Mayor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir’s ‘Duracell term’ ends

GERRY ADAMS has commended the tremendous work carried by outgoing mayor of Belfast and Sinn Féin Councillor Máirtín Ó Muilleoir as Monday 2 June saw the South Belfast councillor's last day as Mayor in a tenure almost universally praised across the political, social and commercial spectrum as one of energy, commitment, imagination and openness.

To mark the occasion, the Sinn Féin President presented Máirtín with a book on the life and work of Belfast artist John Lavery.

He praised Máirtín’s work during a year which saw him raise the profile of the office to new heights.

The Sinn Féin leader maintained that Máirtín was “running on Duracell” batteries like the trademark Duracell Bunny given his “high energy” approach to the job.

“He represented everyone in the city he was there for all,” Gerry Adams said.

Máirtín said the year “saw many highs” and achievements that could not have been accomplished “if citizens across the city were not prepared to meet me half-way”.

He also singled out the support of Sinn Féin, saying that all his initiatives “had the support and backing of the party”.