UUP replace councillor who 'lived and worked' in Dublin

By David Hunter

The Ulster Unionist party has replaced an Antrim and Newtownabbey Councillor who was found to be living and working in Dublin. 

Stephen McCarthy will replace Ben Kelso in the Three Mile Water area.

Another UUP representative already resigned from the party over the issue, which came to light last month. 

John Scott claimed his colleague was not fulfilling his duties as a elected representative.

Mr.Kelso was elected to the Council in 2014 and is employed by Barclays bank in Dublin.

However, he hit back at the claims and said he was fully commited to his role in the party and in the council. 

He said: “Now is the right time for me to stand down, and I’m pleased that the party has found a capable replacement in Stephen. 

“My resignation is effective today, however I remain available to provide whatever assistance I can, and allow for an easy transition to Stephen over the coming weeks.”

Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA said: "Firstly I would thank Ben Kelso for his service to the party and his council area over the last three years.  I wish him continued success in his career outside of politics. 

“I am delighted that Stephen has taken up the vacancy.

"He is representative of a new generation of unionists and in the time I have known Stephen I have been struck by his hard work ethic and determination to get results for people.

"I know this is something he will continue in his new role as a councillor.”

Cllr.McCarthy spoke after his appointment saying: "I am really looking forward to getting stuck in, working with my colleague Alderman Fraser Agnew MBE, my other council colleagues and our three MLAs who cover the area to deliver for the people of Three Mile Water and the wider borough.

“I have already been working for the people of Antrim and Newtownabbey for a number of years alongside Steve Aiken and Danny Kinahan and I have built great relationships with groups, organisations and constituents throughout the area."