Statement by Alderman Stewart McDonald, TUV Bannside:
“I was delighted that Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill was recognised by the Sports Personality of the Year panel and even more so that he went on to win the prestigious Coach of the Year Award.
“Of course, in this region of the UK we all know what an achievement it is for Michael O’Neill to manage Northern Ireland and motivate them to top their group and qualify for the European Championships in Paris this summer. To have the whole of the UK recognise his achievement is a whole other level – and one that is truly deserved.
“On the back of this award, I am now calling on Michael O’Neill to be granted the Freedom of the Borough for Mid and East Antrim Borough Council. He would be most deserving of this accolade and it would be our own gesture to recognise his achievements.”