Widow of SDLP stalwart opens new party office in Newcastle

Widow of SDLP stalwart opens new party office in Newcastle

28 August 2013

SOUTH Down SDLP Assemblyman Sean Rogers has opened a new constituency office in Newcastle.

The opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. Anne O’Donoghue, widow of former Newcastle SDLP party stalwart Paddy O’Donoghue.

She thanked Mr. Rogers for involving her in the “special day for the SDLP” in the resort, explaining that since the formation of the party in 1970, it has retained strong support in Newcastle and adjoining areas.

Mrs. O’Donoghue said the new office will not only bring renewed enthusiasm to the party faithful, but provide a welcoming parliamentary constituency service to all residents of the area.

Mr. Rogers, who was joined by SDLP leader Alasdair McDonnell for the opening ceremony, said he felt “privileged” to open a constituency office in Newcastle. He explained Mr. O’Donoghue, who lived close to the new office, won an Assembly seat for the fledgling SDLP along with Frank Feely and Eddie McGrady in 1973.

“I am particularly delighted to welcome Mr. McGrady today and want to thank Mrs. O’Donoghue for performing the opening ceremony. We have retained a strong electoral presence in the area, indeed all across South Down, ever since 1973.

“This is in no small way due to the leadership from Mr. McGrady and, in recent years, Margaret Ritchie, supported by MLAs P. J. Bradley, Eamonn O’Neill, Karen McKevitt, the team of councillors and the rank and file members from branches.”

Mr. Rogers paid special tribute to councillor O’Neill and party colleague Carmel O’Boyle for “keeping the SDLP flag flying in Newcastle and Castlewellan.”

Mr. Rogers continued: “It is a coincidence that I am now the party’s education spokesperson, a role once held by Paddy O’Donoghue. It is also more than just a coincidence that our respective interests centred on our roles as local councillors and that outside of politics we were both school teachers and both held keen interests in the activities and development of the GAA in Co. Down.

“When we opened our office in Railway Street a few months ago we quite soon learned that we had made a good decision. The office has been extremely busy and now it has been officially opened we do expect the demand on constituency work to Increase.”

The MLA added: “I am a representative of all people and welcome all opportunities to assist constituents, regardless of their political persuasions.”

Mr. McDonnell said he is delighted the party has opened a new constituency office in Newcastle and said the service provided by Mr. Rogers and his team will provide a valuable service for local people.