Paddy Sexton replaced by brother Michael

Sinéad Hogan Fianna Fáil member and newcomer to local politics, Michael Sexton, was co-opted at Monday's monthly meeting of Cavan Town Council to fill the vacancy on the council following the retirement in November of his brother Paddy. The incoming councillor was introduced to other members by chairman Paddy O'Reilly, who described him as "a fine fellow" who is involved in a lot of organisations around the town. Proposing and seconding the co-option, party colleagues Paddy Conaty and Patricia Walsh echoed the sentiment, speaking of the new councillor's family tradition and involvement in business and voluntary groups. Cllr Sexton was welcomed by Cllrs Terry Argue, Des Cullen and Brian McKeown on behalf of the Fine Gael members, Labour and Sinn Féin. Town Manager Ger Finn welcomed him on behalf of the executive.Cllr Sexton thanked them for the warm welcome and spoke of his enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. "It is my belief that it's a good time to come in," he said. "I would like to put my shoulder to the wheel and say that anything I can do to help I will." Michael, who lives in Kilnavara, Cavan with his wife Bernie and their six children, was selected as the candidate at a recent meeting of Cavan Town Cumann Fianna Fáil. He is a son of Lily and the late Terry from St Patrick's Terrace, Swellan and comes from a strong Fianna Fáil background. Michael is an agent for Town of Monaghan Co-op and has a number of people employed in his business. His ambitions in his new role are to retain jobs in Cavan Town and promote new investment, to increase funding for the road network and footpaths, to improve local sports facilities and enhance recycling and environmental projects in the locality. Michael is a member of Cavan Gaels GFC and a life member of Cavan CYMS.