Derry's newest councillor - Amanda Clarke of Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin has selected Amanda Clarke as its new Ballyarnett councillor on Derry City and Strabane District Council.

Ms Clarke will be co-opted on to Council to replace former councillor, John McGowan, who stepped down last week citing "personal commitments". 

Ms Clarke said it was an "honour and a privilege" to be selected to represent the people of Ballyarnett on the local council. 
 

Derry Sinn Féin councillor resigns seat

Ballyarnett councillor John McGowan steps down from Derry City and Strabane District Council

She added: "I want to pay tribute to John McGowan as he steps down from the council and I look forward to continuing on the hard work he has done for this community. 
 
“As an incoming local representative, I am determined to work together to lead positive change for every single person in this area, and to deliver first-class council services for ratepayers.”

Amanda Clarke is married to Colm, and is mother to Aoife, Ruaidhri, Tom and the late Emmet, and granny to Arthur.

She said: "I have a wealth of knowledge across health and social care, disability services and neighbourhood regeneration.

"It is my determination to deliver for workers and families on the issues that matter to them. I look forward to serving the people of the greater Galliagh area and working together to build on an already thriving community.

"I will, along with my party colleagues, continue to build momentum towards re-unification and an Ireland of equals."

Her co-option to Derry City and Strabane District Council is now subject to ratification by Sinn Féin's Ard Chomhairle.