Councillor Muir was speaking during his installation dinner on Thursday night, attended by North Down Councillors, community representatives and Alliance Party members – including guest speakers Party Leader David Ford MLA and East Belfast MP Naomi Long, with entertainment from Priory Integrated College, Holywood, choir.
He said: “I am determined to ensure my year is characterised by change, progress and delivering an enduring positive legacy for everyone. I dream of a shared, integrated and accepting society, why not?”
Councillor Muir spoke about his background with a proud Orange woman as his Grandmother, renowned Trade Unionist as his Great Grandfather and a late Grandfather from a devout but yet ecumenical Catholic background.
“As a Mayor from working class mixed marriage minority background I aim to show that politics can deliver for everyone.
“In a few days North Down Borough Council will celebrate its 40th anniversary, October 1. We have much to be proud of, including the ability to provide a forum for democratic debate when violence ensued outside, the provision of a world class Marina, state of the art recycling centre and now the amazing Aurora Aquatic and Leisure complex.
“North Down Borough Council has consistently delivered good value for money to local ratepayers through a coherent partnership based power sharing approach. New North Down and Ards Council will provide us with a great opportunity to expand, reach out and improve how services are delivered locally. Conscious Community Planning power will soon be devolved and keen to make a positive difference as the penultimate Mayor of North Down I have adopted Working as One as the theme for my year.
Having now been in post for over three months, Mayor Muir also shared some of the lighter moments of the role so far, including the ‘armless fun’ of being fed to hungry sharks by Council officers in the new Aurora pool to promote the screening of Jaws.
He concluded: “Whether it be building one community or promoting sport or growing the economy through a focus on skills and creativity I have already delivered a number of initiatives in each area and look forward to delivering more.”