Mid-Ulster District Council have appointed a new Chair and Deputy Chair, namely Sinn Féin’s Deirdre Varsani, and the Democratic Unionist Party’s Eva Cahoon.
The nomination of new chairs and vice-chairs is always a warm occasion and Monday night’s proceedings were particularly poignant.
Outgoing Chair, Councillor Frances Burton (DUP) mentioned health issues which proved challenging at one stage as she was endeavouring to fulfil her duties, while there was a moving – and at times tearful – address from Deputy Chair, Councillor Denise Johnston (SDLP), who recalled the heartache of losing her 18-year-old son Oisín on September 25, 2025.
Movingly, Councillor Johnston revealed that Councillor Burton proved so supportive and compassionate, following the heartbreaking loss of her beloved son, that she now regards the outgoing Chair as a personal friend.
As she took over as Cathaoirleach (Chairperson), fluent Irish speaker, Councillor Varsani delivered her opening speech bilingually, and explained that the theme of her year in office would be “le chéile” (together), pledging to represent every corner of the district to the best of her ability.
She summed up the spirit of togetherness which she wishes to promote through the following Irish saying: “Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine” (we live in each other’s shelter).
As a young woman from a unionist background, Councillor Cahoon expressed the hope that her leadership as Vice Chair would inspire other young women from her community to become involved in local politics.
Other nominations were as follows:
Chair and Deputy Chair of Audit committee, Councillor Karol McQuade (SDLP) and Brian McGuigan (SF).
Chair and Deputy Chair of Development committee, Councillor Córa Corry (SF) and Councillor Barry Monteith (Independent).
Chair and Deputy Chair of Environment committee, Councillor Donna Mullin (SF) and Kevin McElvogue (Independent).
Chair and Deputy Chair of Planning committee, Councillor Gavin Bell (SF) and Councillor Denise Johnston (SDLP).
Chair and Deputy Chair of Policy and Resources committee, Councillor Seán McPeake (SF) and Councillor Wesley Brown (DUP).
