Declan Mc Aleer selected to replace Pat Doherty MP as MLA for West Tyrone

Sinn Féin has selected dedicated Omagh District Councillor Declan Mc Aleer to replace Pat Doherty MP in the Assembly in line with the parties move to end MP/MLA dual mandates. 

After receiving the endorsement of Sinn Féin members from throughout West Tyrone at a selection convention held at the Mellon Country Inn on Monday night Declan Mc Aleer said,

“I am deeply humbled by the vote of confidence given to me by party members here tonight and deeply honoured by the faith that has been placed in me to take on such a major mantle of responsibility in replacing Pat in his role as MLA for the people of this constituency. 

“It will be a privilege to join with Barry Mc Elduff and Michaela Boyle in working for and representing the people of this constituency at Assembly level.

“Pat’s being freed up from Assembly duties will not only allow for a strengthened dynamic to be brought to our work as a team in this constituency but will also allow Pat, and our other MPs, to increase lobbying activity in both Britain and elsewhere with respect to policy areas that are particularly relevant to constituents here and also, of course, with respect to the promotion of the case for Irish unity.

Congratulating Declan Mc Aleer on his selection Pat Doherty MP said,

“Declan has been a key driver in progressing projects of strategic importance for the West Tyrone as well as having a long track-record in dealing with the vast array of bread and butter issues on which constituents seek representation on a day and daily basis.

 “Declan is one of the most able, dedicated and hardworking people you will ever come across and I have no doubt that he will bring the same qualities to his role as an MLA, as he has done with every other role that he has taken on in his life.

Comhghairdeas Declan!”

Brief Bio:

v     Declan was elected to Omagh District council in 2005. 

v     Has held position of Council Chair

v     Declan is a Lecturer in Psychology and has taught in Omagh College and at Dean Maguirc College. 

v     He sits on the board of Governors of three local schools and re-appointed as member of the Western Education and Library Board.

v     Was among Sinn Féin West Tyrone panel of candidates in last year’s Assembly Election and came close to securing 4^th seat for party in constituency