Edel McSharry elected Cathaoirleach of Sligo/Drumcliffe Municipal District

By Philip Rooney, The Sligo Champion

Fianna Fáil Councillor Edel McSharry has been elected Cathaoirleach of the Sligo–Drumcliffe Municipal District for the coming year.

Speaking following her election at the Sligo-Drumcliffe Municipal District AGM, Cllr McSharry said she was honoured to have received the support and confidence of her fellow councillors and looked forward to working collaboratively on behalf of communities across the district.

“It is a great honour to be elected Cathaoirleach of the Sligo–Drumcliffe Municipal District. I am proud to represent a district with strong communities, thriving villages, outstanding natural amenities and enormous potential. I look forward to working with councillors from all parties and none to continue delivering for the people we represent.”

Cllr McSharry paid tribute to outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr Marie Casserly for her commitment and leadership over the past year.

“Marie carried out the role with great professionalism and dedication, representing our Municipal District with distinction. I would like to thank her for her leadership and service over the past year.”

Cllr McSharry highlighted the significant progress being made across the district, including the advancement of Active Travel projects in Carraroe, Rosses Point, Ballysadare and Grange, the development of Town Centre First initiatives in villages such as Collooney and Ballisodare, and continued investment in coastal communities and public amenities.

Cathaoirleach of Sligo-Drumcliffe Municipal District Marie Casserly pictured with Cllrs Marie Casserly and Thomas Walsh

“There is much to be positive about across our Municipal District. We are seeing important investment beginning to take shape in many communities, with long-awaited projects progressing and new opportunities emerging to improve public spaces, enhance safety and accessibility, and support tourism, local businesses and community life.”

Cllr McSharry also acknowledged the enormous contribution made by community volunteers, sports clubs, development associations and local organisations throughout the district.

“The strength of our communities comes from the people who give their time and energy every day to improve where they live. Their commitment is at the heart of so much that is positive across our district and deserves recognition.”

Looking ahead, she said a number of significant challenges would remain priorities during her term as Cathaoirleach.

“While progress is being made, we know there is still much work to do. Housing remains a major concern for many families, infrastructure must keep pace with the growth of our towns and villages, and road safety continues to be a priority across the district. We must also continue to tackle dereliction, including long-standing issues that communities such as Ballysadare want to see addressed.

By working together, I believe we can continue to make real progress for the people we serve.

Newly elected Cathaoirleach of the Sligo-Drumcliffe Municipal Distruct, Cllr Edel McSharry, pictured with fellow Councillors, family memebers and friends

“While responsibility for public transport does not rest directly with the Council, we will continue to advocate strongly for improved transport connectivity, enhanced Local Link services and better links for rural communities to ensure that no area is left behind as our district continues to grow and develop.”

Cllr McSharry also acknowledged the retirement of Municipal District Administrator Sarah McNamara.

“I would like to thank Sarah McNamara for her years of service to Sligo County Council and to the Municipal District. Sarah has held many roles throughout her career and has made a significant contribution to both the organisation and the communities it serves. She has always been approachable, hardworking and professional, and I wish her every health and happiness in her retirement.”

Cllr McSharry said she looks forward to working closely with Director of Services Jim Molloy, Area manager Michael Ryan and the engineer and road team, fellow councillors and council staff throughout the year ahead.

“My priority as Cathaoirleach is to build on the progress already underway across our district, to work constructively with all stakeholders, and to ensure that every community has the opportunity to benefit from future investment and development. By working together, I believe we can continue to make real progress for the people we serve.”

Outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Marie Casserly reflected on her 12 months in the Chair while also taking the time to congratulate Cllr Edel McSharry on her election.

Casting her mind back over the past 12 months Cllr Casserly said, “It has been a huge honour to serve as Chair and to represent the people of this Municipal District. What has impressed me most throughout the year is the pride people have in their communities and their willingness to work together to make them even better.

“We have seen important progress on the Town Centre First and development plans for Ballisodare and Collooney, helping to shape the future growth and regeneration of these communities. Housing developments in Grange and Carney have also progressed, helping to provide much-needed homes for local families.

Investment has continued in roads and infrastructure throughout the district. From resurfacing and drainage works to traffic calming measures such as the ramps on the Hazelwood Road, these projects make a real difference to daily life. Smaller projects are equally important. Improvement works at Rathcormac Cemetery and Clochór Cemetery in Calry demonstrate how local investment can greatly benefit communities. Investment in larger projects such as the Enniskillen to Collooney (SLNCR) Greenway is also very welcome and hugely significant for our region in relation to job creation and providing safe walking and cycling infrastructure for locals and visitors alike.

Cllr Cassserly noted that “Tourism, heritage and economic development have remained key priorities. The launch of the Visitor Destination Plan provides a strong roadmap for the future. The Sligo Food Trail Picnics have successfully showcased local produce while supporting businesses and jobs. We were delighted to see the relaunch of the Yeats Sculpture Trail at Hazelwood, and I would like to acknowledge the support of the LEADER Programme and all those involved in developing the Spanish Armada Visitor Centre in Grange.

“We also look forward to welcoming the Spanish Galleon replica to Sligo, an exciting opportunity to celebrate our rich maritime heritage and attract visitors to the county.”

“Looking to the future, I hope progress can be made on the expansion needs of Cliffoney National School through opportunities presented by the neighbouring Primary Care Centre site. I also hope to see advancement of the proposed extension for Grange Post Primary School, ensuring our educational facilities can continue to meet the needs of growing communities.

“Community organisations continue to be at the heart of everything that is good about our Municipal District. I would like to acknowledge the excellent work of Ballintogher Playground Association, Ransboro Development Association and Maugherow Development Association. Their dedication, vision and volunteer spirit are making a lasting difference in their communities.

“As we look ahead, I remain hopeful that we will see significant progress on Active Travel projects and Safe Routes to School initiatives. These projects have the potential to make our communities safer, healthier and more connected while encouraging sustainable travel choices.

As I conclude my term as Chair, I do so with pride in what has been achieved and optimism for the future

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all staff of Sligo County Council, both indoor and outdoor staff, for their professionalism, dedication and commitment. From those maintaining our roads, beaches, public spaces and community facilities to those working in administration, planning, housing, engineering, tourism, environment and management, every member of staff plays a vital role. Much of this work happens behind the scenes, but it is deeply appreciated.

“I also want to thank the many volunteers across our Municipal District. Whether through Tidy Towns groups, development associations, sports clubs, environmental initiatives, festivals, schools or community organisations, volunteers are the backbone of our communities and deserve our heartfelt gratitude.

“Finally, I would like to thank my fellow councillors for their support, cooperation and friendship throughout the year. While we may not always agree on every issue, we all share the same goal of serving the people of Sligo and improving our communities.

“As I conclude my term as Chair, I do so with pride in what has been achieved and optimism for the future. From Ballisodare and Collooney to Grange, Carney, Cliffoney, Ransboro, Rosses Point, Ballintogher, Maugherow and communities throughout our district, we have continued to make positive progress together - it’s the small things that make a big difference.”

Article Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.