Sinn Féin select Martin Hearty as new Slieve Gullion councillor

The former journalist graduated from University Ulster Coleraine in 2008 with a degree in Media Studies and Irish History.

From 2009 to 2014 he worked as a journalist in both a full time and freelance capacity for a number of regional (Q Radio Network, Newry Democrat) and national (Irish News, Irish Times, Irish Examiner, RTE) outlets.

In 2015 he became Sinn Féin's Newry/Armagh Press Officer, working on a number of elections and the Brexit referendum.

Then, in 2017 he became the Communications Manager for Sinn Féin MEP Liadh Ní Riada in Cork.

Following that he joined the Sjnn Féin Assembly team in 2020 where he worked as the party's Policy Advisor on Climate Change, the Environment and Fisheries.

He now works with MLA Nicola Brogan on both the Infrastructure and Communities Committees as well as a number of APGs and Sinn Fein Working Groups.

Speaking after being selected at a selection convention in South Armagh the new councillor said: “I am proud and honoured to have been selected for co-option to Newry Mourne & Down Council to replace Aoife Finnegan, who has taken on the role of MLA for Newry & Armagh.

"I have worked closely with Aoife over many years and know the great work she has done for the people of Crossmaglen and wider area.

"I will endeavour to ensure that service to the people continues and that their voices are heard."

Congratulating Martin on his selection, Newry & Armagh MLA Aoife Finnegan said that she looked forward to working with him to deliver on the issues that mattered to local families and communities.

She said: “Martin will be a fantastic representative for this area. Along with all our team of Sinn Féin representatives, we will work together to deliver on the issues that matter to our families, workers and communities."

Ms Finnegan was co-opted as an MLA for Newry and Armagh after her predecessor, Conor Murphy, was elected to the Seanad.