18 November, 2004

Other News

Search: Print this article Other News The people's leader - Yasser Arafat dies Condolences to Hassan family Batasuna in fresh talks bid 'Socialist' Bertie challenged on Health Monaghan man wins case against Gardaí Announcement of collusion inquiries met with caution British must give Human Rights Commission proper powers Gráinne Mhic Géidigh selected for Údaras Call for full Citizenship Rights for ex-prisoners An Cumann Cabhrach re-launched UDA attacks SDLP councillor's home PSNI intimidate SF rep Racists challenged at North Belfast rally Secret deal protects PSNI members of Orange Order "Ulster is being sold, help us buy it" Year of progress celebrated in Dublin Promoting disabled rights in Buncrana McGuinness updates Irish American Unity Conference Bandon SF funds playground MEP honours Kerry republicans Battling the elements for the Colombia Three - BY SORCHA Ní DHUBHDA Edentubber Martyrs' hard but noble road Sign up to receive news from An Phoblacht. Enter your e-mail address: Privacy policy

O'Donnell will not seek re-election

Photo: Joe O'Donnell

Joe O'Donnell, the Sinn Féin deputy mayor of Belfast, has disclosed he will not be standing in next May's council elections, citing personal reasons.

The 53-year-old father of three was elected to Belfast City Hall in 2001 and became the first Sinn Féin councillor to represent the nationalist Short Strand area, which is situated in the predominantly unionist East Belfast. He was elected as deputy mayor in June this year.

During his time on the council, O'Donnell was to the fore in voicing support for people from the Short Strand when loyalists, throughout 2002, laid siege to the area.

He broke new ground earlier this year when he and PUP leader David Ervine committed themselves to jointly working to aid disadvantaged areas in East Belfast.

"It has been a personal and political privilege for me to serve in this role, but after careful consideration and discussing the matter with my family and friends, I have decided not to seek a nomination in next year's local government elections," he said.

Sinn Féin national chair Mitchel McLaughlin said Joe had played an important role in the development of Sinn Féin in Belfast for many years.

O'Donnell survived a UDA murder bid in 1989 after UDA gunmen burst into his home, but Joe wasn't home and the gang fled.

Articles may not be reproduced without the consent of An Phoblacht. For further information, please contact