The Alliance Party has elected Eóin Tennyson MLA as their new deputy leader, following a meeting of 190 party members on Tuesday evening.
He replaces Dr Stephen Farry, who lost his North Down seat in the House of Commons earlier this year and announced his intention to step down as deputy leader in September.
Tennyson was up against Kate Nicholl MLA for the position. The party previously confirmed that they will not release the breakdown of the votes from the 190 party members.
I take up this role at a hugely exciting time for our party and I am incredibly thankful to party members for placing their trust in me.
– Eóin Tennyson MLA, Alliance Party deputy leader
Competition in politics and within political parties is healthy, provided it is in the right spirit. This Deputy Leadership contest was carried out exactly that way. Kate and I are friends and colleagues, and she will continue to play a key role in Alliance going forward.
Stephen Farry leaves big shoes to fill, having carried out his roles as MP and Deputy Leader with honour and integrity. Working with Naomi Long as Deputy Leader is an important role which I will give my all and I can’t wait to get started.
My elevation to this position is not about a change in direction but a change in gear. I’m keen to build on the momentum created by Stephen, and to work with Naomi and the rest of our vibrant leadership team to develop and grow our party even further.
With three years until the next Assembly and Council elections, we now have an opportunity to connect with communities beyond our traditional heartlands, and to build our organisation in every area of Northern Ireland. That way we can ensure everyone, no matter where they live, can see the delivery from Alliance they deserve.
Mr Tennyson was first elected to the Assembly in 2022, and was the youngest MLA when he was elected. He also served on Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council from 2019.
He holds the position of Finance Spokesperson within the party.
Eóin is a fantastic politician and more importantly, a fantastic person. He will bring a wealth of experience to the role of Deputy Leader and I can’t wait to get working with him. He and Kate have both run excellent campaigns and I am proud to call them both Alliance representatives. With Eóin as part of the leadership team, the future undoubtedly looks bright for the party.
– Naomi Long MLA, Alliance Party leader
