Cllr Andrew McMurray reflects on the Local Government Election 2023
Alliance Slieve Croob Councillor Andrew McMurray has reflected on his parties strong performance in the Newry Mourne and Down District local elections.
Alliance now have five councillors in the council, having increased their number from 3 to 5.
As Alliance party leader in the Council chamber, he said: “After what was a long two days at the count held in Newry Leisure Centre, I am very happy to be returned as a Councillor for the Slieve Croob DEA.
“The work that has returned me has been on going over the last number of years. I, and my Alliance colleagues, have worked hard to ensure the views and issues of the constituents within Slieve Croob have been raised within Council, Stormont and wider agencies.
“I thank everyone for their support will endeavour to work as hard as I can to continue this representation.
“As for the campaign itself, many issues were raised on the doors during the canvassing.
“These issue included matters such as traffic speeding and congestion throughout the Slieve Croob DEA; lack of community provision in Dundrum; development of active travel options in Spa; further developing the Green Economy; local businesses; and support for local community groups and sports teams.
“These were all very local issues on the doors that people want addressed and I will lobby and advocate on behalf of them on these issues in the future.
“However, on wider Council matters, such as concerns over the proposed Gondola project in Newcastle were also of a concern to people. This is something that we will continue to oppose going forward into the new term.
The wider political stalemate was also raised. People want their politicians to work with each other, for the benefit of everyone in society.
“This is go to Alliance – Politics that Works. People recognise that when they vote Alliance this is what they will get.
“1183 individuals in Slieve Croob DEA gave me their first preference. Second, and further, preferences came up and down in various forms and values to get me over the line. Thank you all. It’s humbling and an honour in equal measure. I will do my best to represent you over the next 4 years.”
Cllr McMurray added: “Alliance increased its vote not just in my DEA of Slieve Croob, but across the district. We increased the overall vote by 2% as well as councillor representation from 3 to 5 councillors.
“This is absolutely fantastic and will increase our voice and representation on Council.
“This success just wasn’t the work of Councillors and candidates alone. There is an increasing team of volunteers and activists who are getting involved. This is in no small part down to them as well. Alliance South Down MLA Patrick Brown was also a great campaign organiser.
“My political mantra is that politics is the art of the relationship. As such, there are many who’ve lost out on the last seat that I would consider friends… even though we may not be of the same political persuasion.
“I’m thinking of these people now. To stand in an election is one of the, if not the, most public facing things you can do.
“Going forward for public scrutiny and selection is also one of the most important elements in ensuring that democracy is carried out. I have nothing but respect and admiration for anyone that undertakes this.
“It was a long polling day. And it was a long two days of the count.
“So much thanks has to go to all the electoral workers who ensure that it takes place.
“Seeing the ballot boxes spilled open and then being counted is quite special. We could live in a state where this does t take place or the results called into question.
“Also, the 4th Estate report what happens in the run up to, during and after the election allowing the public to form, decide and analyse the political scene is also special and important.
“All politics is local and Council elections are the most local of political arenas.
“As such, very often the other candidates and workers are your neighbours, the people who you watch your children play sport with, who you share worship with, your friends.
“I can only say that that decorum amongst candidates and workers has been great. While we may differ on big issues and, on occasion, small issues, we are all motivated by a desire to help and represent the communities we live in.
“I’m looking forward to continuing the work in this manner.”
The Alliance party Councillors elected to Newry Mourne and Down District Council:
Downpatrick: Cadogan Enright.
Mournes: Jill Truesdale.
Rowallane: David Lee-Surginor, Tierna Kelly.
Slieve Croob: Andrew McMurray.
