Sinn Fein announce replacement MLA for scandal-hit McKay

Mr McKay stood down and apologised last week for his “inappropriate” conduct after it was revealed that he had secretly been in contact via Twitter with loyalist campaigner Jamie Bryson before his appearance as a witness at Stormont’s Nama inquiry last year – an inquiry which Mr McKay was himself leading.

After his departure, Sinn Fein announced on Wednesday said that Philip McGuigan would be co-opted to replace him in his North Antrim seat.

Caral Ni Chuilin, a former IRA bomber-turned-politician, who is currently Sinn Fein’s chief whip, said in a statement: “Following consultation with Sinn Féin activists in North Antrim, the Sinn Fein Ard Chomhairle has approved the selection of Philip McGuigan for co-option as the new MLA for the constituency.

“Philip is an excellent public representative and has served as a councillor in the area since 2001 and was an MLA for North Antrim from 2003 to 2007.

“I have no doubt that with Philip’s return to the Assembly will continue to provide first class representation to the people of North Antrim.

“I wish him well and look forward to working alongside him in the Assembly.”

According to a report by the BBC, Mr McKay had formely been one of Mr McGuigan’s advisors.

He is currently a councillor for the Ballymoney area of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.