Tension over political ‘pact’ marks opening of Meath’s Municipal District AGM
The annual general meeting of the Ratoath Municipal District of Meath County Council opened on a controversial note, as questions were raised about an internal political pact guiding council decisions.
The meeting had just begun when outgoing Cathaoirleach, Independent Councillor, Nick Killian, started the nominations for the new Cathaoirleach and proposed Brian Fitzgerald, another Independent councillor who just celebrated 40 years in service, for the role. The nomination was seconded by Councillor Caroline O’Reilly from Fianna Fáil.
As the vote proceeded, Cllr Fitzgerald received support from his fellow colleagues; Fionnan Blake, Nick Killian, Maria Murphy, Gerry O’Connor, and Caroline O’Reilly. However, when it was time for Councillor Yvonne Everard to vote, she voiced some concerns before casting her support for Mr Fitzgerald.
Cllr Everard, who replaced former councillor Gillian Toole following her election to the Dáil, said that Ms Toole had been part of a “pact” within the Municipal District and expressed her disappointment that she had not been consulted or included in any related discussions since taking her seat.
Her remarks prompted immediate pushback - the outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Killian, said the meeting was not the appropriate time for such a discussion and declined to allow it to proceed further.
Cllr Maria Murphy (FG) also stated the issue was not a matter for the AGM while Cllr Blake (SF) suggested the topic could be addressed at a later time.
Before confirming her vote for Cllr Fitzgerald, Cllr Everard requested that her comments be noted. Meanwhile Cllr Fitzgerald voted for himself, making the election result unanimous.
The meeting then moved to the election of Leas-Cathaoirleach. Sinn Féin’s Cllr Fionnan Blake, was nominated by Cllr Killian and seconded by Cllr Everard. Cllr Maria Murphy nominated Cllr Gerry O’Connor for the role.
With the support of of Cllrs Everard, Fitzgerald, Killian, O’Reilly, Cllr Blake was elected Leas-Cathaoirleach.