ronan fagan
An occasion tinged with emotion, Fianna Fáil councillor, Liam McDaniel, received the Cathaoirleach chain of office from outgoing counterpart, Cllr Aengus O’Rourke at the Westmeath County Council AGM on Monday afternoon.
Serving his inaugural five year term as an elected representative, Cllr Liam McDaniel, was nominated for the role of Cathaoirleach by political party colleagues, Cllr Vinny McCormack and Cllr Ken Glynn, his accession to the position being warmly received by his colleagues and local authority executive present.
Addressing the council chamber, Cllr McDaniel stated that he was “honoured” and “humbled” to be nominated and appointed to the role of Cathaoirleach, expressing his gratitude to all those who have supported him as an elected representative to date.
“Over time we all have many highs and lows but as a proud Westmeath man, my election as Cathaoirleach is definitely the highlight of my career.
“I want to thank my councillor colleagues for their words of support which are very much appreciated and the chief executive for his kind words. I would not be here today only for my wonderful wife Anne, daughter Nicola, her husband Stephen, granddaughter Pearl, son Thomas, his partner Laura, my brothers, sister and extended family, some of whom unfortunately could not be here with me today.
“This achievement would not be possible without the support of my family, who not only helped me overcome my recent illness but have also been a pillar of strength over the years. I cannot let today pass without thanking my many friends and supporters who encouraged me to take on this role and also the electorate of the Moate/Kilbeggan area who elected me to represent them at council level.
“I wish to recognise the support and guidance from my colleagues in the Fianna Fail party, in particular local Oireachtas members, Deputy Robert Troy, Senator Paul Daly and Senator Aidan Davitt,” Cllr McDaniel said.
Cllr McDaniel voiced his continuing commitment to the electorate, both urban and rural, during his term as Cathaoirleach.
“During my time on this council I have always admired the way my fellow members have approached and discussed difficult issues and how decisions are reached by consensus rather than majority voting. I hope to continue this decision making process during my term.
“Fleadh Ceoil na hEireann returns to Mullingar this summer. This brings another great opportunity to showcase our capital town and build upon the hard work and outstanding success of 2022. Some Fleadh events will take place in Athlone as this gives an opportunity to showcase Athlone as a potential host town for the Fleadh in the future.
“Housing, climate change, supports and services for our elderly citizens and rural development continue to be just some of the major issues facing us as councillors in the year ahead. However, our work in this regard is alleviated by the great support we receive from chief executive, Pat Gallagher, and his hard working staff, both indoor and outdoor. I look forward to engaging with all throughout my term.
“Our achievements as local representatives are very much recognised and reported on, and I express gratitude to all local media outlets for the coverage afforded to Westmeath County council. As Cathaoirleach, I am confident this relationship will continue to prosper throughout my term and I am eager to promote Westmeath be it via press, radio or social media during the coming year.
In conclusion, I again wish to thank you all for your support and I look forward to a successful term as your Cathaoirleach. This time next year our local election will be over and who knows what result that will deliver. In the meantime, I wish all my colleagues a successful year ahead. Let us all work for the betterment of Westmeath,” Cllr McDaniel concluded.
