Council AGM 2006- Speech as Outgoing Mayor
June 29th, 2006Firstly, I’d like to thank everyone who has helped me through this year. The dedicated staff of Letterkenny Town Council make this job much easier. The Town Clerk, Assistant Town Clerk, Clerical Officers, Town Engineer, Town Planner, Housing Office, Foreman and all the other staff do an outstanding job, and I’m sure all the members here will join me in thanking them for their ongoing support in our role as Councillors.
I’d also like to thank all the elected members who supported my election this time last year. I thank you for showing faith in my abillity to carry out the functions required of a Chairman and Mayor, and hope I have lived up to those expectations.
I’d like to thank Cllr Brogan for his help as Deputy Mayor, and all the members I have worked with throughout the year.
It’s been an eventful year, with a steep learning curve. The role of Letterkenny has two very important roles. Firstly, as Chairman of the council, there are numerous responsibilities in this chamber. Secondly, and most publicly, as first citizen of the town I have been called on to represent this council at numerous events locally, and to represent the town across Ireland and further afield.
It has been a great honour to serve in this role. Some of the highlights this year have included the recent unveiling of the Celtic Cross at the Cathedral Car Park, a succesful application for funding for both CCTV and the Skate Park, and the major success of the Fleadh Cheoil. I have also been able to visit a number of schools, speaking to groups and presenting prizes.
I’m very proud of the success of the Mayor’s Ball, which is set to raise €50,000 for the Donegal Hospice. I’ll thank those involved later, but I’d like to particularly acknowledge Sally Blake and Frances Friel for all their help.
I’d like to thank my family for all their support, in particular my girlfriend Mary. They have all been a source of great help and support throughout the year, and hopefully for many years to come.
This year has been a fantastic experience, and I’d like to thank you all for your help throughout the year. I’d also like to wish my successor all the best in the job for the year ahead.