With a particular passion for integrated education, community engagement and a desire to drive Bangor Central forward, Karen – founder of the regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre for Northern Ireland – said she was ‘honoured’ to take over the role from Stuart, who is standing down due to personal reasons.
Councillor Karen Douglas said: “It is an honour to follow in the footsteps of Stuart Anderson. Since 2014 he has been a fantastic advocate for the Bangor Central area and I have been inspired by his hard work and dedication.
“I’m also thrilled to be joining the strong, cohesive Ards and North Down Alliance team, so often the voice of reason among others more concerned with playing party politics than delivering what’s right for everyone.
“A long-time resident of Bangor, I’m mindful of the challenges in some areas that will require a steady and robust response and I’m not afraid of the challenge. Over the next few weeks and months I’m looking forward to getting out and meeting as many constituents and community groups as possible, hearing directly what the key issues are that matter to them.
“It certainly is an exciting time to be part of Alliance. My parents were mixed religion and understanding tolerance from an early age has left me extremely committed and passionate when it comes to Alliance and promoting the Party’s core values.
“Alliance is the only Party determined to create a new shared society, based on mutual respect, free from sectarianism and inclusive to all. Alliance is the Party for everyone and I intend to spend the next few years taking this message directly to people across Bangor Central.”