A new Cathaoirleach and Leas Cathaoirleach have been appointed for each of the three Roscommon Municipal Districts this week.
Cllr Emer Kelly is the new Cathaoirleach of the Athlone Municipal District, Cllr Liam Callaghan has succeeded Cllr John Cummins in Boyle, while Cllr Anthony Waldron takes the chain of office in Roscommon.
Meanwhile, the new Leas Cathaoirleach in Athlone is Cllr Laurence Fallon, while Cllr Tom Crosby assumes the role in Boyle and Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice in Roscommon.
Accepting the position in Athlone, Cllr Kelly said that growing investment in the Athlone MD area was having an impact upon local communities, but that challenges – such as the development of the N61 and flooding issues affecting Lough Funshinagh – remained.
In a subsequent press statement, Cllr. Kelly said: “I can say with confidence that I along with all councillors in our area will continue to demand solutions for these issues and hopefully see some progression or clarity sooner rather than later.
“I intend to continue to fight for rural Ireland – in particular to maintain and advance the services we have to ensure no further closures, encourage business development, promote accessibility for all, advocate for fairer planning laws and regulations and support development in our towns and villages that will entice young people to work and live in our areas”.
She also referred to growing collaboration between members and the neighbouring Athlone/South Westmeath MD area which is part of Westmeath County Council and the Ballinasloe MD area, over issues of common concern.
