Sinn Féin MLAs Megan Fearon and Máirtín Ó Muilleoir have announced they will step down from the Assembly. 

Megan Fearon said: 

“After seven years I have decided to step down as an MLA for Newry and Armagh. 

“Representing Sinn Féin and the people of South Armagh has been an honour and one that I never took lightly. 

“I want to thank every single activist and voter for their support and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve 

“It’s been a pleasure to be part of the Sinn Féin team, both locally and nationally both as an MLA and on the Executive. I want to wish my colleagues well in the future and thank them for their friendship. 

“Over the years this role has allowed me to meet the most inspiring people, make friends for life and have many unforgettable experiences. 

“Working towards a new Ireland based on fairness and equality is a huge part of who I am. I will always be an activist, but my time in electoral politics has ended. 

“I am excited to begin a new chapter in life and I want to thank everyone who has been part of this journey.” 

Máirtín Ó Muilleoir said: 

“It has been the greatest privilege of my life to represent the people of South and West Belfast for Sinn Féin in both City Hall and Stormont. 

“But it is now time for me to hand over to a representative of a newer generation of republican activists.

“I want to thank all of those who have given me their support and assure them that I will remain a determined advocate of a better Belfast and a new and united Ireland.”