GERRY Mullan from Limavady has handed in his nomination papers.
And he is set to take over the reins from John Dallat in East Derry if elected to the new Assembly.
Gerry was first elected to Limavady Borough Council in 2002 and served as mayor before going to secure a seat in the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council serving on various committees.
He said: “The SDLP in East Derry has a long and proud record of service always putting people before party and never giving up on vital issues which affect the lives of ordinary people on a daily basis.
“The SDLP provides a full-time constituency service which has been used by thousands of constituents over the years dealing with many issues including benefits, planning, education, health housing and many others. We are proud of our record and pledge to continue to put service to the people first.
“A major issue for people here is healthcare provision. Continuing the role of Causeway Hospital and creating closer links with Altnagelvin is key to ensuring the delivery of health services in East Derry that meets the needs of it’s people.
“The creation of jobs and much better support for local and small businesses must be a focus for the new Assembly and especially in East Derry when so many young people have been forced to emigrate.
“I want to see them coming home to a prosperous East Derry which has undergone major investment in infrastructure in recognition of the deficit over the years and especially during the last nine years when the DUP and SF coalition failed to deliver any significant investment to this constituency,” added Mr Mullan.