His elected representative replacement soon to be formally confirmed, former Independent Councillor, Jamie Moran, made known his decision to depart the Westmeath County Council Chamber on his facebook page this past weekend.
Cllr Moran was elected to the local authority in May 2019 and was the youngest member to sit within the Council surrounds.
In his post, the departed Councillor stated that it was with a “heavy heart” he announced his resignation from Westmeath County Council with immediate effect.
“It was a great honour and privilege to serve the people of Athlone and Moate since I was elected. My decision for stepping down is due to new work opportunities, it is one that I have not taken lightly and I have given it much thought and reflection.
“I would like to thank all my colleagues and staff members in the council and the outdoor staff. A big thanks to all my friends, supporters and family”.
Acknowledging his decision to depart his role, Cathaoirleach, Westmeath County Council, Cllr Frankie Dolan, thanked Cllr Moran for his two years of Council service.
“I would like to thank Jamie Moran for his work on the council over the last couple of years. It is unfortunate that we have lost a young councillor from the chamber and I would like to wish Jamie every good wish as he pursues the next step in his career.
“Interestingly enough, this vacancy has now sparked a lot of interest amongst the public as over the last couple of days I have received calls from both female and male potential nominees looking for support.
“It is great to see so much interest from people wanting to get involved in politics. In the interest of fairness, all such requests will be considered in full by the Fianna Fail Group before a decision is made.
“It is important that the process of filling this casual vacancy on Westmeath County Council is carried out in keeping with Section 19 of the Local Government Act, 2001 as amended by the Local Government Reform Act, 2014 and our own Council’s Standing Orders.
“The item is on the agenda for the next meeting of Westmeath County Council which is scheduled for January 24,” Cllr Keena asserted.
Concurring with Cllr Keena’s gratitude sentiments, Athlone Deputy Mayor, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke noted that a preliminary meeting of Fianna Fáil councillors had taken place in recent times to discuss the vacancy.
“The nine Fianna Fail Councillors had a preliminary meeting to discuss the vacancy created by the sudden resignation of Jamie Moran from Westmeath County Council late last week.
“It is our understanding that a number of people are interested in the position. We have not reached any decisions at this time but we are determined to ensure that this process is open, fair, fully transparent and democratic.
“We have no doubt that whoever the new councillor will be on January 24, he or she will be afforded every cooperation and support possible both from the sitting Councillors and the staff of Westmeath County Council to ensure a professional and efficient transition,” Cllr O’Rourke commented.
