Councillor Henry Cushinan is the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey for 2026-27.
A proud grandfather and family man, I recently retired after a 35-year career as a welder. Throughout my adult life, I have been actively involved in politics and committed to serving my local community.
I was first elected to Antrim Borough Council in 1985 and was subsequently re-elected for several terms. During the period of local government reform, I also served on the Transition Committee as part of the Review of Public Administration (RPA), helping to shape the formation of the current council structure. Since then, I have continued to serve the people of Antrim and Newtownabbey.
Planning and sustainable development have been key areas of focus throughout my council career. I have served on the Planning Committee for many years and have had the privilege of chairing this committee on several occasions.
As a Council representative on the Lough Neagh Partnership, I am deeply committed to protecting and enhancing the future of Lough Neagh.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Mayor
As Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan has a number of duties and responsibilities, including:
- presiding over council meetings and, in the case of equality of votes, she has a second or casting vote
- promoting and raising awareness of the Council’s main objectives and priority issues
- encouraging and supporting all aspects of life in Antrim and Newtownabbey by attending civic and public events
- receiving distinguished visitors to the Borough
- acting as host on behalf of the council and the citizens of Antrim and Newtownabbey at civic functions
- acting as a spokesperson to the local, national and international media
- providing an appropriate response on behalf of Antrim and Newtownabbey at times of local, national and international catastrophe
- supporting and encouraging charitable and other appeals as appropriate
- promoting Antrim and Newtownabbey’s business, commercial, cultural and social life
- promoting Antrim and Newtownabbey as a place of excellence in which to live to do business and as a tourist destination