Mayo's Peter Flynn elected to lead 'biggest district in Ireland'
FINE GAEL councillor Peter Flynn has been elected cathaoirleach of the Westport-Belmullet Municipal District at the district’s annual general meeting today.
His election came following a nomination by party colleague Gerry Coyle and seconding by Fianna Fáil councillor Brendan Mulroy.
The Westport-based councillor takes over from Fianna Fáil’s Sean Carey, who received warm tributes from across the chamber for his leadership over the past year.
Councillors Brendan Mulroy, Peter Flynn, Johno O’Malley, Chris Maxwell, Paul McNamara and Gerry Coyle all praised Carey for his fair and inclusive chairmanship over the last year and wished him well in his new role as cathaoirleach of Mayo county council.
In accepting the role, councillor Flynn said it was “a great honour” to serve as chair for the first time of this municipal district.
He acknowledged the vast size and diversity of the district, saying “it’s the biggest by area in Ireland, probably in Europe too if you go looking.”
But he spoke about ensuring there is unity in the chamber, “we are one district, and that is how we will move forward.”
He highlighted a number of key challenges facing the district, including the housing crisis, dereliction, and the poor condition of the existing library building in Westport.
He spoke of fears regarding the old convent building in Westport potentially not proceeding forward for development.
He also spoke about the importance of seeing millions worth of investment coming into Mayo from TII in terms of greenway investment.
Councillor Gerry Coyle, in nominating Flynn, said that consultation is more valuable than confrontation.
Seconding the nomination, Fianna Fáil councillor Brendan Mulroy praised Councillor Flynn’s long-standing commitment to the community and his constructive approach, saying he had always found him “very fair to deal with.”
The position of Leas-Cathaoirleach was filled by Independent councillor Johno O’Malley, following a nomination by councillor Chris Maxwell and seconding by Brendan Mulroy.
Several councillors voiced their support for the nomination, with councillors Coyle and Maxwell describing O’Malley as “always helpful with advice.”
Councillor O’Malley expressed surprise and gratitude at his election, saying he would do his best in the role but he was shocked to be nominated.
Newly elected chairman Peter Flynn said while there is a Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael pact in the chamber, it’s important to support both of the Independents, O’Malley and Maxwell and show that there is unity in the chamber.
Director of Services Joanne Grehan and Head of the district, Seamus O’Mongáin both welcomed the new cathaoirleach and thanked the outgoing Carey for his work over the previous year.