Thanks for support during recent election

SIR, — Firstly I want to thank all those who supported my recent Assembly campaign. Be that the electorate, my campaign team or, of course, my family and friends. A lesser seen part of elections is that candidates become virtual strangers to those closest to them for the prolonged election period.

But now that the dust has settled we must see government and action for local people. We must see services at the Downe, infrastructure projects actually happening, our schools being supported and resourced, our outdoor centres saved and youth services extended. 

We must hear less about crocodiles and alligators and more about health, education, jobs and the economy — the issues that now, more than ever, matter to local people. 

I hope there will be sensible days ahead at Stormont and I pledge to play my part to bring about normal, reasonable, people-centred politics that allows us to serve our community and not narrow political agendas.

I finally thank all the other candidates. For some the loss will be painful, for others a massive blow. Each candidate brought a strength and personality that should make all of us better people and thus better advocates in our community.

Thank you.

Yours etc,

COLIN McGRATH MLA,

Downpatrick.