Cllr Dr Evelyn Parsons has been elected Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal Council, replacing outgoing Cllr Dermot Connolly in the chair.
The Independent councillor who joined Galway County Council less than two years ago was elected at the Ballinasloe Municipal District AGM this week.
Cllr Evelyn Parsons said it was a huge privilege to be elected to the role and a double honour to be the first female Cathaoirleach of the Ballinasloe Municipal District.
“It’s an exciting time to be taking on this important role with new opportunities and challenges in the year ahead, and I look forward to working to the best of my ability with all elected representatives and staff on behalf of the people of the Ballinasloe Municipal District and the county,” said Cllr Parsons.
“Over the next year I look forward to carrying on the good work in the spirit of partnership and cooperation with my council colleagues and members and staff of Galway County Council to progress the implementation of the County Development Plan and Local Area plan to improve Ballinasloe/ East Galway as a highly attractive place to live, work, visit and invest.”
Cllr Parsons said that she is committed to making Ballinasloe East Galway a healthier, cleaner, environmentally sustainable, accessible, more prosperous and enjoyable area for people of all ages and abilities.
“I wish to continue to acknowledge and shine a light on the huge contribution of our voluntary and community sector particularly during the ongoing COVID pandemic,” she said.
“Among the issues I will continue to address and promote in the coming year are Health, Housing, Climate Action, Biodiversity, Environment & Litter, Tourism & Investment, 300 Year Horse Fair Centenary, in addition to the ongoing Covid response and Ukrainian supports.”
Cllr Parsons starts her year in the chair by setting down a motion to request Galway County Council apply for funding to progress a feasibility study on the development of an Accessible Swim and Water Recreational Area in Ballinasloe which she believes will be ‘a game changer’.
“I sincerely thank my Cllr colleagues for their full support on this issue,” said the new Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal Council.
