New Longford chair for Ballymahon, Cllr Skelly, will work to resolve ‘problems’

Newtowncashel Councillor Martin Skelly has said he is honoured to be appointed Cathaoirleach of Ballymahon Municipal District.

The Fine Gael representative replaced outgoing chair Cllr Pat O'Toole at the annual general meeting held in the local authority chamber on Monday.

Cllr Skelly, who was elected for the first time in the 2024 local elections, was proposed by his party colleague Cllr Paul Ross and seconded by Independent Cllr Mark Casey.

They both said Cllr Skelly had demonstrated he had the work ethic, dedication and leadership skills to excel in the position.
New Cathaoirleach, Cllr Skelly thanked Cllr Ross and Cllr Casey for nominating and seconding him and he described it as a 'proud day' and he said he had learnt a lot about how the municipal district area worked.

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"If you asked me 18 months ago if I had any thoughts, dreams or aspirations of being here or did I think it would be on the agenda I would have said absolutely no.

"But, being elected last June was a proud day and obviously has given me a great focus for the area of south Longford for one and politics aside I have got a great insight into the workings of Longford County Council.

“I would have previously had absolutely no concept at all of the amount of work that goes on so my eyes have been opened and it has been great to work with the whole team over the last 12-months.”

Cllr Skelly said while a couple of people had mentioned that both himself and Cllr Sean Mimnagh had 'come into the county council quite seamlessly' he wanted to pay tribute to the other four local representatives Cllr O'Toole, Cllr Mick Cahill, Cllr Ross and Cllr Casey.

“I think the grounding they have given us, the support and encouragement at all times and making us feel part of a team it's been wonderful.”

Cllr Skelly said there were numerous challenges in South Longford including efforts to deliver the new N55 Ballymahon to Athlone Road.

“The water situation has been mentioned and the roads are a serious situation and that main road is one that would keep people awake at night.

“I think we have some challenges over the next 12-months, but hopefully we will be working towards the resolution of the problems that are there.

Cllr O'Toole congratulated Cllr Skelly on his new role.

"I have no doubt you will make an excellent job of chairing the Ballymahon MD and I wish you and your family well in that regard."

Fianna Fáil Cllr Sean Mimnagh also wished Cllr Skelly the very best of luck on his elevation to cathaoirleach.

"With being chairman there is an awful lot of committees there, I'm sure he'll embrace it and I'm looking forward to working with you going forward and the best of luck."

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Cllr Mimnagh also praised Cllr O'Toole for doing a great job as the outgoing chair.

"You did a great job and I am looking forward to working with you for the next four years and into the next term as well hopefully if things go well going forward."