Never miss a thing from Belfast and beyond - sign up for FREE updates direct to your email inbox Subscribe Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A former Sinn Fein mayor is to replace Máirtín Ó Muilleoir as an MLA for South Belfast , the party announced today.

Sinn Féin says “activists in South Belfast have selected former Mayor of Belfast Cllr Deirdre Hargey for co-option to replace Máirtín Ó Muilleoir in the Assembly”.

In a statement issued by the party on Saturday afternoon, Deirdre Hargey said: “I am proud and honoured to have been selected for co-option to the Assembly to replace Máirtín Ó Muilleoir, who is stepping down as MLA for South Belfast.

“I have worked closely with Máirtín over many years and know the great work that he has done for this constituency and his contribution to building the new Belfast.

“This is a crucial time in politics and just like my term on the Council and as Mayor of Belfast, I will continue to ensure that the people of South Belfast are heard loud and clear.

“Whether it’s standing against Brexit and Tory cuts or striving to make Belfast greener in the battle against climate change; I will be your voice.

“There is no doubt that momentum for Irish Unity has grown rapidly in recent years and I will play my part in building a better future for all.

“We are in a new era of politics and I look forward to providing a strong voice, alongside other Sinn Féin representatives, to ensure the people of South Belfast continue to get the first class representation they deserve.”

The move comes after Mr Ó Muilleoir and Newry and Armagh MLA Megan Fearon announced earlier this month that they are to stand down as MLAs.

Keep up-to-date with all the very latest news, what's on, sport and everything else in Belfast and beyond with the Belfast Live app.

Only select news that interests you by picking the topics you want to display on the app's homepage. Plus, our enhanced user experience includes live blogs, video, interactive maps and slick picture galleries. Download it now and get involved.

Click here to get it from the App Store or here for Google Play .