Councillors spent time at Monday’s meeting of the Municipal District (February 6 ) both welcoming a new member of staff and bidding farewell to a long-term loyal servant.
Mayor John Dolan (FG ) opened the meeting by introducing Frank Dolan as the council’s new municipal administrator and simultaneously wished Michael Burke all the best as he prepares to enter retirement in two weeks time.
Fianna Fáil councillor, Frankie Keena, added his voice to welcoming Mr Dolan, remarking that he was “delighted to see the position filled”. Turning to Mr Burke, he called him “an excellent public servant” who was helpful to both the public and elected representatives.
Sinn Féin councillor, Paul Hogan, welcomed Mr Dolan before commending Mr Burke for his 28 years of service with the council. He added that Mr Burke had spent an additional 12 to 15 years working in Roscommon, making his career even more distinguished. Cllr Hogan described Mr Burke as “very approachable and informative” and said his retirement is a great loss to Westmeath County Council, but that his family will be glad to have him home.
Fianna Fáil’s Aengus O’Rourke joked that he and his fellow councillors have two weeks to convince Mr Burke to change his mind on his retirement, before wishing him good luck.
Cllr Tom Farrell (FG ) remarked that Michael had always been a pleasure to work with and was always “very fair” to Westmeath.
Addressing the chamber, Mr Burke thanked the councillors, both past and present, whom he had worked with throughout the years. He thanked those present for their kind words and added that they had always been more than fair and helpful in their dealings with him. He concluded by wishing everyone the very best moving forward.
