The Ulster Unionist Party has announced that Jill Macauley has been selected to replace Harold McKee MLA on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council following his election to the Northern Ireland Assembly.
Party Leader, Mike Nesbitt MLA said:
“I am delighted Jill has finally made the move from supporter and activist to the heart of politics. She will be a tremendous asset not just to the Party but also the Council, offering the enthusiasm and common sense approach that are essential to making a positive difference.”
Councillor Jill Macauley said:
“I am delighted to have been selected as the new local Ulster Unionist Party Councillor for the Mournes DEA.
“From a strong business and marketing background, I have been an Ulster Unionist Party member since I was 18, and have been in an active role within the South Down Constituency Association since 2007, during numerous election campaigns.
“As a mum of four and wife of a dairy farmer, and having both lived and worked in the area, I feel the time is right for me to fulfil the role of local Councillor that gives me a chance to make a difference to the quality of life for local families and businesses.
“I feel honoured to have been selected to replace my Party colleague Harold McKee MLA after his successful election to the Northern Ireland Assembly and look forward to continuing the good work of the Ulster Unionist Party team on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council. I am also delighted to be increasing the level of female representation in local politics.
“As the third biggest district Council, and with a younger population than the rest of Northern Ireland, it presents such great opportunities for the future, and increases the need for future investment in our local area. I am a great believer that politics and government at every level should be making a positive difference to our daily lives. As a local Councillor for the Mournes DEA I will proactively work for the local community to deliver on what matters most.”
Councillor David Taylor, Ulster Unionist Group Leader on Newry, Mourne and Down Council, said:
“"I am extremely pleased that Jill has been selected to serve as the new Ulster Unionist Party Representative for the Mournes District Electoral Area.
"I have no doubt Jill will be a very conscientious and hard-working public representative for the Mournes area. She will also serve to be a considerable asset to the Ulster Unionist team on Newry, Mourne & Down District Council and I offer her my congratulations and very best wishes as she assumes her new role."