Colin McCusker has been announced the new Ulster Unionist Party councillor on Craigavon Borough Council, replacing Jo-Anne Dobson, following her decision to step down to concentrate on her role as an MLA.

Colin said:

“I am honoured to have been chosen by my Party to become the new councillor for the Lurgan DEA.  I am relishing the challenge of representing the people of the Lurgan.  The Ulster Unionist Party has a track record of strong representation and getting things done in Upper Bann and I look forward to building on this.’

Jo-Anne said

“I am delighted that Colin will be replacing me on Craigavon Council.  I know he will be a great addition to the council team and will work hard for the people of Lurgan.’

“Having worked with Colin during the 2011 election I know that he will make a fantastic councillor who will be committed to ensuring the people of Lurgan are getting the best possible representation.  He is also a committed Ulster Unionist and I know that this is only the beginning of his political career.’

“I have enjoyed my time representing the Lurgan DEA since 2010 and I gained a lot of experience during my time as a councillor which has proved invaluable as an MLA.  I now look forward to representing all the people of Upper Bann in Stormont during this Assembly.’

Ulster Unionist Party leader Tom Elliott said

“I am in no doubt that in Colin Lurgan has gained an excellent, hard-working councillor.  He will be a fantastic addition to the Ulster Unionist team in Upper Bann and I look forward to working with him.’ 

“I would also like to pay tribute to Jo-Anne for all her hard work and service since her election in 2010.  When she won the by-election with 64% of the vote I knew that she would work hard for the DEA and that has been backed up by the fact that Upper Bann has now chosen her to represent them at Stormont.’