Darryn Causby, the first Lord Mayor of the new Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon super council, had refused to be photographed with Catherine Seeley last week.

He said that the issue had been one of “protocol”, not personal taste, whilst Councillor Seeley pledged that their relationship will be “businesslike” in the period ahead.

Councillor Causby said: “Have I engaged in conversations and had discussions with Catherine Seeley, and worked with her on issues?

Councillor Catherine Seeley, newly elected Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council.

“Of course I have, like I have done with other members.

“The [photograph] issue the other day – it wasn’t even an issue so I don’t know why it’s been made an issue.

“What happened was, I unveiled a plaque outside of the council chamber officially opening the chamber.

“When (the lord mayor) is present the deputy has no role.

“This is a protocol thing as opposed to a personal thing.”

He went on to add: “Have I been photographed [with] members of Sinn Fein before? Of course I have, and they are on record.

“I think they are making a mountain out of a molehill here.

“If they think the position of lord mayor and deputy lord mayor is akin to that of the first and deputy first minister – if one goes the other one has to go – that is not the case.”