Thomas has worked as a Councillor in Antrim Borough Council for the past 10 years and from 2003 has served the people of South Antrim as their SDLP Assembly Member.  Thomas is originally from Aldergrove and lives in Crumlin with his wife Therese and three young sons Bobby, Patrick, and Malachy.

In addition to his work as a local Borough Councillor and MLA, Thomas is a Director of Antrim Citizens Advice Bureau.  He also sits on the Board of Governors of two local primary schools, St. Joseph’s PS and Rathenraw Integrated PS and Crumlin High School.

Thomas is a committed campaigner for the development of recreational facilities and in recent years helped secure funding for a children's play area in Crumlin.

Thomas is also a member of Crumlin Against Asbestos, a community group which recently took legal action against the Department of the Environment in their decision to grant a licence for an Asbestos storage facility at Crumlin.

Thomas has a specialist interest in dyslexia and autism support groups and in exploring ways and means of overcoming the obstacles faced by those with learning difficulties.  He is a keen supporter of recycling and is an SDLP Spokesperson for Social Development.

As a keen GAA enthusiast, Thomas is a big supporter of his local Club, St James' at Aldergrove.  He is particularly committed to GAA youth initiatives which help pass on the tradition and passion for the game.

"Since it opened in March 2004, my constituency office has been a hive of activity, dealing with numerous enquiries and requests for help from constituents living in all parts of South Antrim, including Crumlin, Antrim, Randalstown, Templepatrick, Toome and Glengormley.  It has been a pleasure to get to know so many of you through your visits to the office, your letters, emails and telephone calls.  If I can be of any help to you, please do not hesitate to contact me.  Working with you, I will work for you."

Thomas Burns MLA