Mary McSorley

Mary Katherine McSorley 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