Downpatrick councillor takes over at helm of district council

Downpatrick councillor takes over at helm of district council

4 June 2025

DOWNPATRICK Sinn Fein councillor Philip Campbell is the district’s new first citizen.

He was confirmed as Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s new chairman at the local authority’s annual meeting on Monday night, succeeding the SDLP’s Pete Byrne.

The council’s new deputy chair is Newry Sinn Fein councillor Geraldine Kearns with the duo taking on their new roles with a shared commitment to championing community, driving regeneration and delivering progress for residents right across the district. 

The new chairman was elected just two years ago after contesting his first council election and now finds himself propelled to the most senior position on the local authority.

Highly regarded by his party and the key driver at the helm of Down Community Arts and a member of the Downpatrick Regeneration Working Group, the chairman is looking forward to his year in office.

Cllr Campbell — who missed the annual meeting as he’s on holiday — said he’s “deeply honoured” to serve as the district’s new council chairman.

“I was raised in Downpatrick, but it's not just where I live, it’s who I am,” he said.

“I’m proud to call it my home; I’m proud to raise my young family here and I’m proud of the people who make it such a special place.”

Cllr Campbell said with the support of his Sinn Féin colleagues and “incredible family”, he steps into the chairman’s role with the clear purpose of “making Newry, Mourne and Down the very best it can be for everyone, especially young people”.

He passionately believes that young people are at the heart of the district’s future and during his term in office he aims to empower them through projects in the community, sport and arts.

“Whether it's in the community, on a playing field, or on a theatre stage, every young person across our district deserves the chance to thrive and be heard,” said Cllr Campbell.

“We are stronger together. And together, we can build a district where every young person feels proud of where they come from—and excited about their future.”

Thanking his party colleagues for their support and encouragement, the new chairman said he looks forward to working with everyone in the council in the year ahead.

Cllr Campbell also thanked outgoing chairman Pete Byrne and his deputy David Lee-Surginor for their work over the past year.

The new council vice-chairwoman, who succeeded Rowallane Alliance councillor Lee-Surginor, echoed the spirit of partnership to make Newry, Mourne and Down the “best place to live, work, visit and invest in”.

Cllr Kearns, who thanked her predecessor for his year in office, said she was “honoured to have been selected” for her new role.

“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,” she said.

“We’re entering a busy and exciting year and I’m looking forward to progress on a number of key regeneration projects in Newry and Downpatrick, the Narrow Water Bridge and major local facilities like Camlough Lake, play parks across our district, leisure centres and more.”

Cllr Kearns said each of these projects will enhance the quality of life for residents.

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

Cllr Kearns also thanked her colleagues for proposing her for the role of  deputy chairwoman.