Artist sought for Belfast City Hall sculptures of Mary Ann McCracken and Winifred Carney, two historic Irish nationalist social campaigners

Statues of Mary Ann McCracken and Winifred Carney are being planned for the front lawn areas of City Hall, the council say.

Mary Ann McCracken, who died in 1866 at the age of 96, was best known as an abolitionist who fought for the rights of women, championed the poor and was associated with the United Irishmen movement.

Winifred Carney, who died in 1943 at the age of 55, is remembered as a suffragist, trade unionist, and Irish independence activist.

The council say the permanent, life-size sculptures should be in place by 2024, subject to planning permission for the final designs and locations.

The Lord Mayor, Sinn Fein councillor Christina Black, said: “Mary Ann McCracken and Winifred Carney are key figures in Belfast’s history, so it is fitting that they will be permanently remembered through statues alongside other notable figures from the city’s past in the front lawn areas of City Hall.

“The decision to commission these statues is part of a process which began in 2012 to help reflect the history, heritage and diversity of the city and its people.”

A council spokesperson added: “The procurement of the artist is a two-stage process, with initial expressions of interest due by 11 November 2022.

“The final designs and locations of both statues will require planning permission before they are installed. It is anticipated that they will be in place by 2024.

“Artists interested in finding out more should visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk.”