Newry City councillor Doire Finn has been appointed as Deputy Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council for 2026/27. The Newry representative was nominated by her fellow SDLP councillors to take up the position as second in command to newly elected Chairperson Glyn Hanna.
Councillor Finn said she intends to use the role to champion local communities, support the arts and cultural sector and highlight the best of the Newry, Mourne and Down district.
Councillor Doire Finn said: "It is an incredible honour to be nominated as Deputy Mayor of Newry, Mourne and Down. Growing up here, you quickly learn the importance of community, looking out for one another and taking pride in where you come from, and those are values that have stayed with me throughout my time in public life. I want to thank my family, partner, friends and SDLP colleagues for their support and for putting their faith in me in taking on this role."
Cllr Finn added that since her election to Council she had sought to use her position to stand up for local people on issues that matter to communities, from backing local businesses and community groups to promoting opportunities for young people.
She said: "Our district has an incredible creative and community spirit. From local artists and musicians to volunteers and grassroots organisations, there are so many people giving their time and talent, working tirelessly to make this place better every day. As Deputy Mayor, I want to use this role to champion those people and ensure their contribution gets the recognition it deserves.
"I am also determined to continue speaking up for young people and ensuring they feel supported and optimistic about building a future for themselves here at home. Too many people still feel they have to leave to build a career or afford a future, and I want to keep pushing for investment, quality jobs and thriving communities where people can put down roots.
"It will be a privilege to represent Newry, Mourne and Down and to celebrate everything that makes this district such a special place to live, work and visit."


