Sinn Féin MLA Declan Kearney has hailed a resurfacing scheme in Beechmount Park, Randalstown as a win for residents’ persistence, but has expressed disappointment that this good news story has been the subject of petty, disingenuous claims from another party.
The South Antrim MLA said:
“It was disappointing to read comments from both a former Antrim Town councillor, and a sitting Dunsilly councillor, concerning the resurfacing scheme of works recently started in Beechmount Park, Randalstown.
“To borrow a term used in their comments, the only ‘sour note’ introduced, to what I consider is a good news story for the residents of Beechmount Park, was the competing claims narrative these political opponents chose to peddle.
“As a South Antrim MLA, and a Minister in our power sharing government, I take my political leadership responsibilities seriously. I am charged with giving representation to the concerns and priorities of constituents from right across South Antrim. I advocate and campaign on their behalf without fear or favour. I have used my mandate and influence effectively to stand up for constituents regardless of their background or belief.
“My record of constituency work in Randalstown speaks for itself; a fact well known by particular critics in this instance.
“At any given time, other political representatives may be engaged separately on the same issues. I would not seek to belittle their efforts. What really matters to me is that positive outcomes are achieved, and the lives of people are improved.
“So, if collective efforts result in outcomes which benefit local constituents that is to be welcomed. Mature political representation is not about the pursuit of personal credit or patronage. That is why these comments are so silly and small minded.
“In this instance I, once more, publicly congratulate the residents of Beechmount Park whose persistence in pursuing political representation has delivered a long awaited and deserved outcome. The local residents are the winners. They deserve the credit.”
