
Alderman Frank McCoubrey BEM has officially taken up office as High Sheriff of Belfast for the second time, marking a rare achievement in the city’s civic history.
The Democratic Unionist Party councillor, who represents the Court area, was sworn in during a special ceremony at Belfast City Hall on Tuesday 13 January. He succeeds Councillor Fiona McAteer and becomes the city’s 126th High Sheriff.
With this appointment, Alderman McCoubrey becomes one of only four elected members to have held all three major civic offices in Belfast:
Speaking following the ceremony, he said he was delighted to return to the role after previously serving as High Sheriff in 2009.
“I am delighted to take up the role of High Sheriff once again, and be among a select group of individuals to have completed this civic ‘hat trick’.”
He added that Belfast has changed significantly since his last term and said he is keen to reconnect with communities across the city.
Alderman McCoubrey highlighted the importance of the role in promoting Belfast during what he described as a crucial year for visitors.
“A lot has changed in our city since then, so I’m looking forward to re-engaging with this role, meeting with groups across the city and helping to showcase all that Belfast has to offer.”
Alderman McCoubrey has been involved in community development in west Belfast for more than 30 years. He is also a long-standing member of the West Belfast District Policing and Community Safety Partnership.
A member of the Democratic Unionist Party, he has served as a councillor for 27 years. In June 2024, he was awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) in recognition of his services to local government and the community in west and north Belfast.
The High Sheriff will serve for a full calendar year and joins Belfast’s current civic leadership team, which includes:
For more information on the role of the High Sheriff, visit Belfast City Council.
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