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Ex-RUC man to become Sinn Fein MLA

Friday, 20 November 2009

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A former RUC officer and Orangeman is to become a Sinn Fein MLA replacing retiring Assemblyman Francie Brolly.

Coleraine councillor Billy Leonard was picked over Limavady councillor Brenda Chivers to succeed Mr Brolly for the constituency of East Londonderry at a party meeting last night.

The co-option will take effect early in the new year.

Mr Brolly was elected to the Assembly in 2003.

He announced that he planned to retire last month.

Mr Leonard said it was “an honour” to step into Mr Brolly’s shoes.

“I intend to carry on the work that Francie Brolly has been involved in and to represent all the people of this constituency,” he said.

“The north-west region is one of the most deprived areas on this island and it is important that we have strong leadership to ensure East Derry is given its fair share.”

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Francie Brolly is a kind and courteous individual. Mr. Leonard will have large shoes to fill.

Posted by JerryF | 22.11.09, 01:31 GMT

Its good to see individuals having a free will! On the mainland anybody can join any party, any church without been stigmatised! I as a Ulster Prod have read history as Mr Leonard has! I realise that we have another history which is not taught to Unionist kids its called an Irish history! I recommend that Protestant Betsy Gray from Ards could explain a lot to those who have a free and open will as Protestants. Its the true story of a real heroine even to Roman Catholics she is one! Read her story!!!

Posted by Don King | 20.11.09, 19:54 GMT

N.Ireland politics may now have a chance of redeeming itself in Mr Leonard.At last we have someone ready to embrace everyday issues that impact on those that will elect him.Three cheers!

Posted by mrblogsworth | 20.11.09, 15:49 GMT

And while Sinn Fein evolve, unionism stagnates.

Posted by Ulysses32 | 20.11.09, 13:49 GMT

It would be interesting to hear the background on this particular Road to Damascus story. This appears to be quite a transformation, for better or worse.

Posted by Bongo | 20.11.09, 11:56 GMT