Colm Markey takes on Cathaoirleach role and says Brexit is immediate issue
FINE Gael Councillor Colm Markey took over the helm at Louth County Council when he was elected chairman yesterday (Monday).
The position which becomes available on an annual basis, was vacated by Cllr. Paul Bell, who spoke of an ‘extraordinary year’.
‘I enjoyed the many challenges of being chairman,; said Cllr. Bell, adding that his first major challenge was welcoming then U.S Vice President, Joe Biden when he visited Louth with his family in June 2016.
‘I met with many community and voluntary groups all over this county, people who are working away quietly and diligently on behalf of their fellow citizens.’
He highlighted the many challenges which the county continues to face, including the provision of housing, and the medical needs, along with the aim to generate more employment for the people of Louth.
He said there were ‘moments of great sadness too’ and reflected on the death of popular council staff member Andy Califf earlier this year, which he said ‘still impacts on me greatly, and I know on so many of us here,’ along with the tragic loss of Captain Mark Duffy along with his colleagues from the Irish coastguard.’
He thanked Cllr. Conor Keelan for his assistance as vice chairman, adding ‘you were a wonderful colleague to work with throughout the year.
And he paid tribute to council officials and the CEO for their support throughout his time in office.
‘But the greatest support I have had all year has been from councillors. It would simply not have been possible to operate this office without your backing. I am very proud to have worked with such dedicated colleagues.’
Tributes were paid to Cllr. Bell from across the chamber, particularly for his representing the council during the visit of Vice President Biden
Councillor Colm Markey was proposed by Cllr. Oliver Tully to take the chair, while Cllr. Joanna Byrne was nominated by Cllr. Pearse McGeough.
Cllr. Markey took the chair after a roll call of votes, 16 to 9 in favour of his nomination.
Cllr. Markey accepted the chains of office, thanking all councillors for their support, adding that during his year in office: ‘I would like to see all of us, as one council, working together.’
He added that Louth would face a number of challenges over the next twelve, including th impact of Brexit.