Councillor Patrick Clarke resigns

Councillor Patrick Clarke resigns

12 October 2016

INDEPENDENT councillor Patrick Clarke last night announced his resignation from Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Mr Clarke, who was facing action for breaching the local government code of conduct, said he was stepping down “with immediate effect” on health grounds

Mr Clarke (42) defrauded two community groups and also had comvictions for sexual assault and charges related to a burglary.

He was elected to Down Council in 2011 as a member of the Alliance Party. He was elected to Newry, Mourne and Down Council in 2014, again on the Alliance ticket, but latterly served as an independent.

He said last night that he was stepping down due to his “mental and physical condition.”

He continued: “I wish to apologise to my family, friends, voters or anyone who was affected by actions regarding court cases.

“I served all of the people to the best of my ability, regardless of their religion or politics.

“I have instructed the council’s chief executive, Mr Liam Hannaway, of my decision to stand down with immediate effect.

“I trust I will be remembered for the good work that I did and not my mistakes. I hope people will pray for me.”