Carrickfergus councillors take top roles on Mid and East Antrim Council

DUP Councillor Peter Johnston has been elected as Mayor with Ulster Unionist Cllr Andrew Wilson, Deputy Mayor.

The Carrickfergus duo took up their positions at the AGM of the borough council on Monday afternoon.

Both represent Knockagh District Electoral Area .

Cllr Johnston was first elected to Mid and East Antrim in October 2018 after receiving 1,106 first preference votes during a by-election for the seat left vacant following the death of Independent Cllr Jim Brown.

Mr Johnston said: “It is a great honour for me to occupy the privileged position of Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, and I thank the outgoing Mayor, Cllr Maureen Morrow, for carrying out her duties so capably.

“We are living through unprecedented challenges caused by the coronavirus pandemic, and our community has shown great strength in helping others, particularly the vulnerable in our society.

“Council has demonstrated exceptional leadership throughout this crisis and is working closely with our businesses to chart a pathway to economic recovery post-Covid, and I am committed to supporting those efforts.

“I look forward to moving together with the Deputy Mayor, Cllr Wilson, council officers, elected members and citizens over the coming year towards a safe, strong and sustainable Mid and East Antrim.”

Cllr Wilson thanked the outgoing Mayor and Deputy Mayor  for their contributions.

“I am humbled and delighted to be given the opportunity to work alongside the Mayor and all who live, work and invest in our borough,” said Cllr Wilson.

“There is no doubt that these are difficult times for so many but by taking a partnership approach throughout the coming months we will create a better future for all.

“I particularly look forward to next May for the centenary of Northern Ireland and the celebrations that will take place in the borough.

“I have also had initial discussions with the Mayor around how we can formally recognise the work of the NHS and all key workers in our borough during the pandemic.”

The first monthly meeting of the council under the direction of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor will also take place virtually on Monday, June 8.

The DUP has not held the top slot since Larne Lough  Alderman Paul Reid became mayor in 2017.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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