A Crossmaglen man has been co-opted by Sinn Fein as a new councillor on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
Martin Hearty’s new role follows the appointment of Aoife Finnegan as MLA.
He will replace the new Newry and Armagh Assembly representative as a councillor in the Slieve Gullion area.
Speaking after being chosen at a selection convention in South Armagh, Councillor Hearty said: “I am proud and honoured to have been selected for co-option to Newry Mourne & Down Council to replace Aoife Finnegan, who has taken on the role of MLA for Newry and Armagh.
“I have worked closely with Aoife over many years and know the great work she has done for the people of Crossmaglen and wider area.
“I will endeavour to ensure that service to the people continues and that their voices are heard.”
The new MLA offered her congratulations to her successor and said she looked forward to working with him to deliver on the issues that mattered to local families and communities.
“Martin will be a fantastic representative for this area,” she added.
“Along with all our team of Sinn Féin representatives, we will work together to deliver on the issues that matter to our families, workers and communities.”
