Alderman Richard Brown Stewart Reflects On Year As Deputy Mayor Ahead of End Of Term

As his term as Deputy Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens comes to an end tomorrow, Alderman Richard Brown Stewart has been reflecting on what he describes as one of the busiest, most challenging and rewarding years of his life.

The past 12 months have been marked by significant milestones both in public office and at home. On the very same day he was appointed Deputy Mayor, his family welcomed their third daughter, bringing an immediate balancing act between civic responsibilities and family life.

Since then, Alderman Brown Stewart has combined council engagements, civic duties and a growing volume of constituency casework with the demands of raising a young family.

Reflecting on the year, he said family life quickly became a whirlwind of school runs, bottles, nappies and sleepless nights, while continuing to represent residents across the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough.

Alongside his role as Deputy Mayor, he was also studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare and Development, which he successfully completed at Christmas.

Looking back, he said it had been one of the most demanding years of his life, but also one of the most fulfilling.

Alderman Brown Stewart paid tribute to the family, friends and colleagues who supported him throughout the year, thanking his husband Niall, his parents, his sister Elaine, party colleagues and close friends who helped the family navigate an exceptionally busy period.

He said their support had made it possible to fulfil both his public duties and family commitments, adding that he would never forget the encouragement and help they provided throughout the year.

As he prepares to step down from the role tomorrow, Alderman Stewart said he felt incredibly fortunate to have served the borough while also watching his family grow.

The annual meeting of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council will take place on Monday evening, when councillors are expected to formally appoint Councillor Dawn Huggins as the new Mayor of the Borough. The position of Deputy Mayor is set to be held by the Ulster Unionist Party for the incoming civic year.

Describing the experience as one he will carry with him forever, Alderman Brown Stewart said the past year had been both a privilege and a blessing.

"It’s honestly been one of the busiest, most challenging, but also most rewarding years of my life," he said.

"I feel incredibly lucky and truly blessed to have had the opportunity to serve as Deputy Mayor while also watching our family grow. It’s a year I will carry with me forever."