The role of a councillor: Reflections from Cllr Terry Andrews, Newry Mourne and Down District Council

In this personal piece, Cllr Terry Andrews reflects on the role of a councillor, what inspired him to join local government and what continues to motivate him in the role after 14 years.

From an early age, I was interested in politics and local history. At school, I initiated many debates, some of which got fairly lively, and I always hoped that, at some point, I would step into politics.

In 2011, I was elected to Down District Council. Due to my involvement in the community, working with residents, dealing with their issues, and forging relationships with officials in council and agencies over the years, I was able to hit the ground running when elected.

From election day to my first meeting of the council – meeting officers and getting an insight into the composition of local authorities, the committees and external organisations – I was constantly thinking about where I would fit in and be able to make a contribution. With my interest in community, disabilities, old and young people, and the underprivileged, I wanted to be a team player with a key focus on ‘Putting People First’ – serving the community and making people’s voices heard where it matters most!

Honestly, my first day in council was like starting a new school; going through induction, photographs and taking my seat in the Council Chamber – sitting alongside councillors of many years, all of whom were committed to doing their best for the district, such as Dermot Curran, Robert Burgess, William Dick and many others.

From that day forward and to the present day, I’ve found the role of a councillor to be a constantly evolving one, where not every day is the same. I often ask myself what I can do for the people who elected me and will find myself reaching out to other elected representatives for guidance. I’ve always been a firm believer in working together as a team; by doing so, the winners at the end of the day are the people. To me unity is strength.

Ultimately, the role of a Councillor is a varied one indeed. The wide range of responsibilities includes attending meetings, having input into decisions affecting constituents and residents, ensuring value for the ratepayers, and supporting essential services. However, it also entails ensuring that people’s voices are heard where it matters, advocating for their needs and concerns.

Earlier in this article, I indicated my personal motivation for entering local government was ‘Putting People First’, making my voice heard, and a desire to create positive change on social issues I am passionate about, such as welfare reform, disability, benefits, healthcare, and youth services. These core issues (the bread and butter issues, in my personal opinion) are the cornerstone and building blocks of a Councillor’s role — a role that is constantly changing to meet the evolving needs of our communities.

Also, as a Councillor, I have the privilege of being involved in a wide range of external local government bodies representing the council and my party, the SDLP (Social Democratic and Labour Party). Additionally, over the years, I have been actively involved in fundraising for local charities, who do so much sterling work.

In summary, while it’s hard to put down in words the role of a councillor, I do hope that by sharing my experiences in this article you have gained an insight into this rewarding position and a brief snapshot of what’s involved. To be honest, like a lot of things in life, there can be ups and downs in this role – though, in my own case, there are definitely more ups – and despite its ups and downs, knowing what I do is making a difference for so many continues to motivate and inspire me every day.

As I am entering my 14th year as a councillor, I’ve reflected on how so much has changed in the role. I have met so many along the journey, and they, in their own unique way, have helped to make me the person that I am. Every day is a learning day, and I sincerely hope that sharing my experiences will encourage people to come forward and stand for election, and, in doing so, when elected, be a voice for the people and carry on my mantra of ‘Putting People First’.