Speaking following the announcement that he had joined the Ulster Unionist Party, Alderman Ryan McCready said:

“I am very happy to be joining the Ulster Unionist Party under the leadership of Doug Beattie. I have spoken at length with Doug and it is more important than ever that unionism has modern, confident and positive leadership. It is that type of leadership which I will continue to give to the people of Londonderry.

“I have not taken this decision lightly, as politics is not the most attractive thing to get involved in for many reasons, but it would be uncharacteristic of me not to answer the call and to put my head above the parapet once again.

“I will continue to work for everyone without prejudice. I will do what is right for the people of Londonderry, challenge the status quo and think differently, strategically and do what is best for the future of Northern Ireland.”

Ulster Unionist Party leader, Doug Beattie MC MLA, said:

“I am absolutely delighted that Ryan has decided to join the Ulster Unionist Party. He shares our vision for an inclusive, progressive, confident unionism and he has all the qualities we need going forward.

“He is exactly the sort of articulate, forward thinking person that Northern Ireland needs in the Assembly. He is an impressive person and a superb public representative who has excelled in his career to date.

“When I took over the leadership of the Ulster Unionist Party I made it my goal to build a union of people across Northern Ireland and beyond. Ryan is part of the new generation of unionist politicians who can give strong, confident leadership for the future.

“My door is always open to anyone who identifies with our brand of unionism.”

ENDS

Notes:

Alderman Ryan McCready represents the Faughan District Electoral Area on Derry City and Strabane District Council