Newly elected Cathaoirleach for Meath County Council outlines plans for term
The newly elected Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council has expressed his gratitude following his election earlier this month, outlining his intention to visit communities across the county and championing key infrastructure projects during his year-long term.
The Cathaoirleach, Cllr Wayne Harding, described his election, on a video posted on social media, as “a great honour” and thanked his fellow councillors for the privilege.
He said: “Over the next year, I hope to get out to all communities within Meath to look at the projects that the local authority is working on with communities.”
“The local authority connects with every individual in the county. And as a local councillor, you only really concentrate on the area that you're elected to, but the Cathaoirleach gives you the opportunity to get around the county.”
As first citizen of the county, Cllr Harding will preside over meetings, represent Meath at official events, and uphold the council’s policies. Representing the Laytown–Bettystown Municipal District, Cllr Harding has previously served as chairperson in 2009 and 2019.
Among the projects the Fianna Fáil councillor highlighted was the development of the Boyne Greenway, which he described as a major opportunity for Meath.
He said: “I did mention in my opening speech that I'm really looking forward to the progression of the Boyne Greenway. It's an artery that runs through our whole county and could be a huge economic driver for our county.”
He also reflected on his long-standing involvement in the Slane Bypass project.
“Over the last 20 years, I've worked on the Slane bypass, and that's not just going to affect the people of Slane, but primarily it will improve safety in the village but it will also have a huge impact on commuters throughout the Northeast,” the Cathaoirleach added.