McDonald elected chair of MD for second time

The election of a new cathaoirleach for Bailieborough Cootehill Municipal District saw the chain of office draped around the neck of Cllr Paddy McDonald.

In proposing Cllr McDonald for the post, Sarah O’Reilly described the Sinn Féin man as a “quiet and effective” representative. She noted that, having previously held the top post for both the MD and county previously, the Bailieborough native brought great experience to the role.

With no other nominees proposed, Cllr McDonald was elected unanimously. He echoed the outgoing cathaoirleach, Val Smith, in acknowledging “It’s not an easy job.”

“Especially in the year we have had. It was tough for everybody, but there is light at the end of the tunnel so, going forward, we will be in a better position to make things better for the Bailieborough Cootehill area,” he said.

Carmel Brady, who had seconded the motion proposing Cllr McDonald as chair, was herself elected as leas cathaoirleach, succeeding Aidan Fitzpatrick in the role.

Cootehill's Cllr Brady congratulated Cllr McDonald on his appointment.

“You call it the Bailieborough-Cootehill area; we call it the Cootehill-Bailieborough area,” joked Cllr Brady. “We beg to differ on what it’s called but I know you will work hard for the whole area. You are a gentleman to the backbone so I know if we have any issues we can have a chat and you will be up front and honest about it.”

Cllr Brady was also leas cathaoirleach the last time Cllr McDonald held the chair in 2016.

Cllrs Clifford Kelly, Aidan Fitzpatrick and Carmel Brady all spoke in support of Cllr McDonald’s elevation to cathaoirleach, as did Val Smith.

Reflecting on his term as cathaoirleach, Cllr Smith acknowledged the difficulties presented by Covid, and thanked the council staff who helped him perform his duties. He wished the incoming chair the best and vowed to help him to his utmost. Again, everyone spoke in glowing terms of the outgoing cathaoirleach.