Tierney picks up SDLP assembly whip

John Tierney has been appointed to the position of Chief Whip within the SDLP assembly group replacing MP Eddie McGrady who had occupied the prestigious position since the formation of Northern Ireland’s power sharing executive.

Mr Tierney, who had been Deputy Whip took up his new position on Tuesday January 22.

Speaking about his appointment Mr Tierney said: “I am deeply honoured to have been appointed to the position of Whip of the Assembly Group. SDLP MP Eddie McGrady carried out this role over the last number of years and during that time I was privileged to work with him as Deputy Whip. I look forward to taking up this challenge and working with other parties to co-ordinate the business of the Assembly and ensure the smooth running of Assembly matters.”

Mr McGrady, MP for South Down still maintains his position of Chief Whip of the party, a position he has occupied since 1979. He is also still the party’s Parliamentary Chief Whip in Westminster.

Further changes have also been announced within the SDLP structure. Patricia Lewsley has been appointed Vice Chair of the Environment Committee, Annie Courtney will now become a member of the Health Committee and Alban Maginness has been appointed to the Committee of the Regions. (AMcE)