Niall Lawlor - Sinn Féin

- Co-opted councillor to replace Leanne McEvoy in late 2025.

- Not yet elected in his own right. 

- No current Register of Interests available on Council Records. 

- Works closely with Chris Hazzard MP to build his profile in the Mourne area. 

- Currently building his profile through constituency work and committee participation (limited public record so far). 

Declan Murphy – Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin councillor for Slieve Gullion since 2022.

- Co-opted to the council in 2022 and subsequently elected in his own right at the 2023 local elections.

- Manager of Tí Chulainn Cultural Activity Centre, Camlough Community Association, and a director of McElhaw Properties Limited.

- Cllr Declan Murphy abstained from the vote to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7 July 2025. However, at the following council meeting on 6 October 2025, he voiced strong support for Newry joining the Council of Sanctuary Network UK, stating that he "did not want to live in a world dominated by hatred and division." (Council Minutes, 6 October 2025).

- Cllr Murphy further stated:

"We want to live in a world that is more inclusive, that is more open, that is more caring, not one that is full of hatred and division. We can see this is a global issue. This isn't just confined to Newry, Mourne and Down. We can see the rise of misogyny. We can see the rise of racism, and we can see that that serves a particular political agenda, and I'm not going to buy into that agenda. In fact, we will do everything in our power to oppose it, have done for decades, and will continue to do that. So I support the Council of Sanctuary proposal."

- Cllr Declan Murphy co-chairs the Newry City Centre Regeneration Programme Board alongside Cllr Doire Finn (SDLP).

- As a councillor, Declan Murphy has been involved in securing and supporting a new play park in Bessbrook and a new bus shelter in Whitecross.

- Supportive of LGBTQ+ equality and women’s rights.

Jill Truesdale - Alliance 

- Alliance Councillor for Mournes area.

- First elected in 2023. Elected as part of a wider Alliance effort to increase representation across Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

- Operations Manager at Rosie's Trust.

- Cllr Jill Truesdale opposed the Mournes gondola proposal on environmental grounds.

- Speaking out on local flooding and infrastructure issues in Newcastle and surrounding areas.

- Has spoken out on Climate Change and Sustainability issues and supported a motion for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT) at council level. This international treaty seeks to end reliance on fossil fuels.

- Supported climate emergency-related policy alignment at council level.

- Voted 'Yes' to make NMDDC a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025.

- Cllr Truesdale has worked to improve local issues including flooding, infrastructure, road maintenance, street lighting, and community safety.

Henry Reilly - DUP

- DUP councillor for The Mournes, having served continuously in the area for over 30 years.

- First elected in 1989 to the former Newry & Mourne District Council as a UUP councillor. Served as Mayor of Newry & Mourne (2004–2005) while in the UUP.

- Cllr Reilly has changed parties several times and has sat with the DUP since 2022.

- Has been a frequent political critic of government policy, including immigration, Brexit, and Westminster decisions.

- Cllr Henry Reilly has continued to comment publicly on border enforcement and immigration, calling for stronger UK Border Force action in the Newry and Mourne area amid changes in Irish immigration policy.

- Voted ‘No’ to an SDLP/Sinn Féin-supported motion to make Newry a ‘City/Council of Sanctuary’ in July 2025, citing pressures on local services and concerns about what commitments the council was signing up to.

- Cllr Reilly proposed a motion to repeal the Northern Ireland Climate Change Act (2022) and replace it with more “workable” legislation in October 2025.

- Opposed the recent Rates increase, stating that local businesses will suffer and that efforts should instead be made to save council money by stopping any duplication in management since the merger of the two councils. Cllr Reilly stated: “We believe that we should focus sharply on the cost to the ratepayer and examine any duplication of jobs that may still exist from the amalgamation of the former Newry and Mourne council and Down council.” (Belfast Live, 2 February 2026)

Glyn Hanna - DUP 

- DUP councillor for Slieve Croob. 

- First elected to NMDDC in 2014, following local government reorganisation. Re-elected in 2019 and 2023.

- Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council 2026–27.

- Owner of Glyn Hanna Accident Repair Centre, involved with Mourne Stimulus Ltd, Council Road, Kilkeel, River Valley Development Ltd, and in the process of joining the Mourne Heritage Trust Board.

- Cllr Hanna has served on a range of council committees, including planning, regulatory, and community-related structures.

- Absent during the vote on opting Newry into 'Council of Sanctuary' in July 2025. However Cllr Hanna proposed a motion to halt progress on the 'Council of Sanctuary' proceedings in October 6th 2025.

- Spoke at a rally against opting Newry into 'Council of Sanctuary'. Has spoken against the decision in council meetings.

- Cllr Hanna has been involved in representing local issues in the Slieve Croob area, including rural development, planning applications, infrastructure, and community concerns.

Laura Devlin SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for The Mournes.

- Co-opted onto the former Down District Council in December 2013. Elected to the newly created Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) following local government reorganisation in 2014. Re-elected in 2019 and 2023.

- Councillor Devlin served as Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in 2020–2021.

- Councillor Devlin has been a member of the SDLP since 1999 and has worked for the party on a full-time basis for over 20 years.

- She is the party’s Spokesperson on Tourism and Hospitality and the current Group Leader on Council.

- Councillor Devlin works for Colin McGrath MLA in South Down as his Constituency Manager.

- Councillor Devlin is a Non-Executive Member on the Board of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, which attracts an annual remuneration of £6,643.

- Infrastructure Minister John O’Dowd appointed Councillor Laura Devlin to serve as a Non-Executive Councillor Member on the Board of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA) in June 2024. The appointment is for a maximum of 4 years.

- Absent for the vote on 'Council of Sanctuary' on 07/07/25. However, she did vote to support the designation of 'Council of Sanctuary' at a council vote on 6th October 2025.

- Since her election in 2023, Cllr Laura Devlin’s publicly reported work has included campaigning on healthcare, particularly the restoration and protection of services at Daisy Hill Hospital and local GP provision, advocating for road safety and investment in local infrastructure, and supporting local businesses, tourism, and regeneration projects in the Mournes and South Down. 

Michael Rice – Sinn Féin

- First became a councillor in December 2021, when he was co-opted. He was subsequently elected in his own right at the 2023 local elections.

- Will contest the next Northern Ireland Assembly election in a bid to become a Sinn Féin MLA for South Down in 2027.

- Studied Law at Queen’s University Belfast, where he completed a Master’s degree.

- Former Chair of South Down Ógra Shinn Féin and a long-time Sinn Féin activist.

- Works with Andrea Reid Solicitors Ltd.

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7 July 2025. Reaffirmed his support for the motion in the 6th October 2025 council vote.

- In April 2024, Cllr Michael Rice called for the Government to relax immigration rules due to a “severe shortage of seasonal workers” at Kilkeel and Ardglass harbours. He criticised Brexit, arguing that it had imposed restrictions on how long workers can stay in Northern Ireland.

- From May to June 2022, he served for three weeks as interim Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) after Cllr Cathy Mason (Sinn Féin) was elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly. At 23 years old, he became the council's youngest-ever chairperson, serving until a new chairperson was elected.

- In 2026, he was appointed Vice Chair of the Planning Committee, with Sinn Féin's Mickey Larkin serving as Chair of the committee.

- Cllr Michael Rice is described as being committed to equal rights and social justice. 

Willie Clarke – Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin councillor for The Mournes District Electoral Area.

- Willie Clarke is one of Sinn Féin's longest-serving elected representatives in the South Down area, having served at both local government and Assembly level.

- First elected as an MLA to the Northern Ireland Assembly for South Down in 2003. He was re-elected in 2007 and 2011 before resigning in 2012 to remain a councillor.

- Elected to the current Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC) in 2014, following local government reorganisation. Re-elected in 2019 and 2023.

- First Sinn Féin Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

- Absent for the vote on 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7 July 2025. However, he voted with his Sinn Féin colleagues to progress the 'Council of Sanctuary' motion at a council meeting on 6th October 2025.

- During his time in local government and the Assembly, his work has focused on planning and sustainable development; the local economy in the Mournes; rural infrastructure and environmental issues; fisheries and agriculture while serving as an MLA; and community regeneration projects across the Newcastle and Mournes area.

- Cllr Willie Clarke has served as Co-Chair of the Mourne Mountains Gateway Project Programme Board, helping to oversee work on the proposed visitor gateway project for the Mournes. 

David Taylor - UUP

- First elected to the council in 2011.

- Works as a Welfare Support Officer.

- Serves as Chair of the Ulster Unionist Councillors Association.

- Represents UUP councillors across Northern Ireland on council-related policy and standards.

- Cllr David Taylor’s work has included local planning and development decisions, community and rural issues in South Armagh, and constituency casework for residents in Slieve Gullion.

- Cllr David Taylor is Chair of Bessbrook Primary School Board of Governors, Honorary Secretary of Select Vestry, St Patrick’s Parish Church, Newry, and a Board of Governors member of Windsor Hill Primary School.

- Voted 'Yes' to opting Newry into the 'City/Council of Sanctuary' network on 7th July 2025. However, during the 6th October 2025 council meeting, Cllr Taylor backtracked, stating that “we're potentially signing up to something without actually knowing what the impact of that is.” Cllr Taylor also suggested an Equality Impact Assessment should have been done (Newry.ie, 7th October 2025).

Pete Byrne - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Slieve Gullion.

- Became a councillor in 2016, when he was co-opted to replace Geraldine Donnelly. He was then elected in his own right in 2019 and re-elected in 2023.

- Cllr Pete Byrne runs Byrne Monumental Works Ltd, a family memorial business, and works as a private Maths tutor.

- Trustee of St Oliver Plunkett Youth Club, Crossmaglen.

- Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (2024–2025).

- During his time as Chairperson of the council, Cllr Pete Byrne proposed that Newry become a 'City/Council of Sanctuary'. Cllr Byrne put the motion to vote on 7th July 2025, with then Councillor Gareth Sharvin (SDLP, since resigned) seconding the motion.

- Cllr Pete Byrne has been vehemently in favour of Newry becoming a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' and reaffirmed his support for this at a council meeting on 6th October 2025.

- Promoted LGBT+ community during his role as Council Chairperson.

- Chair of the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor Political Advisory Group, representing elected members from the partner councils. In that role, he chaired meetings of councillors from the eight participating local authorities and promoted cross-border economic cooperation.

- Chair of the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor Oversight Board, a political leadership body established to help guide the partnership's work on economic development, investment, transport, skills, and infrastructure. This is a cross-border partnership established to foster economic growth along the key strategic route between Dublin and Belfast. The Board predicts that by 2040, the population between Belfast and Dublin will grow by 500,000 people. 

(Louth CoCo) 

Aine Quinn - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Slieve Gullion.

- First elected in 2023.

- Cllr Aine Quinn works as a paralegal in Tara Walsh Solicitors.

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Reaffirmed her position in another vote on 6th October 2025.

- Represented the council on external bodies, including the Ring of Gullion Landscape Partnership.

- Cllr Quinn has worked with fellow Sinn Féin councillors Mickey Larkin and Oonagh Magennis to support the redevelopment of Conway Play Park in Mullaghbawn.

- Cllr Aine Quinn campaigned for improvements to local roads.  

Oonagh Magennis - Sinn Féin

- Councillor for Slieve Gullion 

- First elected in 2019 in the local government elections and re-elected in 2023.

- Cllr Magennis criticised the Northern Irish pro-life group 'Precious Life' for campaigning against abortion in 2021.

- Supported a motion by Sinn Féin Councillor Róisín Howell to secure abortion services for Newry City.

- Cllr Oonagh Magennis voted 'Yes' to make the Newry, Mourne, Down and South Armagh area a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025 (council minutes). She reaffirmed her position on 6th October 2025 at another council vote.

- Cllr Oonagh Magennis was Deputy Chairperson (Vice Chair) of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for the 2021–2022 municipal year. During that year she claimed £22,688 in expenses, which included £5,245 for her vice role and £1,039 in mileage (Armaghi, 16/08/22).

- Chair of the Sustainability and Environment Committee during the 2022–2023 council year.

- In the 2026–2027 year, Cllr Oonagh Magennis will serve as Vice Chair on the Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee, with the Chair being Councillor Callum Bowsie.

- Cllr Oonagh Magennis has supported planning permission for a new community centre in Camlough, backed the Camlough Lake Recreation Hub project, and campaigned for road safety improvements, including funding for repairs between Mullaghbawn and Lislea and traffic-calming measures in Belleeks. 

Mickey Larkin - Sinn Féin

- SF Councillor for Slieve Gullion 

- First elected in 2014, re-elected in 2019 and 2023.

- Worked for Royal Mail as a postman.

- Cllr Mickey Larkin has participated in cross-border community initiatives and engaged with rural development and anti-dumping partnerships between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

- Cllr Larkin has brought forward motions on illegal dumping and fly-tipping, worked on cross-border cooperation with Louth County Council to tackle waste crime, and highlighted that parts of the Slieve Gullion area suffer from high levels of dumping.

- Cllr Mickey Larkin voted 'Yes' to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed his position in another vote on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Larkin is Chair of the NMDDC Planning Committee for 2026–27.

- He has been involved in supporting or securing funding for local sports and community groups, development of Slieve Gullion and Forkhill community spaces, and a new pre-school in Forkhill. 

Martin Hearty - Sinn Féin

- Councillor for Slieve Gullion.

- Cllr Martin Hearty was co-opted as a Sinn Féin councillor in March 2025, replacing Aoife Finnegan after she became an MLA for Newry and Armagh.

- He has not been elected by voters in his own right.

- Graduated from Ulster University with a degree in Media Studies and Irish History.

- From 2009 to 2014, Cllr Hearty worked as a journalist in both a full-time and freelance capacity for a number of regional (Q Radio Network, Newry Democrat) and national (Irish News, Irish Times, Irish Examiner, RTÉ) outlets.

- Became Sinn Féin's press officer for the Newry/Armagh constituency in 2015.

- Served as Communications Manager for former Sinn Féin MEP and 2018 Sinn Féin presidential candidate Liadh Ní Riada (South Cork). Cllr Martin was responsible for managing and coordinating Ní Riada's public communications and media strategy during her European role.

- Following that, he joined the Sinn Féin Assembly Team in 2020, where he worked as the party's Policy Advisor on Climate Change, the Environment, and Fisheries.

- Policy advisor to Nicola Brogan MLA (Sinn Féin – West Tyrone) on both the Infrastructure and Communities Committees, as well as a number of APGs and Sinn Féin working groups.

- Sinn Féin policy adviser on climate change, environment, and fisheries in the Northern Ireland Assembly.

- Cllr Martin Hearty voted 'Yes' to designate Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025 and confirmed his position on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Hearty proposed a motion at Sinn Féin's 2026 Ard Fheis calling for "South Armagh" to be reflected in the name of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

- Raises concerns over Palestine at meetings of NMDDC.

Helena Young - Alliance

- Alliance Councillor for Slieve Croob since being co-opted in 2024.

- Has not been elected in her own right; co-opted following predecessor Andrew McMurray becoming an MLA. Had previously stood in elections and narrowly missed out before being selected/co-opted.

- Works as a Constituency Assistant for Patrick Brown, Alliance MLA for South Down.

- Cllr Helena Young is a Board Member of Sticky Fingers Arts (The Imaginarium) with Cllr Cathal King (SF), who is a Non-Executive Director.

- Cllr Young is a member of Newry Maritime Association.

- Lifelong resident of Newry with experience in retail, childcare, management, training, and home care work.

- Public council contributions include recognising work by local ethnic minority support organisations and promoting community cohesion.

- Voted 'Yes' in support of making Newry a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed her position on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Helena Young has also spoken publicly on opposing hate crime and intimidation, and supporting inclusive community safety and respect for minority groups.

- Cllr Young opposed the proposed Newry Civic Centre (Civic Hub) in its current form as “too big”, “wrong location”, and with excessive cost. She also raised concerns about business impact and parking loss.

- Cllr Young supported expansion of a home-to-hospital transport scheme for rural patients, arguing it should not become a “postcode lottery” and should be extended across the district.- Cllr Young supported expansion of a home-to-hospital transport scheme for rural patients, argued it should not become a “postcode lottery” and should be extended across the district. 

Alan Lewis - DUP

- DUP Councillor for Slieve Croob Area. 

- Councillor since 2019 (originally elected as a UUP councillor, later joined the DUP in 2022). 

- Holds positions including: Office Holder – Lecale Royal Black, Deputy District Master, Cumran PS Board of Governers. 

- Cllr Lewis is also publicly registered as working as a victims’ advocate (SEFF – South East Fermanagh Foundation) in his declared interests.

- Seconded a motion by Councillor Jackson to stop Newry being made a 'City of Sanctuary' 

- Voted 'No' to proposal to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary'. Confirmed his position on 6th October 2025. 

- Cllr Lewis has worked on community and rural issues in the Slieve Croob area, local infrastructure and planning matters typical of district councillors, equality / good relations structures. 

Siobhan O'Hare - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Slieve Croob area including Kilcoo, Castlewellan, and Dromara.

- First co-opted in 2022 and retained her seat in the 2023 local elections.

- Teacher of English at the High School, Castlewellan.

- Cllr Siobhán O’Hare voted 'Yes' to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025.

- Has been active in community life through local sport, church, and voluntary work before entering politics.

- Cllr Siobhán O’Hare’s public council work has mainly involved local community development in rural areas of Slieve Croob, education-related and youth issues, local infrastructure and community services, and supporting Sinn Féin positions on equality, LGBTQ+, and public services. 

Róisín Howell - Sinn Féin

- Councillor for Slieve Croob, includes areas such as Castlewellan, Ballynahinch, Dromara, and surrounding rural communities.

- First elected in 2017 (and re-elected in 2023).

- Held the position of Council Chairperson in 2023.

- Cllr Róisín Howell campaigned for abortion services and criticised pro-life campaigners, including the campaign group 'Precious Life'.

- Cllr Róisín Howell called for a clampdown on pro-life protestors in 2021 under the council motion 'Accessing Healthcare Services' (Newry Democrat, 11/05/21).

- Cllr Howell brought forward a Notice of Motion to support criminalising 'pro-life' activity outside abortion centres, which was supported by Cllr Oonagh Magennis (Sinn Féin).

- Campaigns for children with Special Educational Needs.

- Cllr Howell was absent on 7th July 2025 for the vote to make NMDDC a 'Council of Sanctuary' but voted in support of the efforts to join the 'Councils of Sanctuary Network' on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Róisín Howell has also been involved in recycling and waste services discussions, community and rural infrastructure issues, and local regeneration and sports facility development, including support for the Jennings Park sports hub project.

- Promotes Irish music with Comhaltas.

- Seeking re-election in 2027. 

Jim Brennan - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Slieve Croob since 2023, replacing Cathy Mason MLA.

- Born and raised in Scotland to Irish parents, he has lived in the Newry area for more than ten years.

- Cllr Jim Brennan’s focus has been on local services and infrastructure, community safety and policing-related issues, and housing and rural development in the Slieve Croob area.

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed his position in a further vote on 6th October 2025.

- Works in dog daycare and as an administrator at Community Restorative Justice Ireland (Newry/Armagh). 

David Lee-Surginor - Alliance

- Alliance Councillor for the Rowallane area, first elected in 2023.

- In 2024–25, he served as Deputy Chairperson (Vice Chair) of the council, becoming the first Alliance Party councillor to hold that position in the council's history.

- For the 2025–26 council year, he was appointed Chair of the Economy, Regeneration and Tourism Committee.

- Owner of 'FIRED' in Killough.

- Cllr David Lee-Surginor has described himself publicly as a businessman and has frequently spoken about economic development, investment, and supporting local businesses.

- Cllr Lee-Surginor voted 'Yes' to designate NMDDC as a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025 and reaffirmed his position on 6th October 2025.

- In his role as Councillor for Rowallane, he has promoted: the green economy, including renewable energy projects on council-owned land and battery storage initiatives; recovery for businesses affected by flooding; supporting the Local Development Plan 2035; the Dublin–Belfast Economic Corridor; LGBTQ+ community events; advocating for more affordable housing, active travel, public transport, and investment in town centres such as Ballynahinch. 

Tierna Howie - Alliance

- Alliance Councillor for Rowallane Area, including Ballynahinch and Saintfield.

- First elected in 2023.

- Works as a Policy and Public Affairs Coordinator at the Royal College of General Practitioners.

- Cllr Howie has declared that she occasionally helps her brother's coffee business, Kellies Coffee, on an unpaid basis.

- During the 2024–25 council year, Cllr Tierna Howie served as Chair of the Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee, one of the council's principal committees. In the 2026–27 municipal year, she became Chair of the Active and Healthy Communities Committee.

- Cllr Tierna Howie supports refugee integration and backs the council's work towards becoming a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' (Alliance website, 7th October 2025).

- Absent for the vote on making Newry a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' in July 2025. Upheld the decision to make NMDDC a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' in October 2025.

- Cllr Tierna Howie stated that she did not believe there was an immigration crisis in the UK/Ireland at a council meeting on the 'City/Council of Sanctuary' motion on 6th October 2025 (Council minutes).

- Has focused her councillor duties on climate and environmental policy, refugee and asylum seeker integration through the Council of Sanctuary initiative, Special Educational Needs (SEN) support, and community relations.

Jonathan Jackson - DUP

- Councillor for Rowallane, including Crossgar, Saintfield, and Ballynahinch.

- First co-opted to the council in 2022 and elected in May 2023.

- Made a proposal against Newry becoming a 'City of Sanctuary', which was supported by all DUP councillors in attendance (Council minutes 07/07/25).

- Voted 'No' to Newry becoming a 'Sanctuary City' in July 2025 and October 2025.

- Cllr Jackson’s constituency work typically has involved rural roads and infrastructure issues, planning and local development concerns, and community representation in Crossgar, Saintfield, Killyleagh, and surrounding villages.

- Works in electrical contracting.

Callum Bowsie - DUP

- DUP Councillor for Rowallane since 2022 

- Cllr Bowsie has worked on rural and village issues in Crossgar, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, Killyleagh. 

- His focus has also been environmental and heritage concerns (he is involved in Crossgar Historical Society). 

- Voted 'No' to making Newry a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' in July 2025 & October 2025. 

Terry Andrews - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Rowallane Area, including Ballynahinch, Crossgar, and Saintfield.

- Veteran SDLP councillor who was first elected in 2011 (originally on the former Down District Council, then continued onto the new NMDDC after 2015 boundary changes).

- Absent on both occasions for the votes on making Newry a 'City of Sanctuary'. (7/7/25 & 6/10/25)

- Cllr Terry Andrews’ council work has focused on local community issues in Rowallane, representing residents on planning, roads, and local services, and constituency casework and community engagement across Crossgar, Saintfield, and surrounding areas. 

Killian Feehan - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Newry Area.

- He has not won an election in his own right (last local elections were May 2023).

- He was co-opted to represent the Newry DEA on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in November 2023, replacing Michael Savage.

- Works as a Parliamentary/Constituency Assistant to SDLP MLA Justin McNulty.

- His great-grandfather Tommy Markey held a council seat in the 1960s.

- Voted 'Yes' on the motion to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Voted to advance the motion again on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Killian Feehan’s council work has centred around:

1. Newry city regeneration – pushing for investment, economic growth, and tackling dereliction.

2. Canal/infrastructure planning – advocating for protection of the Newry Canal and opposing a fixed bridge design in infrastructure proposals.

3. Housing and services – supporting expansion of social housing and protection of key services like Daisy Hill Hospital.

4. Urban regeneration policy – including motions on derelict buildings and town centre renewal.

Doire Finn - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Newry Area. 

- Cllr Doire Finn is currently serving as Deputy Chairperson of the Newry, Mourne and Down Council (2026–27 civic year).

- Studied International Politics and Conflict Studies at Queen’s University Belfast.

- Works as the Senior Constituency Manager in the office of SDLP MLA Matthew O’Toole.

- Board member of the Hume Foundation.

- Abstained from the vote on 'Sanctuary City' in July 2025. Has since said she supported the council-wide decision to join the network and its stated aims. Cllr Doire Finn is listed among SDLP councillors who supported the council joining the City of Sanctuary Local Authority Network and working toward “Council of Sanctuary” status (Clanrye News, 15/09/25).

- Voted to uphold the motion to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Doire Finn’s visible council work focuses on arts and culture policy, community development, and equality issues (e.g. LGBT+ support and Pride events).Vocal in her support for LGBT+ at council level. 

Aidan Mathers - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Newry Area.

- First elected to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in 2023.

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City/Council of Sanctuary' in July 2025. Confirmed his position in another vote in the council on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Mathers’ council work has been characterised by a focus on municipal and constituency issues, particularly housing, regeneration, transport and parking, environmental maintenance, community safety, and local public services.

- Cllr Aidan Mathers has a low profile as a relatively new councillor.

Cathal King - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Newry.

- Cllr Cathal King was co-opted to the council in December 2022 and was elected in his own right at the 2023 local elections.

- Read Politics at Queen’s University. His published priorities have included community development, rural infrastructure, social justice, and campaigning against Brexit.

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' in July 2025. Confirmed his position in another vote on the issue on 6th October 2025.

- In March 2025, Cllr King was given a two-month suspension from the Council for a prior alcohol-related road traffic conviction in August 2024, which was dealt with at Newry Magistrates Court (Belfast Telegraph, 28th March 2025).

- Cllr King has supported improvements to rural roads, regeneration, local amenities, and community facilities in the Newry and South Armagh area.

- Cllr Cathal King is a Non-Executive Director of Sticky Fingers Arts (The Imaginarium), with Alliance Cllr Helena Young being a Board Member.

Valerie Harte - Sinn Féin

- Councillor for Newry Area, first elected in 2011.

- Elected Chairperson of the council for the 2023–24 civic year.

- Welcomed the motion to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' at the council meeting on 7th July 2025 (Council minutes 07/07/25).

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed her position on this in another vote on 6th October 2025.

- Sinn Féin spokesperson on housing and community issues.

- Called for continued investment in Daisy Hill Hospital and opposed reductions in its services.

- Cllr Harte raised concerns about future cemetery capacity in Newry and suggested the council consider a local crematorium as part of long-term planning.

- Cllr Harte has supported regeneration and business initiatives across the district.

- Was a disability advocate and supported disability charities, which she highlighted during her year as Council Chairperson. 

Geraldine Kearns - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Newry Area.

- Co-opted to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in December 2022, replacing former Sinn Féin councillor Roisin Mulgrew (who will contest the next election with Aontú).

- Successfully elected to the council in the 2023 election in her own right.

- In June 2025, she was elected Deputy Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for the 2025–26 civic year, serving alongside Chairperson Philip Campbell (SF).

- Voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City or Council of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed her position again on 6th October by voting against a motion to stop NMDDC joining.

- Works in education in a local school.

- Since joining Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, Cllr Kearns has focused largely on local issues such as regeneration, community services, health, and civic duties, along with investment through the Belfast Region City Deal.

Cadogan Enright - Independent

- Councillor for Downpatrick and Lecale area.

- First elected in 2006.

- Originally served as a member of the Green Party but later became an independent for 10 years. Joined Alliance in 2022 and was elected as an Alliance councillor in 2023. In 2025, he resigned from Alliance and returned to serving as an independent councillor whilst retaining his council seat.

- Cllr Cadogan is an accountant (FCCA), holder of postgraduate qualifications in building standards and energy management, and has long been involved in environmental advocacy alongside his political work.

- Absent for the vote on 'City of Sanctuary' in July 2025. However, he voted to progress with the designation of NMDDC as a 'Council of Sanctuary' in a council vote on 6th October 2025.

- Some notable recent public positions include campaigning for investment and regeneration in Downpatrick and healthcare campaigns, including support for services at Downe Hospital.

- Cllr Cadogan raised governance concerns over major council projects such as the proposed Mournes Gateway development and the Newry civic centre proposals.

- Campaigns against climate change. Did a series on COP28 (28th annual United Nations (UN) climate meeting) on his website.- Councillor Cadogan's website: https://enright.ie 

Conor Galbraith - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Downpatrick, first elected in 2023.

- Voted 'Yes' to opting Newry in to be a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025. Confirmed his position on this in a council vote to continue with the designation on 6th October 2025 (council minutes).

- Involved in local community development and regeneration issues in Downpatrick.

- Works in youth/community-related work (ROI listed as associated with Patrician Youth Centre / Amplify).

- Introduced a motion to improve Downpatrick’s night-time economy, calling for action to support town centre vibrancy, employment, and safety.

- Cllr Conor Galbraith is a relatively new SDLP councillor with a local-community and regeneration focus.

Aurla King - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Downpatrick.

- Co-opted in September 2023 for Gavin Sharvin. Has not won an election yet in her own right.

- Cllr Aurla King voted to uphold the moves to make Newry, Mourne and Down a 'Council of Sanctuary' on 6th October 2025 (Council minutes vote).

- Works in the education sector (listed as Head of School at South Eastern Regional College in official declarations).

- Involved in local sport and community organisations.

- Cllr Aurla King is a relatively new SDLP councillor (since 2023) with a community/education background, and has a low-profile, locally focused political record so far.

Philip Campbell - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Downpatrick Area.

- Chairperson of the Council in 2025–2026.

- Cllr Philip Campbell voted 'Yes' to 'City of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2026. He reaffirmed his position during a council vote on the same on 6th October 2025.

- Cllr Campbell’s other priorities include youth services and community development, sports and arts infrastructure in Downpatrick, local regeneration and investment, and supporting voluntary/community sector projects.

- Pushed for a multi-sports hub in Downpatrick.

- Cllr Campbell is employed as a Project Manager with Down Community Arts.

Jarlath Tinnelly - Independent

- Independent Councillor for Crotlieve 

- He was first elected in May 2014 and represents the Crotlieve District Electoral Area which includes Warrenpoint.

- Absent for vote on 'Sanctuary City' in July 2025. Voted to continue progressing towards ‘City/Council of Sanctuary’ on October 6th 2025 (Council minutes 6/10/25).

- As of June 2026, he is Vice chairperson of the council’s planning committee and a member of the Economic Regeneration & Tourism committee

- Infrastructure Minister, John O’Dowd appointed Jarlath Tinnelly to serve as Non-Executive Councillor Members on the Board of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority (WHA) in 2024. The appoinement is for a maximum of 4 years. 

Mickey Ruane - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Crotlieve including Warrenpoint, Rostrevor, Burren. 

- Councillor for over 20 years on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (NMDDC).

- Cllr Mickey Ruane oted 'Yes' to Newry being made a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025.

- Painter and decorator by trade.

- Has been active in local regeneration and community projects, including sport and wellbeing facilities in the area.

- Has held positions on a number of important council bodies including the District Development, Finance, Environmental Control, Leisure Services, Rural, and Building Control Committees, as well as serving as a council appointee on the Southern Peace III Partnership and holding senior civic positions, including Mayor of Newry.

- Cllr Ruane has occasionally been involved in community disputes and public criticism around anti-social behaviour and local issues, such as vandalism and crime-related concerns in the Crotlieve area. 

Selina Murphy - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Crotlieve, active in the communities of Burren and Warrenpoint.

- First elected to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in 2023.

- Cllr Selina Murphy voted 'Yes' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' on 7th July 2025.

- Since her election, she has served on council committees, including the Planning Committee, and has spoken on issues such as protecting maternity services at Daisy Hill Hospital.

- Very active on social media in highlighting road issues.

- Cllr Murphy and her husband have run House of Murphy, a local business, for more than 25 years.

Kate Murphy - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Féin Councillor for Crotlieve, first elected in 2023.

- Cllr Kate Murphy has been a long-standing Sinn Féin member and community activist.

- Voted 'YES' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary'.

- Sinn Féin Welfare Rights Advisor.

- Cllr Kate Murphy works in the community and voluntary sector, with a focus on community development, good relations, and community health and wellbeing.

- Active on social media in highlighting local roads issues. 

katemurphysf69@gmail.com 

Declan McAteer - SDLP

- SDLP Councillor for Crotlieve, representing communities including areas such as Warrenpoint, Rostrevor, Burren, and the surrounding district.

- Cllr Declan McAteer has served on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council since 2014.

- Cllr McAteer has been a member of the SDLP since 1986, serving in several internal roles, including the Party Executive and as South Down Constituency Chairman.

- Cllr McAteer works in Countryside Management with DAERA.

- A trustee and governor of Carrick Primary School, Burren, and is involved with Burren GAA Club.

- Voted 'YES' to Sanctuary City on 7th July 2025.

The other councillors representing Crotlieve are: Mark Gibbons (Independent), Jarlath Tinnelly (Independent), Mickey Ruane (Sinn Féin), Kate Murphy (Sinn Féin), and Selina Murphy (Sinn Féin).

Mark Gibbons - Independent

- Independent Councillor for Crotlieve Area, including Warrenpoint, Rostrevor, Burren, and Hilltown.

- First elected in 2023.

- Cllr Gibbons has criticised Newry, Mourne and Down District Council in the past for a lack of transparency, claiming that some political parties arrive at council meetings having already decided how the meeting will proceed ahead of time. (Newry Democrat, 9/07/25)

- Absent for the vote on Sanctuary City (7th July 2025) and has since insisted that he believes residents of Newry should have the opportunity to be consulted before any decision is made.

- Formerly aligned with Sinn Féin before becoming Independent to focus on community-based issues.

- Was against plans for the Mourne 'gondola' project and opposed plans for a wind farm in the Mournes.

Oonagh Hanlon - Sinn Féin

- Sinn Fein councillor for Downpatrick and Lecale Area. She was first elected to the council in 2019.

- onstituency Manager for Cathy Mason MLA (South Down).

- Voted 'YES' to make Newry a 'City of Sanctuary' at a council vote on 7th July 2025.

- Vice Chair of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council's Strategy, Policy and Resources Committee (June 2026).

- Frequently comments on education matters.

- Cllr Hanlon is Sinn Féin's trade union spokesperson in local government.

- Cllr Hanlon has supported the regeneration of Irish Street and Church Street in Downpatrick and campaigning for improvements to Dunleath Park.

- Cllr Oonagh Hanlon is one of the councillors representing the Downpatrick electoral area alongside:

• Philip Campbell (Sinn Féin)
• Cadogan Enright (Independent)
• Conor Galbraith (SDLP)
• Aurla King (co-opted by SDLP)