Alderman Maurice Devenney has joined the Western Education and Library Board and Councillor Michael James (Mick) Murphy has been appointed to the Southern Education and Library Board as local council nominees.
Alderman Devenney lives in Newbuildings, Co Londonderry and has a farming background. He is a member of the Democratic Unionist Party and is currently the Assistant Manager in the DUP Assembly Office. He has been a member of Derry City Council since 2005. He is currently a Trustee of the Newbuildings Community Association.
Councillor Murphy lives in Rostrevor, Newry. He is a retired publican and at present sits on the Board of Governors of St Bronagh’s Primary School in Rostrevor. Councillor Murphy is a member of Sinn Feín and a member of Newry and Mourne Council since 1996.
Notes to Editors:
- The five Education and Library Boards are statutory bodies which perform a wide range of functions in the funding and delivery of local education, youth and library services for their respective areas.
- Board members are appointed by the Education Minister in accordance with Schedule 2 of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986.
- The Board members listed are replacement Council nominees.
- The term of appointment is normally four years, however, the tenure this time will be affected by structural changes flowing from the Review of Public Administration and the creation of the new Education and Skills Authority (ESA).
- The Board members listed do not receive annual remuneration in respect of their appointment, although travelling & subsistence allowance and financial loss allowance are awarded.
- These appointments have been made in accordance with the OCPA NI Code of Practice. All appointments are made on merit and political activity plays no part in the selection process. However, in accordance with the original Nolan recommendations, there is a requirement for the political activity of appointees (if any declared) to be published.
- Alderman Devenney has declared that he obtained office as a District Councillor, acted as a political agent and canvassed on behalf of a political party, or helped at elections.
- Councillor Murphy has declared that he obtained office as a District Councillor, was a Sinn Feín MLA from 1998 to 2002, he has spoken on behalf of a political party or candidate, acted as a political agent, held office such as Chair, Treasurer or Secretary of a local branch of a political party and canvassed on behalf of a political party, or helped at elections.
- Media queries to the Department of Education Press Office on 028 9127 9701. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07669 715 440 and your call will be returned.
