The Castlwellan and Kilcoo Branch of the SDLP has welcomed in a new chairperson.
Local man Hugh Gallagher said he was honoured to take over from the ‘legendary John Duggan.’ He said: “John was taking a well-earned rest from the post after putting his heart and soul into delivering for the people of Castlewellan to whom he remains committed. John’s are big shoes to fill and I am committed to continuing the incredibly positive reputation of the SDLP in this area.”
Mr Gallagher began his first meeting with a criticism of the reduction in funding for turning on the Christmas lights. Following a briefing from local community groups, he said: “We all know times are hard but the Council needs to step up its support of community groups who are working hard to deliver much needed services to our towns and villages. By reducing funding – as they have done for the Christmas lights in Castlewellan – not only are they failing to invest in the town but this serves to demotivate community groups and their activity instead of encouraging it. This has always been a cross-community venture and it would be a real concern in this traditional celebration is threatened.”
Mr Gallagher also praised the response of DRD lighting Division for its swift response to an issue on Clarment Avenue. He said: “While these lights have been out for a number of months, as soon as they were brought to the attention of local Councillor Laura Devlin, she was able to make the case for a speedy resolution. It is vitally important that people feel safe in and around their own homes and adequate lighting is a key element of that.”
He added: “It is also important to be aware of the needs of our elderly neighbours during the winter. Castlewellan is a strong community but people can be forgotten, so I would urge people to give a thought to elderly people who may be feeling very isolated during the winter months.”
Referring to reductions in funding in the health service, Mr Gallagher said: “Given the lengthy stalemate in Stormont, I have great concern about the continued reduction of funding for elderly care within hospitals and the community especially coming into the winter. More needs to be done to enable effective care and support.”
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