Sinn Fein co-opt Castlewellan man in Slieve Croob district

Sinn Fein co-opt Castlewellan man in Slieve Croob district

24 January 2018

SINN Fein has selected a former republican prisoner to replace Slieve Croob councillor Pól Ó Gribín on Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Castlewellan man John Rice (57) has been co-opted to replace Mr Ó Gribín who will formally step down from the local authority next week.

Mr Rice is a keen cyclist and former St John’s GAC player. The grandfather-of-three and father-of-one is a previous chairman of South Down Sinn Féin.

Mr Rice said it was an “honour” to replace Mr Ó Gribín and was in no doubt about the challenge that lies ahead.

He continued: “I will build on the solid foundations that have been laid down by Pól who has served the people of Newry, Mourne and Down well. This is a brilliant time to be a republican representative and I will do my best to be a voice for the rural communities.”

Mr Rice added: “Working as part of a great Sinn Féin team I will continue to fight for better infrastructure for country areas, improved services for young and old people and will do my best to support farming families.”