ICYMI: 'Where democracy is at its strongest' - Kilkenny councillor lands high profile position
The June AGM of the Castlecomer Municipal District has elected a new Cathaoirleach
Newly elected Cathaoirleach of the Castlecomer Municipal District, Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick has described the role as a "tremendous honour" and a "great privilege", pledging to ensure that people across the district feel "heard, valued and supported" during his term in office.
Mr Fitzpatrick succeeds Cllr Michael McCarthy in the position and reprises the role he held in 2016-17 and 2021-2022.
Meanwhile, Cllr John Brennan, a long-standing member of Kilkenny County Council since 1989, will fill the position of Leas Ceathaoirleach.
“I have always believed that local government is where democracy is at its strongest,” Cllr Fitzpatrick told June’s AGM of the Castlecomer Municipal District, adding, “it is the level of government closest to people’s everyday lives.”
Cllr Fitzpatrick pledged to build upon an existing ‘spirit of partnership’ with council staff and volunteers, hailing their ‘professionalism, commitment and dedication’.
“As Cathaoirleach, I want to ensure that every community, every village and every town feels heard, valued and supported,” he continued.
“Let us continue to work together to make the Castlecomer Municipal District an even stronger place for everyone who lives here.”
The Fianna Fáil councillor also acknowledged the positive contribution of his predecessor, crediting Cllr McCarthy’s work in advancing local projects.
In his address, the Freshford native reflected on an ‘enjoyable and fruitful’ year.
“It's been my pleasure to have been the catalyst behind a plethora of projects that have enhanced our Municipal District and to maintain and build on the momentum of my predecessor Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh in terms of our economic, tourism and cultural offerings,” Cllr McCarthy told those gathered, highlighting a number of new projects in North Kilkenny.
“Thank you again for your patience and commitment which has made my year as Cathaoirleach so enjoyable and fruitful. To borrow a phrase from yesteryear “A lot done but more to do. This reflects a balance between accomplishment and the ongoing effort, for the good of all in the Castlecomer Municipal District,” he concluded.