Conor Murphy has been confirmed as Newry and Armagh’s newest MLA.
The former MP will be co-opted on Monday into the seat vacated by Mickey Brady, when he won the recent Westminster election.
Mr Murphy, who is both a former MP and MLA, as well as Sinn Fein’s Economic spokesperson, said he was looking forward to getting back to the Assembly.
“There is a huge job of work to do and a lot of difficulties that we need to resolve but I’m confident that with a little effort and a little imagination we can do so,” he said.
“In terms of the north we need to build a united front against the oncoming Tory cuts which, if the recent cuts to Scotland are anything to go by, will be devastating.
“As well as trying to get local parties on board we’ll also be speaking to like minded parties in Scotland and Wales in an effort to build a real movement against the failed policy of austerity.
“Of course my primary responsibility will be to my constituents. I’ll be representing the wider Newry area and there is a whole raft of issues there that need tackled and I’m looking forward to working with the people in order to do so.”
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