School assistant to replace Burns on local council

School assistant to replace Burns on local council

14 February 2018

SINN Fein has chosen Castlewellan woman Roisin Howell to replace Cllr Stephen Burns on Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Cllr Burns — who represents the Slive Croob electoral area — formally steps down at the end of the month to concentrate on family and business interests.

He was co-opted to replace Frank McDowell in November 2010 and fought his first council election in 2011 when he secured a seat on the former Down Council, representing the Newcastle area.

Cllr Burns subsequently secured a seat on Newry, Mourne and Down Council in 2014 when he topped the poll in Slieve Croob.

His successor has been a member of Sinn Fein for over 10 years with the 39 year-old mother-of-five describing it an “honour” to replace Cllr Burns on the local authority.

“I am in no doubt about the challenge ahead and will build on the solid foundations that have been laid down by Stephen who has served the people of Newry, Mourne and Down well,” Ms Howell said.

She has worked as a classroom assistant for over 20 years, specialising in ASD support, and is currently working in the learning support centre at St Malachy’s Primary School in Castlewellan.

“This is a brilliant time to be a Republican representative and I will do my best to represent all in the community,” she said.

“As part of a strong Sinn Féin team, I will work for everyone and continue to fight for increased opportunities for everyone. I will be a voice for the people of Slieve Croob, working for improved community services for both young and old people.”

She added: “The days of second class citizenship are gone and equality, respect and integrity are our road map towards a new, inclusive and reconciled Ireland.”