‘The best bit of advice my father ever gave - we have two ears and one mouth for a reason,’ says new Dundalk Cathaoirleach
The new Cathaoirleach of Dundalk Municipal District has revealed “the best bit of advice my Father ever gave me -we have two ears and one mouth for a reason.”
Cllr. Andrea McKevitt (29) became one of the youngest councillors to step into the lead role when she was elected at the Dundalk Municipal District meeting this week.
Nominated by her party colleague, Cllr. Sean Kelly, and seconded by Cllr. Shane McGuinness, she faced opposition from Sinn Fein councillor Sionnain McCann, who was nominated for the post by her party colleague, Cllr. Kevin Meenan.
But, after a roll call vote, Cllr. McKevitt was elected by seven votes to four with two councillors abstaining.
Accepting the chains of office she said: “I appreciate not everyone sitting around this chamber is happy with this result but hope that we can move forward and work together for the betterment of this constituency. I know occasionally we might have disagreements but at the end of the day we can all agree that we come in here to do our best for the people and area that has elected us.”
She began with tributes to her “home” - the Cooley Peninsula, saying: “I was looking through the records of previous Cathaoirligh of the Dundalk Municipal District, and I was genuinely surprised to discover that since the abolition of Dundalk Town Council in 2014, no native of the Carlingford side of the Dundalk–Carlingford MD has held this position, so this election tonight is for the people of the peninsula.”
Newly elected Vice Chairperson, Dundalk Municpal District Area, Cllr Liam Reilly pictured with Chairperson Cllr Andrea McKevitt and Chief Executive, Louth County Council, David Conway. © Paul Connor Photography.
“Being from the Cooley Peninsula comes with a great sense of pride, identity, and belonging. For the people of our area, representation at this level carries real significance, and I am deeply honoured to have the opportunity to represent our community in this role.”
She added that “growing up north of the Ballymascanlon roundabout teaches you two things very quickly, to be proud of where you come from and never back down from a challenge these lessons have and continue to serve me well through my political career.”
The support of family has been “absolutely vital” she explained, since she first entered politics.
“My family’s steadfast support through the rollercoaster of local politics has meant more to me than they will ever know — their advice, even if it is not always what you want to hear in the moment is invaluable to me. As my father always says, the best training in life is what you learn at home, and the best thing about that training is that it’s free.”
She added: “I’m sure that 29 years ago this is not where Mam and Dad imagined their daughter’s life would lead. But I know how immensely proud they are of both myself and my sister Ciara.
Looking back now, I’m not sure any of us realised at the time that those debates around the kitchen table over dinner during the Six One News were preparing me for council chambers. But the best advice my father ever gave me — and advice that has stood to me in politics and in life — is that we have two ears and one mouth for a reason: sometimes the most important thing you can do is listen, and I would like to assure my colleagues I am here to listen and support them over the next twelve months in this role.”
The new Cathaoirleach paid special thanks to her husband Conor. The couple tied the knot in December 2025.
“I’m not entirely sure he knew what he was getting into six months ago when he signed the green booklet. I think he imagined married life might involve a bit more peace and quiet and a lot fewer late-night phone calls, pothole discussions, and community events. I count myself lucky I have had no complaints yet about the silage dinners.”
She added: “I also want to say a very special thank you to my grandfather, Steffie who turned 94 just two weeks ago. He has been the driving force behind my political journey from the very beginning and one of my biggest inspirations in life.
His belief in people, in community, and in the importance of public service has shaped so much of who I am today. Nobody is prouder to see me sitting here tonight than him — and I am incredibly lucky to still have his wisdom, encouragement, and support every step of the way.”
She added thanks to her Fianna Fáil colleagues, and running mate, Cllr Seán Kelly and acknowledged outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Robbie Nash, as “an exceptional ambassador for this town.”
“I have greatly appreciated the time, encouragement, and support you have offered me and others during your term as Cathaoirleach.”
She recalled “the wonderful celebration which took place just over a week ago - honouring Dundalk’s finest The Corrs - an event that will go down in history.”
Nominations for Leas Cathaoirleach saw Cllr. John Reilly voted in after he deated Sinn Fein councillor Antoin Watters.