Northern Ireland

New members to be co-opted onto Derry and Strabane council

Sinn Féin has selected Amanda Clarke to replace businessman, John McGowan on Derry city and Strabane district council. Picture by Sinn Féin
Sinn Féin has selected Amanda Clarke to replace businessman, John McGowan on Derry city and Strabane district council. Picture by Sinn Féin

Sinn Féin and the Ulster Unionist Party in Derry have unveiled their replacements for departing council members, John McGowan and Ryan McCreadie.

Amanda Clarke was selected by Sinn Féin to replace Mr McGowan who announced his departure from the council earlier this month. Businessman, Mr McGowan cited “personal commitments” for his decision to resign as councillor for the Ballyarnett district electoral area.

Ms Clarke said she was delighted to be chosen to replace Mr McGowan. The Derry woman said she was determined to lead “positive change” for everyone living in the area.

The Ulster Unionist Party has also confirmed former local election candidate, Janice Montgomery as replacement for Mr McCreadie. Ms Montgomery, who stood for the party in last May’s council elections, is expected to be co-opted onto Derry and Strabane council later this month.

Former Ulster Unionist local government election candidate, Janice Montgomery has been selected to replace the party's Ryan McCreadie on Derry city and Strabane district council. Picture by Ulster Unionist Party.
Former Ulster Unionist local government election candidate, Janice Montgomery has been selected to replace the party's Ryan McCreadie on Derry city and Strabane district council. Picture by Ulster Unionist Party.


Mr McCreadie - who joined the UUP after quitting the DUP in 2021 - cited family and personal reasons for resigning his seat on the council.