Delight and disappointment for O’Dowd
SINN Fein’s pleasure at being the party which attracted the highest number of first preference votes in Upper Bann came with the pain of disappointment at not securing a second seat in the constituency.
Speaking after his victory announced on Friday, returned MLA John O’Dowd said he had “mixed emotions” in that while he was delighted to be returning to Stormont, he was also “disappointed” that the party had not secured a second seat.
However, he pointed out the the party had much to be proud of in that it was the largest polling party in Upper Bann.
“The electorate has given a strong message that the demographics in Upper Bann are changing and that people want positive, inclusive politics - that is the way forward,” said Mr O’Dowd.