Mayo's new Cathaoirleach lays out priorities in opening address

FIANNA FÁIL councillor Séan Carey has taken over as Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, succeeding Fine Gael’s John O’Hara.

The Corclough native was nominated by party colleague Damian Ryan, with the nomination seconded by Brendan Mulroy.

In his opening address, the newly appointed Cathaoirleach was praised for outlining clear priorities with housing firmly at the top of the agenda.

Carey expressed a strong desire to make it easier for rural people to live in their own communities and pledged to address longstanding planning issues across the county.

Highlighting local priorities in his native Erris, Carey pointed to the R312 road from Castlebar to Bellacorrick as a key project he wants to see progressed.

He also reiterated calls to deliver an indoor swimming pool for the people of Belmullet.

Carey reflected on his own roots, saying he was “lucky to be able to live in his native Erris all of his life,” while acknowledging that many had to leave “for one reason or another to make a living.”

He warmly welcomed those returning home, affirming that they are “always welcome.”

The new Cathaoirleach was commended by fellow councillors for his focus on housing, and for highlighting other major capital projects, including the acceleration of West on Track, the Western Rail Corridor, and the Strategic Development Zone around Knock Airport.

Former Cathaoirleach Gerry Coyle congratulated Carey, noting that he now joins an elite club of Erris natives, including Tim Quinn, Paddy Cosgrave, and the Geesala councillor to have held the council’s highest office.

Séan Carey was first elected to Mayo County Council in 2016, and was joined by Minister Dara Calleary and Fianna Fáil senator Ollie Crowe to celebrate the momentous occasion.

Fine Gael's Ger Deere will be the the vice-chair for the year ahead as he was nominated by colleague Cyril Burke and the proposal was seconded by fellow Castlebar councillor Donna Sheridan.

Deere noted the partnership and co-operation between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael has been successful so far and jokingly quipped to the new Cathaoirleach Sean Carey that he will be available to cover any and all events from Keenagh down.