Limavady Councillor, James McCorkell, has quit the DUP in a shock announcement, choosing instead to remain on in his role as an Independent.
The news comes as the party goes through what many believe is the most difficult period of its history, beginning first with the ousting of its former leader and First Minister Arlene Foster to the brief 21-day tenure of Edwin Poots as the leader, himself forced to resign after his handling of the Irish language legislation.
As of Monday evening, the Causeway Coast & Glens Council website reflects the change of status to Independent of Mr McCorkell, a Councillor who has held his seat for 10 years, both on the old Limavady legacy council and now as part of CCGC.
This now brings the total number of Independent Councillors sitting on CCGC to five.
Despite Sir Jeffery Donaldson having been endorsed as the new DUP leader designate, it’s believed that the turmoil and lack of direction within the party, has led Councillor McCorkell to this decision.
Local DUP party lead, Councillor Aaron Callan, spoke of Mr McCorkell resignation, saying: “We are sorry to see James resign from the Party.
“In correspondence with the Party following his resignation, Cllr McCorkell made clear that he wishes Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP and Gregory Campbell MP well for the future. We look forward to working with him in the future which he has indicated he wishes to do.”
The Ballymoney Bubble has reached out to Councillor McCorkell, but have yet to receive a reply.
