Independent Councillor, Ailish McManus, will not contest the forthcoming local elections, citing the role as one which is now “a full-time job”.
The deputy principal of St. Mary’s National School in Athlone, was initially co-opted onto the Council to fill the void left as a result of Deputy Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran’s election as a TD in 2016.
Noting that her family and work commitments must take precedence, the sitting Councillor spoke of her immense honour and privilege to have served the people of Athlone.
“I wish to make to make it known that I will not be contesting the forthcoming local elections. The work of a County Councillor is very demanding and has in essence become a full time job. My family and work commitments must come first.
“It has been an immense honour and privilege to serve the people of Athlone for the last number of years. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time representing the people and did so to the very best of my ability. I want to thank my family, friends and the public for their support throughout this time. I would especially like to thank the staff of Westmeath County Council who have guided and aided me in carrying out my duties in an effective manner and I am also thankful to Minister Kevin Boxer Moran and his staff for all their assistance and support.
I will continue in my role as Councillor until May. Thereafter, I will stay involved with the many community-based projects on which I have been working. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all candidates well in the upcoming local election campaign,” Cllr. McManus remarked.
Acknowledging the outgoing Councillor’s work during her time as a local authority representative, Cllr. Paul Hogan paid tribute to her tireless endeavours since her co-option in 2016.
“I want to pay tribute to Cllr. Ailish McManus who has announced her intention not to contest the forthcoming local election. Ailish has served the people of Athlone on Westmeath County Council with distinction since her co-option in 2016.
“I regard Ailish as a fantastic elected representative who works tirelessly for the people of Athlone. She is a tremendous advocate for people and has always articulated her views in a constructive and positive manner. Councillor McManus is active in many facets of community life and has delivered many projects for the community of Athlone.
She has also worked to improve the lives of many people in the community. I regard Ailish as a colleague and a friend who will be sorely missed in local politics and I wish her well in the future,” Cllr. Hogan commented.
