Official Opening of Aontú’s First Office in the North – Dungiven, East Derry Friday 5th June
Aontú Deputy Leader and East Derry representative Gemma Brolly has expressed her deep gratitude and pride following the official opening of the party’s new constituency office in Dungiven — the first Aontú office in the North.
The event drew a large crowd of family, friends, party members and supporters from across the community, creating what Brolly described as “a powerful reminder of the hope, heart and hunger for better that exists right across East Derry.”
Ms Brolly opened with heartfelt thanks to those who helped bring the office to life, saying it was “the collective work, the passion and the courage of our members, past and present, who have brought us this far.” She reminded everyone that although her face may be on the wall, “this is your milestone, our milestone, our achievement as we open our first office in the North” – further thanking ‘Ye that have tried it out with me, and with Aontú as we have and continue to try it out with the tyrants, hypocrites and liars.’ The wife and mother of 4 spoke honestly about the pressures of political life, noting that elections are “possibly up there as one of the hardest, most challenging times of my life personally.” Despite that, she said the real motivation is simple: “What’s it all for if not for our children, our weins, our generations to come.”
The schoolteacher continued, pointing to Benbradagh, the Sperrins, local schools and hospitals, warning that “each and every one of them are under attack,” and insisting that “we cannot do everything but we can all do something.” She shared her journey from múinteoir to public representative, paying a very emotional tribute to her family, explaining how their faith in her “never waivers” and telling her husband and their children, “Mo ghrá sibh.”
The Aontú Deputy Leader and East Derry representative described the moment of recognising a child whose school placement she had helped secure, saying the encounter was a stark reminder of faith and how sometimes paths are meant to cross. Ms Brolly then concluded, reflecting on the courage and efforts of founding members – particularly Dungiven’s own Francie Brolly, noting that his commitment to culture, equality and human rights “continues to flourish” in the community. Ms Brolly then closed by honouring the strong, dignified women who continue to guide and inspire and by inviting Anne Brolly and Bridie Lynch to cut the ribbon to “officially mark the opening, oscailt Oifig Aontú Doire Thoir.”
Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín, also attended and addressed the crowd, paying tribute to the immense work that has taken place behind the scenes to bring the office to life. He thanked local members and volunteers for their commitment and praised Brolly’s character and dedication: “Gemma is someone full of heart and emotion. When she hears of a problem, when she hears of someone suffering, she knows no other way but to try to help. This office is a testament to that spirit — and to the belief that politics should be rooted in service, not self‑interest.”
Tóibín added that the opening of the Dungiven office marks a significant moment for the party, “This is Aontú’s first office in the North. It is a clear declaration of intent. of our commitment, not only to the people of East Derry but far beyond. We are here to work, to listen and to deliver.”
The office is now open to the public, currently opening Monday 10am-2pm, Tuesday – Thursday appointment only, Friday 4-6pm and Saturday 10am-1pm.”
