Raymond McCrea (c. 1947 – November 2021) was a Northern Irish politician and a member of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). He was active in both local and regional politics in Northern Ireland during the latter half of the 20th century.
Political Career McCrea began his political career in local government, winning election to the Belfast City Council in 1977. He represented the Laganbank electoral area and served as a city councillor for several terms. In the 1982 Northern Ireland Assembly election, he was elected as a representative for the Belfast South constituency. During his time in the Assembly, which lasted until its dissolution in 1986, McCrea was involved in debates regarding the constitutional status of Northern Ireland and the security situation during the period known as the Troubles.
Political Positions and Activism As a member of the DUP, McCrea maintained a staunch unionist and loyalist platform. He was a vocal critic of the 1985 Anglo-Irish Agreement, participating in the "Ulster Says No" campaign organized by unionist leaders to protest against the increased role of the Irish government in Northern Irish affairs. McCrea was also an active member of the Orange Order and the Royal Black Institution, organizations that play a significant role in the cultural and political life of the unionist community.
Later Years McCrea continued to serve in local government until the early 2000s, when he retired from active political life. He died in November 2021 at the age of 74. Following his death, he was recognized by colleagues for his long-standing service to the city of Belfast and his commitment to the unionist cause.