Gemma leaves MD for LGMA promotion

A fond farewell was bid to Gemma Keenan, Staff Officer, at last week’s meeting of Carrickmacross Castleblayney Municipal District, when Cathaoirleach Paul Gibbons announced that she was going to work for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA).

“It is a bittersweet day for us here in the MD, because Gemma is leaving us to take up a very well-deserved promotion.”

Addressing her directly, the Sinn Féin said: “You were always so helpful and friendly. I wish you all the best."

Cllr PJ O’Hanlon (FF) thanked Gemma for her help and co-operation, confessing that he wasn’t the most organised person: “Nothing was a hassle to her, she is extremely easy going. Gemma, you will be a massive loss to this MD. I wish you the best of luck.”

Sinn Féin’s Noel Keelan acknowledged the Trojan work Gemma had done during her two years as Staff Officer, capable and able. She was very good to the elected representatives, he said. “Thanks for your professionalism, Gemma, you are leaving the MD a lot better than it was. I wish you well in your new role. People who come to this MD are always progressing. What are we doing wrong?! Don’t forget about us,” Cllr Keelan concluded.

Cllr Aidan Campbell (FG) wanted to acknowledge Gemma for the help she gave to him. He observed that she had a quiet, unassuming personality. Marvelling at the amount of work she got through, he said: “You are very effective and efficient. We will be lost without you, but you can’t stop progress. That’s the way life works.”

His Fine Gael colleague, Cllr Peter Conlon said: “Selfishly, I’m a bit disappointed that you are leaving. Nothing stresses you out, and if it does, you have an excellent way of hiding it!”

Noting Gemma’s shy demeanour in the meeting, when she became the focus of attention, he added: “We are giving her plaudits and she is finding it hard to accept a compliment, but with Gemma, you always knew it was going to be done. Thank you for all you’ve done.”

Speaking on behalf of the MD Executive, Director of Services Cathal Flynn thanked Gemma for her work with the MD and wished her a long and prosperous career with the Local Government Management Agency, congratulating her on her promotion.

A bouquet of flowers was presented to Ms Keenan by Cathaoirleach Paul Gibbons, who are pictured with the elected members and MD Executive.