Raymond McCartney standing down as MLA for Foyle

Sinn Féin MLA Raymond McCartney has announced he is standing down from the Assembly.

Mr McCartney has represented the Foyle constituency for the past 15 years.

He said now is the right time to step aside.

“It has been an honour and a privilege to represent the people of Foyle as an MLA for Sinn Féin,” Mr McCartney said.

“Derry is a city in transition and huge progress has been made in recent years and I have no doubt that will continue in the time ahead in order to reach its full potential.

“I want to thank everyone who has supported me and who I have worked with over the years and want to wish my successor well for the future.”

Sinn Féin’s Stormont leader Michelle O’Neill paid tribute to Mr McCartney.

“Raymond’s commitment and courage shine through in everything he did and his professionalism, wisdom and good humour earned him respect from across the political spectrum,” she said.

“I want to wish Raymond, his wife, Rose, and his family all the best for the future and I have no doubt he will continue to be on hand with wise counsel when required.”