Cllr Marc Collins back in Mid and East Antrim chamber after suspension

By Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter
Published 5th Apr 2023, 18:56 BST
Updated 5th Apr 2023, 19:07 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
DUP Councillor Marc Collins has returned to the council chamber after an eight-month suspension.

The Knockagh representative attended a Mid and East Antrim Borough Council meeting in Ballymena on Monday.

He put forward a motion seeking an event similar to the Massed Bands of the Irish Regiments concert held at Carrickfergus Castle in 2021 to take place annually.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It was the last full meeting of council before May’s local government election in which Cllr Collins will be seeking re-election.

Cllr Marc Collins.Cllr Marc Collins.
Cllr Marc Collins.

Cllr Collins was suspended from his role by the Local Government Commissioner for Standards following an adjudication hearing last June. He was sanctioned after a complaint against him was upheld over 2019 Twitter comments in relation to then Sinn Fein Westminster candidate and now MP for North Belfast John Finucane.

Speaking in January after being named on the DUP ticket, Mr Collins said: “I’m delighted to be running again and thank the party for once again putting their faith in me.”

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

Related topics:DUPBallymena