Outgoing council chairman attended 350 district events

Outgoing council chairman attended 350 district events

4 June 2025

GLOWING tributes were paid to outgoing council chairman Pete Byrne from parties across the political spectrum at Monday night’s annual meeting.

The SDLP man revealed he attended 350 events during his term in office and was looking forward to a little rest before returning to the debating chamber and continuing to work for the people of Slieve Gullion and wider district.

Addressing councillors as chairman for the last time, Cllr Byrne said he looked back on his term which was defined by visibility, inclusion and connection. 

He expressed gratitude to his fellow councillors, council officers and community partners for their support and welcomed new chairman Philip Campbell and his deputy Geraldine Kearns.

As he concluded his chairmanship, he said he “reflected 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,” Cllr Byrne continued.

“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.”

Cllr Byrne said that as a businessman, he worked to champion economic growth, promote the area’s 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,” he continued.

“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.”

Cllr Byrne added: “This may be the end as my time as chair, but it’s not the end of the journey. The work of inclusion, compassion and community service continues and I will be right there with you every step of the way.”

Outgoing deputy chairman David Lee-Surginor 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,” he said.

“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.”

The outgoing deputy chairman said his highlights included meeting former Irish President Mary McAleese.

Also right up there for him was celebrating the achievements of the district’s young people and leading Newry Pride with Cllr Byrne as the first openly gay chair and deputy council chairs on the island of Ireland.

He said this, alongside taking part in Newry’s St Patrick’s Day parade “were all incredible honours”. 

Cllr Lee-Surginor added: “Ours is a district full of powerful stories. I’m proud to have played a small part in its journey over the past year.

“The new chair and vice-chair are inheriting a district rich in heritage, talent and community spirit and i have no doubt you will lead with dedication and distinction.”

Tributes to the outgoing chair and deputy were led by Downpatrick SDLP councillor Gareth Sharvin.

Addressing the chairman, he said: “As your friends and colleagues we could not be more proud of your year in office and to have attended 350 events is testament to your commitment to the role,” said Cllr Sharvin, praising his commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community and leading last year’s Newry Pride parade as the district’s first citizen.”

Downpatrick Sinn Fein councillor Oonagh Hanlon, also praised Cllrs Byrne and Lee-Surginor for their work over the past 12 months and said they lived up to their commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

“You both did a great job,” she added.

The council’s DUP group leader, Jonny Jackson, also thanked both men for leading the district and their excellent work over the past year, while the UUP’s David Taylor also thanked both men.

Slieve Croob Alliance councillor Helena Young said Cllr Byrne had been a “fantastic chair” and was “engaging, open and empathetic” and thanked him for hosting Knockevin Special School to a recent visit to the council chamber.

She said Cllr Lee-Surginor was a “wonderful representative” for the council and his Alliance colleagues were very proud of him.