Independents join Irish Unity working group on Derry & Strabane Council The composition of a Derry & Strabane Council Irish Unity Working Group is to be broadened to include independent representatives. Monday, 31st May 2021, 10:01 am A number of Independent Councillors initiated a Call-In process to challenge a decision taken back in April, saying: ‘We believe the democratic mandate of the Council will be better served by including a broader number of Councillors, including Independent Councillors, in the working group. It will also better serve our efforts toward shaping Council objectives.’ Council solicitor Philip Kingston addressed members saying; “You may recall that at the Council meeting on Thursday, April 29, 2021, a Notice of Motion was passed in relation to the establishment of a Working group on Irish Unity. In the course of the debate, an amendment was proposed by Councillor Gallagher which was seconded by Councillor Barr.”