Mary Katherine McSorley MBE is a former Irish nationalist politician.

McSorley joined the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP), and was elected to Magherafelt District Council in 1981.[1] She was then elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly in 1982, representing Mid Ulster.[2]

In January 1989, McSorley accepted an MBE.[3] This was against SDLP policy which stated that members should not accept British honours. It prompted talk of a split in the party, but McSorley was persuaded to resign.[4] She held her council seat as an independent in 1989,[5] but didn't stand for re-election in 1993.[6]

References

  1. ^ The Local Government Elections 1973–1981: Magherafelt, Northern Ireland Elections
  2. ^ Mid Ulster 1973–82.
  3. ^ Tim Pat Coogan, The Troubles: Ireland's Ordeal 1966–1996 and the Search for Peace
  4. ^ Dearbhail McDonald, "Kelly defies SDLP ban to accept OBE in New Year's honours list", The Times, 1 January 2006
  5. ^ Local Government Elections 1985 – 1989: Magherafelt, Northern Ireland Elections
  6. ^ Magherafelt District Council Elections 1993–2005, Northern Ireland Elections
Northern Ireland Assembly (1982) New assembly MPA for Mid Ulster 1982–1986 Assembly abolished
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