COURT WELCOME FOR SUPT
A complete changing of the guard at Sligo Garda Station was remarked upon at the District Court last Thursday as the city’s new Superintendent was warmly welcomed.
Supt Ray McMahon replaces the recently retired Supt Mary Murray while the station also has a new Chief Superintendent, Aidan Glackin who took up the position from Chief Supt Michael Clancy who had been in the role since 2012.
Welcoming Supt McMahon on behalf of the Sligo Solicitors’ Association, Mr Gerard McGovern said he had dealings with the new Superintendent since he came to work in Sligo in another role.
“He has been a Superintendent since 2013 and my colleagues and I have met him on occasions and he has been a pleasure to deal with. I’ve always found him to be a decent and honourable individual man and he has always been fair to deal with,” said Mr McGovern, saying the new Superintendent had a lot of Leitrim connections being a native of Carrick-on-Shannon.
Mr McGovern addeed: “I can assure you that you will have the full co-operation of the solicitors. We have always had a very good working relationship with An Garda Siochana.”
Judge Kevin Kilrane wecomed Supt McMahon to his permanent role in Sligo and remarked how his predecessor had run a tight and efficient operation and that she had a harmonious relationship with the legal profession.
“There has been a complete changing of the guard in Sligo with the appointment of a new Chief Superintendent and Superintendent,” said the Judge, adding that Chief Supt Glackin had yet to show himself in court but that he probably would soon.
Judge Kilrane said Supt McMahon was a very experienced officer having served in many areas during his various promotions including in the border which was probably both exciting and challenging for him.
“Sligo is largely a law abiding area. It has its difficulties from time to time but you’ ll find that your time here will not be unhappy,” he said. He added that everyone was committed to a smooth running of the judicial system and criminal procedures and that he would receive nothing but the co-operation and efficiency from the local Bar. Ms Loretta Kearins, on behalf of the Courts Service, also welcomed Supt McMahon and assured him of office’s support.
Supt McMahon thanked everyone for their kind remarks. He said he wasn’t coming a stranger to Sligo and joked that he hoped his status as a Leitrim man working in Sligo would not be held against him.