New Alliance representative takes seat on Antrim and Newtownabbey Council

The Alliance Party has selected Andrew McAuley as its new councillor for the Airport DEA on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.
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Andrew was selected by his local association at a special meeting at the end of February – a meeting which saw four candidates come forward.

He takes over from Victoria McAuley who is standing down after deciding to focus on supporting the NHS, in returning to her medical career as the Covid-19 pandemic continues.

A long-time resident of the area, Andrew said he was excited to continue the fantastic work Victoria had undertaken in the area – with his focus going forward on the environment and helping the local community come through the coronavirus pandemic.

Mossley Mill.Mossley Mill.
Mossley Mill.

He added: “It is a great honour to take up the role of Alliance councillor for Airport. I’ve seen first-hand the hard work and dedication Vicki has given to the role and the number of people she has helped. At this crucial time, as we continue to deal with the impact and on-going pandemic it is important this work continues.

“Covid-19 has been extremely tough, but it has also shown us with some small changes, the impact on our environment is encouraging. I’m passionate about nature, the environment and addressing the looming problems climate change will bring.

“Top of my priority list will be helping local people overcome the hardships caused by Covid-19, as well as environmental aims of bringing the 1 million tree initiative locally, along with introducing rewilding to the borough, starting with our parks and open spaces.”

Victoria added: “It was during Covid-19 that I returned from maternity leave to work as an ED doctor. I’ve seen first-hand the valuable work our NHS continues to deliver and I want to do more, which is why I’ve started training to be a GP.

“I have enjoyed my time on council and being able to grow the Alliance presence in the Airport area. As a working mother, Andrew has always been an invaluable support to me and I look forward to watching him take the role forward.”

Confirming the co-option, a spokesperson for the Elecotral Office said: “Virginia McVea, the Chief Electoral Officer, gave notice that Andrew McAuley had been returned to fill the vacancy on Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council with effect from February 24.”

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A total of six Alliance Party candidates were selected to stand in Newtownabbey for the Local Government Election in May 2019.

For more on this story, read here

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