His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ, Freeman of Antrim and Newtownabbey and Elected Members were all in attendance for the momentous occasion. Since her retirement in October, Jacqui has been appointed Deputy Lieutenant for the County of Antrim, awarded an MBE and now the prestigious Freedom of the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey.
The Freedom of the Borough is the highest award that the Council can grant and is awarded to local people and organisations who have rendered eminent services to the Borough.
Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Mark Cooper BEM paid tribute to Jacqui, following her 25 years’ service to local government.
“As our esteemed former Chief Executive, Jacqui’s exceptional leadership was a driving force behind the development and prosperity of our Council, moulding it into a thriving and progressive organisation. Her focus on best practice and empowerment made a substantial and lasting impact on local government.”
He continued, “The decision to bestow the highest honour of the Council upon Jacqui is not only fitting but also recognition of her tireless dedication and significant contribution to the development of our Borough. I’d like to extend our heartfelt appreciation for her years of service and congratulate her on this well-deserved honour.”
Speaking of the award ceremony, Jacqui commented,
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Mayor, Councillor Mark Cooper and all the Elected Members for agreeing to confer upon me the Freedom of the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey. To be a Freeman of the Borough of Antrim and Newtownabbey is a genuinely humbling experience and a significant honour for which I am extremely grateful.”
Jacqui’s name will now be added to the Council’s Roll of Honourable Freemen alongside former councillors, scientists, business leaders and sporting heroes.
