Councillor Tracy Kelly has officially taken office as the new Lord Mayor of Belfast, following tonight's annual general meeting of the council at City Hall.

Councillor Kelly, a DUP representative for the Botanic area since May 2019, becomes the first female DUP councillor to assume the prestigious role, succeeding Councillor Micky Murray.

In her inaugural address, Lord Mayor Kelly outlined her key priority: "My priority as Lord Mayor is to make sure that everyone in Belfast feels part of the changes that are happening in our city and can find a place for themselves within them – that no-one is left behind." She emphasised the city's progress and the importance of ensuring all residents can fulfil their potential.

The 47-year-old, who has a background in community development, also highlighted her commitment to celebrating projects and people working towards a safe, fair, welcoming, and inclusive Belfast. A key goal during her term will be to support young people not in employment, education, or training (NEET).

"Belfast is already leading the way when it comes to innovation and tech, but it's vital that we create and develop a pipeline to connect more of our young people to the jobs that exist in these, and other, emerging areas, both now and in the future," Councillor Kelly stated. She expressed her desire to break down barriers to accessing education and training, encouraging every young person to reach their full potential.

"I will be a Lord Mayor who listens to all those in the community, and I'm looking forward to representing those voices during my year in office," she affirmed.

In other appointments made at tonight's meeting, Councillor Paul Doherty of the SDLP, representing the Black Mountain electoral area, was installed as the new Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, taking over from Councillor Andrew McCormick. New committee chairs were also appointed, with the proceedings streamed live via the council's website.