Jarlath Tinnelly serves as an independent councillor on Newry Mourne & Down District Council.

He was first elected in May 2014 and represents the Crotlieve District Electoral Area which includes Warrenpoint. An employee of Translink, Jarlath is currently a member of the council’s planning committee and the audit committee He was appointed to the Board of Warrenpoint Harbour Authority in August 2024.