forward to championing local communities, supporting the arts and cultural sector and showcasing the very best of Newry, Mourne and Down said, “It is an incredible honour to be nominated as Deputy Chairperson. I have always tried to use my voice to stand up for local people and for the issues that matter most to our communities. Whether that is supporting local businesses and community groups, promoting opportunities for young people or championing our arts and cultural sector, I have always believed politics should be about improving people’s everyday lives and helping our communities reach their full potential.”

She continued, “Our district has an incredible creative and community spirit. From local artists and musicians to volunteers and grassroots organisations, there are so many people giving their time and talent, working tirelessly to make this place better every day. I want to use my role to champion those people and ensure their contribution gets the recognition it deserves, and I’m determined to continue speaking up for young people and ensuring they feel supported and optimistic about building a future for themselves here at home. Too many people still feel they have to leave to build a career or afford a future and I want to keep pushing for investment, quality jobs and thriving communities where people can put down roots.”

Reflecting on his year in office, outgoing Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, said it had been the “experience of a lifetime” with one of the greatest privileges of the role recognising the contribution that young people make across the district. 

“It has been an honour to meet and work alongside them through the many events, projects and programmes delivered by our Council and partner organisations. A particular highlight was my Local Democracy Week initiative, a competitive programme that gave secondary and grammar schools the opportunity to draft and present a Council motion. 

Cllr Campbell said another highlight was the evolution of the Chairperson's Awards, explaining that by opening nominations to the public, his aim was to make them more inclusive and representative of the people of Newry, Mourne and Down, with the awards shining a spotlight on the many unsung heroes who dedicate their time, energy and talents to improving life in communities across the district.

Cllr Campbell paid tribute to all Council staff for the outstanding work they carry out across the district every day, “From environmental initiatives and ambitious capital investment and regeneration projects to the hugely important work being undertaken through the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls programme. Their commitment and professionalism continue to make a real difference to people's lives.”

Outgoing Deputy Chairperson, Cllr Geraldine Kearns, said it was her privilege to hold the position and represent the district.

“Serving in this role has been both a humbling and deeply rewarding experience, meeting and listening to concerns of residents, individuals or groups, or cutting ribbons of new community initiatives.  I have always strived to make Newry, Mourne and Down a better place to live and work,” said Cllr Kearns.

“I have met some wonderful groups and individuals which shows that our Council does reach out and respects and acknowledges the contribution made by them. It has been a sometimes-hectic schedule with three to four events each week, but it has been a learning curve for me also. Thanks also to Council staff who worked tirelessly helping me through the year and I wish the incoming Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson all the best for their term in office.”

Other business conducted at the meeting included the appointment of Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Council’s standing committees:

Active and Healthy Communities Committee
Chair – Councillor Tierna Howie
Vice Chair – Councillor Aidan Mathers

Economy, Regeneration and Tourism Committee
Chair – Councillor Killian Feehan
Vice Chair – Councillor Selina Murphy

Sustainability and Environment Committee
Chair – Councillor Mickey Ruane
Vice Chair – Councillor Terry Andrews

Planning Committee
Chair – Councillor Mickey Larkin
Vice Chair – Councillor Michael Rice

Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee
Chair – Councillor Callum Bowsie
Vice Chair – Councillor Oonagh Hanlon