Labour Leader pays tribute to 'committed councillor' (From Times Series)

Labour Leader Alison Moore pays tribute to Councillor Andrew McNeil after his resignation today

3:00pm Wednesday 22nd February 2012 in News By Natalie O'Neill

Leader of the Barnet’s Labour Group has paid tribute to East Finchley councillor Andrew McNeil after he announced his resignation today.

Labour councillor McNeill, who was first elected in May 2006, is leaving the post for family reasons.

He said: “My daughter is making a new life with her husband in Northern Ireland and is expecting a baby in the summer. “She has long-standing health problems and will need our help at this time and in the future, which is why my wife and I have decided to move to Northern Ireland as soon as we can to be near her.”

Cllr Alison Moore said: "I'd like to pay tribute to Andrew both as Leader of the Labour Group and as a ward colleague for the work and contribution he has made since his election in 2006.

“Andrew has been a hugely committed councillor in East Finchley ward, in the Town Hall and in his roles as a school governor, trustee of Barnet Carers and a volunteer with the East Finchley Advice Service.

“In spite of his more recent health problems, Andrew has made significant contributions as Labour Group Chief Whip, on the Area Environment Committee and on the Health and Social Care Scrutiny Committee for which he has a real passion.

“He will be very much missed. I and my colleagues wish him and his family all the very best for this new and exciting stage in his and their lives."

Before retiring in 2002, Cllr McNeil worked in television and for the trade association for the British shipping industry where he was head of parliamentary and media affairs.

He is the author of five history books for children and designed the best-selling adult board game Kingmaker, which has won awards in the UK and the US.