Political award for MLA
Thursday, 16 October 2008
Newry and Armagh UUP MLA Danny Kennedy with his Slugger O’Toole award.
NEWRY and Armagh MLA Danny Kennedy has received a Slugger O'Toole Political Award at a ceremony in Belfast.
Councillor Kennedy received the award for 'Best Stormont Committee Chair' through his position as Chairman of the OFMDFM Committee.
Commenting on the award, Ulster Unionist Party leader Sir Reg Empey said: "I would like to extend my congratulations to Danny, and say that he is most deserving of this award.
“Through his work in this committee he has acted in a fair, reasonable, honest and meticulous manner and he deserves credit for his hard-work in relation to his efforts dealing with child poverty.
“Danny's commitment to fairness in our society was certainly demonstrated in the manner in which he led the inquiry on child poverty. Very much in the mould of his political hero, RA Butler, he passionately believes that a society must be measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members.
“The report of the inquiry on child poverty established an important benchmark for the Assembly and Executive. Amidst all of the cynicism surrounding politics it is a reminder that elected representatives should promote the common good of our entire society."
Mr Kennedy said he was "delighted and very honoured" to receive the inaugral award and he paid tribute to the members of the OFMDFM Committee for all their help and co-operation, especually in relation to the report on Child Poverty which he said had been very important and insightful.
“Mr Kennedy also paid tribute to the Clerk and officials who service the Committee for all their dedication and hard work behind the scenes.
