‘By working together, we can beat Covid-19’, says new Mayor Brian Tierney

The SDLP’s Brian Tierney is to be the next Mayor of Derry and Strabane District Council.

The Ballyarnett councillor, who has been a public representative since 2014, played a key role in party leader Colum Eastwood’s election as Foyle MP at the end of last year.

He says one of his priorities in the year ahead will be to bring people together again as the Covid-19 crisis hopefully lessens.

He also aims to promote the “incredible” work of front line workers and volunteers during the global pandemic.

Councillor Tierney, a father of four, says it will be an “immense honour” to represent his home town as its First Citizen.

“I am so proud of Derry and Strabane, the people that live here and all that we’ve achieved together,” he says.

“I know the potential that people here have and I’m determined to work constructively with all parties and all our partners to deliver new opportunities and transform our city.

“There isn’t a single family, business or community in our district that isn’t suffering as a result of the coronavirus crisis. I am determined to show the people of Derry and Strabane that civic leaders are here for them.

“We may be distant but we are not divided. There are so many people putting themselves on the front line of this crisis, dedicated health care staff, volunteers bringing food to those in need, our tireless care home workers. I want to lift them up and show the best of our district.

“Every Mayor says that they want to bring people together. I can’t remember a time when that challenge was so literal.

“By working together, we can beat this virus and we will see our friends and family again. My priority is making sure that can happen as soon and as safely as possible.”

Councillor Tierney says that, while people prepare to recover from this crisis, we “need to reimagine our city and district, putting people and their needs at the heart of decision making”.

“That means making our public spaces more accessible, giving people the power to choose an active, clean and healthy life.

“It also means investing in skills to upgrade the opportunities our citizens will have in a changing economy.

“The year ahead will be one of the most challenging we’ve ever experienced. But, together, we can help each other and transform our communities for the better.”

The annual general meeting of Derry and Strabane Council is scheduled to take place on Monday, June 1.