‘This is for those who were told leadership is not for them’ - New mayor of Wexford sounds rallying call for women

By Simon Bourke, Wexford People

The new mayor of Wexford has dedicated her achievement to “every woman who has ever been told that leadership was not for them”.

In a rousing speech at Wexford County Hall, Labour councillor Vicky Barron assumed the position of mayor for the forthcoming year and sent out a rallying call for women who may be deterred from entering into a career in politics.

“As one of the few women to hold this office, I am acutely aware of the women who came before me — women who challenged barriers, demanded equality, and created opportunities for future generations,” said Mayor Barron.

“This moment belongs not only to me but to every woman who has ever been told that leadership was not for her. It’s for every woman watching in who has been told not to run for office. For those who think politics isn’t for them. Politics is for you. It must be shaped by you.”

Describing her election to the role - which came following a nomination from Labour colleague Cllr Biddy Walsh - as “one of the greatest honours of my life”, Mayor Barron pledged to serve Wexford and its people with “dedication, integrity, and compassion” during her term.

The new mayor has worked in education for the duration of her career and said she would use the experiences gained in the school environment during her time at the helm of the Wexford Borough District.

“I have seen how strong communities, good schools, supportive families, and public services can change lives. I have also seen the challenges faced by many families and communities and the inequalities that still exist.

Newly elected Mayor Cllr Vicky Clancy Barron with Sharon Clancy, Mary Clancy, Michael Barron, Tony Clancy, Zac Clancy, and Paul Clancy following the Wexford Borough District Council AGM in the Council Chambers on Tuesday evening. Photo: Jim Campbell. © Jim Campbell

“These experiences have shaped my politics and my values. I believe in a society where every child has the chance to thrive, where older people are respected and supported, where workers are treated fairly, where women are equal, where consent is always sought and never assumed, where diversity is welcomed, and where nobody is left behind.”

However, Mayor Barron was also cognisant of the challenges facing Wexford in 2026, particularly from an economic standpoint.

“We need more affordable housing. We need stronger public services. We need vibrant town centres, sustainable development, quality jobs, and action on climate change. We need to ensure that economic progress benefits everyone, not just a few.

“But I am optimistic. I believe that when people work together, when communities are empowered, and when leadership is guided by fairness and inclusion, there is very little that cannot be achieved.”

And tackling the dereliction in Wexford town centre is at the top of her agenda.

Newly elected Mayor Cllr Vicky Clancy Barron receiving the chains of office from the outgoing Mayor Cllr Garry Laffan in the presence of Town Sergeant Jason Tennant during the Wexford Borough District Council AGM in the Council Chambers on Tuesday evening. Photo: Jim Campbell. © Jim Campbell

“We cannot accept empty buildings and neglected streetscapes as inevitable,” she said. “We must be ambitious in tackling dereliction, supporting regeneration, and bringing life back into our towns and villages. Every vacant building represents an opportunity — for housing, for business, for community use, and for renewal.”

Focusing on projects she intends to see come to fruition during her term in office, Mayor Barron said she intended to establish a Mayor’s Forum of Wexford which will “bring together representatives from business, education, tourism, community organisations, the arts, agriculture, local government, and young people.”

“Too often, people work in silos despite sharing the same goals,” she continued. “The Mayor’s Forum will create a space where stakeholders can come together, identify challenges, share ideas, and develop practical solutions for the future of Wexford.

“There are so many people doing such good work in and across Wexford and we need to get those people together. Wexford has never lacked ideas. What we need is collective leadership, partnership, and the courage to think big.”

The new mayor thanked her fellow councillors for “this extraordinary honour”, however that honour did not come easily with some in the chamber believing they, and not Cllr Barron, should have been sat at the top table outlining their vision for the future.

Cllr Leonard Kelly. Pic: Jim Campbell

Cllr Leonard Kelly, who was fourth past the post in the 2024 local elections, had hoped to serve as mayor during the lifetime of this council. But he found himself on the outside looking in as Cllr Barron, who was co-opted following George Lawlor’s election to Dáil Éireann in November, 2024, was nominated by Cllr Walsh and seconded by Cllr Raymond Shannon.

“There are five opportunities to be mayor of Wexford and those should be given to the first five candidates past the post., reflecting the votes of our constituents,” said Cllr Kelly as he nominated Cllr Robbie Staples for the position of mayor.

That nomination was seconded by Sinn Féin’s Tom Forde. But Cllr Staples, dialling in remotely to the meeting, chose not to stand as mayor, thus clearing the path for Cllr Barron to stand unopposed.

Cllr Barron takes over the position of mayor from Cllr Garry Laffan who said it had been a “great honour” to serve the people of Wexford and described the Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025 as the undoubted highlight of his tenure.

Lastly, having rejected the nomination to be mayor, Cllr Staples accepted Cllr Shannon’s nomination as deputy mayor and will serve under Mayor Barron for the coming year.