New Sinn Féin face on Newry and Mourne Council

Sinn Féin has co-opted Newry mother of three Marian Mathers onto the Newry and Mourne District Council as a replacement for MLA Davy Hyland, who resigned to concentrate on his role within the Assembly.

She joined the council on Monday night 2 August, when none of the other parties objected to the Sinn Féin co-option.

Mathers, who becomes the third female councillor to take her seat in the council, currently manages the Sinn Féin advice centre in Newry and has been a republican activist for many years

Speaking after the council meeting, Mathers praised Hyland for his commitment and dedication to the people of Newry and Mourne and said he had set a fine example.

"I am very happy that the Sinn Féin female representation on the council has now increased to two," she added.