Fermanagh and Omagh Distirct Council selected their new Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson for the coming term on Wednesday evening.

Newly elected Sinn Féin Councillor Siobhán Currie has been selected as Chairperson for the new term, taking over the chain from outgoing Chair Howard Thornton.

Councillor Currie will have fellow Erne North Councillor Diana Armstrong of the UUP who replaces John Feely as Vice-Chairperson.

Councillor Currie said she is looking forward to the challenges of the new role and representing everyone across the Council area.

“It is a great honour and a privilege to have been elected as chairperson of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council.

“In the year ahead I will represent everyone across the council area and be a passionate promoter of this district.

“In particular I want to focus on protecting the environment so that locals and the growing number of tourists who visit our beautiful area can enjoy the stunning natural landscapes and scenery just as they are.

“And I want to reiterate our total opposition to fracking anywhere in this council area or throughout the island.

“I also want to promote rights and equality for all, including the Irish language community in the district, and to stand up for the interests of everyone.

“There will no doubt be challenges in the year ahead, particularly as a result of Brexit, but I am looking forward to tackling those challenges and working with all parties on the council for the benefit of everyone in this area.” 

Councillor Armstrong said she is looking forward to carrying on the work of the previous Chair and Vice-Chair and really promoting the District to the wider world as much as possible.

"I'm really looking forward to getting out and representing the District and assisting the Chapirperson as much as possible. Getting out amongst people and really promoting what we have to offer to the world."

"It's quite a statement for Erne North to be represented in the highest office in Council and particulalry wonderful that it is two females who can possibly bring other qulaities to the role."