A new line-up for 2020 at Gorey’s municipal district
THE first matter of business for Gorey Kilmuckridge Municipal District in 2020 was the election of a new Cathoirleach and Leas Cathoirleach, following the departure of deputy Malcolm Byrne when he was elected to Dáil Eireann following last year’s by-election.
Proceedings began with Cllr Donal Kenny proposing Cllr Joe Sullivan, the former Leas Cathoirleach for the Cathoirleach position, which was seconded by Cllr Pip Breen.
Cllr Anthony Donohoe proposed Cllr Mary Farrell, which was seconded by Cllr Diarmuid Devereux.
New councillor Andrew Bolger cast his first vote which was for Cllr Joe Sullivan, as did the fellow five Fianna Fail members, winning a majority.
For the position of Leas Cathoirleach, Cllr Willie Kavanagh proposed Cllr Pip Breen, which was seconded by Andrew Bolger.
On the other side of the chamber, Anthony Donohoe proposed Diarmuid Devereux, which was seconded by Oliver Walsh.
Cllr Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin was not in the chamber at the time of the meeting to vote on either selection, and again Fianna Fail members held a majority.
Speaking after the election,
Cllr Joe Sullivan thanked everyone present for the honour reflecting on a time he was Cathoirleach before in 20172018.
‘It’s a considerable work load, but all councillors understand it’s a shared workload, but it will bring a great sense of achievement’.
He mentioned a number of ongoing projects, from the Market House to Gorey Town Park, that will be of huge economic benefit to the town.
‘We must look at the district in its entirety, as we are equally responsible to deliver for all areas. Our goal as ten councillors has to be delivering the best for the Gorey Kilmuckridge district. It’s our duty and responsibility to work as hard as we can,’ he said.
Cllr Sullivan also wished all general election candidates well.
Cllr Devereux wished echoed the sentiment and wished Malcolm Byrne well, but he criticised the Fianna Fail party for being a ‘boy’s club’ and not electing Mary Farrell to the position.
Cllr Donohoe welcomed Andrew Bolger, saying he hoped he would ‘bring some original ideas’ which he feels Fianna Fail councillors have lacked on.
Cllr Farrell said that she appreciated the nomination, but that it was more important that all councillors worked together around the table.
Cllr Kavanagh congratulated and welcomed Andrew Bolger, as did Oliver Walsh.
‘They are large boots to fill but being from the town, you’ ll have a lot of work on your hands to keep the flag flying,’ said Cllr Kavanagh.
Cllr Kenny commiserated with Mary Farrell and responding to the comments, Andrew Bolger said that he was very honoured to be there.
‘I will work with all regardless of party, and I thank you for the welcome,’ he said.