Council Elects New Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson at AGM

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has elected a new Chair and Deputy Chair at its Annual General Meeting on Monday 2 June 2025.

Councillor Philip Campbell (Sinn Féin) has been appointed Chairperson, with Councillor Geraldine Kearns (Sinn Féin) elected as Deputy Chairperson. Together, they take on their new roles with a shared commitment to championing community, driving regeneration and delivering progress for residents right across the district.

In his inaugural speech, Cllr Campbell said empowering young people would play an important part of his year ahead, “I’m deeply honoured to take on the role of Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. As someone raised in Downpatrick, this district isn’t just where I live—it’s who I am. I’m proud to call it home, proud to raise my family here and proud of the people who make it such a special place.

“With the support of my party colleagues and my incredible family, I step into this role with purpose. Over the next year, my focus will be on empowering our young people through community projects, sport and the arts so that every young person in our district feels seen, supported and inspired.

“We are stronger together and together we can build a district where our youth feel proud of where they come from and confident about where they’re going. I look forward to working with all Council members in the year ahead.”

Cllr Campbell also extended his congratulations to Cllr Pete Byrne and Cllr David Lee-Surginor, acknowledging their year of dedicated and respectful leadership as Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson.

Newly appointed Deputy Chairperson, Cllr Geraldine Kearns echoed the spirit of partnership to make Newry, Mourne and Down the best place to live, work, visit and invest in. She said, “I’m honoured to have been selected as Deputy Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. I’m committed to working with all councillors and Council staff to promote what’s best about our district and to stand up for workers, families and communities in every corner of the district.

“We’re entering a busy and exciting year, with progress expected on key regeneration projects in Newry and Downpatrick, the Narrow Water Bridge and major local facilities like Camlough Lake, play parks, leisure centres and more. Each of these will enhance the quality of life for our residents.

“I’m proud to serve such a vibrant, dynamic district and I look forward to meeting as many people and groups as possible offering my full support in the time ahead.”

Outgoing Chairperson, Cllr Pete Byrne looked back on a term defined by visibility, inclusion and connection. He expressed his gratitude to fellow councillors, Council officers and community partners for their support and welcomed Cllr Campbell and Cllr Kearns to their new roles.

He said, “As I conclude my term as Chairperson, I reflect with pride on a year dedicated to visibility, inclusion and connection. With the support of my husband, it’s been an honour to represent the LGBT community and ensure that every voice, especially those who feel unseen or unheard, is valued. You are not alone. Our district’s strength lies in its people where community, voluntary and charity groups work tirelessly to uplift the most vulnerable. Supporting them has been a privilege.

“As a businessman, I’ve worked to champion economic growth, promote our role in the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor and improve connectivity. I’ve also been proud to support tourism initiatives that celebrate our shared history and heritage, helping to drive reconciliation.

“One cause especially close to my heart has been supporting Cuan Mhuire and their life-saving work. I leave this role deeply grateful and inspired by the people of Newry, Mourne and Down.”

Outgoing Deputy Chairperson, Cllr David Lee-Surginor, also reflected on his term with pride and appreciation for the district’s grassroots strength and community resilience. “It’s been a year of unforgettable moments, meaningful encounters and renewed appreciation for the strength and spirit of our communities. Their unwavering dedication to making this district a better place is truly the heartbeat of Newry, Mourne and Down. Our local businesses are a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives here and it’s been a pleasure to see them grow, adapt and contribute so much to our local economy and identity.

“Highlights include meeting former President Mary McAleese, celebrating the achievements of our young people, leading Newry Pride with Pete as the first openly gay Chair and Deputy Chair on this island and taking part in Newry’s St Patrick’s Day Parade were all incredible honours. Ours is a district full of powerful stories. I’m proud to have played a small part in its journey over the past year.”

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

Active and Healthy Communities Committee

Chair – Councillor Callum Bowsie

Vice Chair – Councillor Mark Gibbons

Economy, Regeneration and Tourism Committee

Chair – Councillor David Lee-Surginor

Vice Chair – Councillor Killian Feehan

Sustainability and Environment Committee

Chair – Councillor Oonagh Magennis

Vice Chair – Councillor Martin Hearty

Planning Committee

Chair – Councillor Mickey Larkin

Vice Chair – Councillor Glyn Hanna

Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee

Chair – Councillor Oonagh Hanlon

Vice Chair – Councillor Declan McAteer