Tribute paid to former SDLP councillor from County Derry following his passing

Tribute has been paid to a former SDLP councillor from County Derry who passed away.

Gerald (Gerry) McLaughlin died peacefully at his home in Coleraine yesterday (Tuesday, September 10).

Mr McLaughlin was a councillor on the former Coleraine Borough Council serving the people of the town for 16 years.

He was first elected in 1997 and held his seat comfortably at four different elections.

In 2013, the father-of-11 retired from politics.

SDLP Chairperson Daniel McCrossan has paid tribute to Mr McLaughlin following his passing.

“Our party is deeply saddened by the passing of Gerry McLaughlin who served as an SDLP councillor with distinction in the Coleraine area for many years. Throughout his long service he won respect and admiration from right across the political divide and was known for his even temper and providing wise council to SDLP colleagues and fellow councillors alike,” Mr McCrossan said.

“I’d like to offer sincere condolences to Gerry’s wife Bernadette, children Donna, Cathy, Gerry, Colette, Dominic, Gemma, Stephanie, Gary, Richard, Amy and the entire family circle. He left a significant mark on his local community and our party and he will be missed by all who knew him.”

Mr McLaughlin's funeral will take place on Friday with requiem mass in St. Mary’s Star of the Sea, Portstewart at 1pm followed by interment in St. John’s Cemetery, Coleraine.