Barry McElduff has completed a year as chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council and has confirmed he will stand in next year’s council elections. The Sinn Féin councillor previously held the position in 2022-23 and returned for a second term in 2025-26.

During his term, McElduff devoted an estimated 50 hours a week to council duties and attended an average of five engagements per day across six days. He described the role as demanding but rewarding, offering insight into community life and personal struggles.

He highlighted the council’s work in tourism promotion, including the inclusion of the region in the Hidden Heartlands initiative. He also defended the council’s acceptance of £20 million from the Levelling Up Fund for the new Lakeland Forum leisure centre in Enniskillen, stating it was an opportunity that could not be refused.

A council visit to China during his term drew local criticism, but McElduff said the trip cost £5,400 and that he considered it good value for strengthening international relationships.

On finances, he noted the council kept the domestic rates rise below two per cent and maintained a £1 million community grant scheme to support organisations during cost-of-living pressures.

McElduff praised relationships across the council chamber, saying he enjoyed good interpersonal ties with all 39 councillors. He highlighted the working relationship with DUP vice-chair Shirley Hawkes.

He paid tribute to council staff, particularly chief executive Alison McCullagh, citing her professionalism and leadership.

Support for community groups formed a central part of his year. He pointed to visits to volunteer organisations and named Coa O’Dwyers GFC as a memorable example. His chosen charities were Brightstarz and Skyzdalimit, which he described as promoting inclusion.

The council also backed healthcare initiatives, endorsing the SOAS roadmap and commissioning the ICLIR report, and supported campaigns to end violence against women and girls.

McElduff said he intends to take a short period of rest before preparing for next year’s elections.