Cllr Sean Neeson said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on Carrickfergus Council. It has been an honour to have served my constituents for so long. It has been a very rewarding experience and I am glad to see the progress that has been made in politics over the past four decades.
“During my 36 years as a Councillor, I have made many friends and I would like to thank all those who have worked with me down the years.
“I have been extremely proud to have represented Alliance on the Council where I have worked to progress a shared future.
“I hope that I will be remembered as a good constituency worker.”
Alliance Leader David Ford MLA said: “Sean has been one of the best representatives on Carrickfergus Council for well over thirty years. I would like to thank him for his outstanding work in Carrickfergus and his contribution to the wider community in Northern Ireland.
“He has played such a major role in the Alliance Party and politics in general since the 1970s. He has been one of the most positive voices for peace, particularly during the darkest days of the Troubles.
Alliance East Antrim MLA Stewart Dickson said: “Sean has been an outstanding and dedicated public servant for over thirty years.
“I have had the great privilege of serving with him on the Council since we were both elected in 1977 and I would like to thank him for all the work he has done over the years.
“His vast experience will be greatly missed on the Council. He played a critical role in many of the developments in Carrickfergus since he was first elected in 1977 and has always worked in the best interests of the whole community.”