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Date: 05 Jun 2023
Belfast’s new Lord Mayor has pledged to work with all communities to unlock the city’s potential.
Councillor Ryan Murphy was speaking after tonight’s annual general meeting of council at City Hall, where he was installed as the Lord Mayor of Belfast, taking over the chain of office from Councillor Tina Black.
The Sinn Féin councillor hails from the Ligoniel area of the city and has served as a councillor for the Oldpark electoral area of north Belfast since January 2018.
“I want to make our city the best it can be for all our residents and their families – it’s bursting with potential and I want to showcase that strength and diversity during my term,” said Councillor Murphy.
“These are difficult times for workers, local businesses and community organisations, so I will work with all parties to ensure we deliver first-class council services to support everyone in the city, and unlock Belfast’s potential by delivering better health, education and job opportunities.”
Councillor Murphy (28), who is engaged with a young family, said celebrating young people would also be one of his priorities for his term.
“I’m looking forward to working with young people across all communities, celebrating their achievements, encouraging them to speak up and making sure they have a real voice in how Belfast grows and develops.”
Councillor Áine Groogan has also become the new Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast.
A member of the Green party, Councillor Groogan represents the Botanic electoral area, and takes over from outgoing Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Michelle Kelly.
Tonight’s meeting, the first of the new four-year council term, also saw the appointment of new committee chairs, with the meeting streamed live via the council’s website.