10 April 2026
SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone has paid tribute to former councillor James McGarvey.
He represented the SDLP on Cookstown District Council for many years and served a term as chair.
Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone said:
“James McGarvey was an SDLP stalwart. After being heavily involved in the civil rights movement he joined our party at its early stages and went on to represent his community for two decades on Cookstown District Council, including a term as chair which I know he was very proud of. Throughout this time on council he gave wise advice to many fellow councillors, including myself.
“From the Lissan area, James made a significant contribution to his community in many ways. He worked as a teacher and later Principal at Holy Trinity Primary School, while also farming part-time. He was passionate about rural development and played an important role on the Cookstown Twinning Committee, helping to build the long-standing partnership with Plérin Sur Mer.
“My thoughts and prayers, and those of the entire SDLP, are with his wife Margaret, children Conor, Rachel, Patrick and the late Shane, and all of his family and friends at this very sad time.”