Cllr Fleming honoured by the Council

By Dan Walsh at County Hall, Wexford

Cllr John Fleming was elected Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council at the annual meeting held in County Hall, Carricklawn, today (Monday) where the chains of office were handed over by the outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr George Lawlor. The new Leas-Cathaoirleach is Cllr Ger Carthy from Rosslare District.

Cllr Fleming’s nomination for the top position was proposed by Cllr Michael Whelan, who referred to his hurling, handball and sporting prowess of the past, when he suggested that Cllr Fleming “put on the Wexford jersey again and represent his county, district community and parish with high distinction.” Cllr Pip Breen seconded.

There was a counter proposal for Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan from Cllr Bridín Murphy and seconded by Cllr Frank Staples. Cllr John Fleming was chosen as Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council on a vote of 22-10.

In his maiden speech, Cllr Fleming thanked everyone associated with supporting him and promised to “represent the people of Wexford with passion and pride and support the many projects in the pipeline.”

First elected in 2014, Cllr Fleming served as Cathaoirleach of New Ross Municipal District Council for the 2019-2020 term and outlined a number of priorities including an increase in the housing supply, a review of vacant homes and service sites, job creation and looking forward to working with the Chief Executive Tom Enright who offered his “full support of the Council who have a busy year ahead.”

Cllr Fleming also acknowledged the presence of his family and friends in the chamber, Minister James Browne, ex-Minister John Browne, Senator Malcolm Byrne and his friend and colleague from the playing fields Superintendent Jim Doyle.

Then it was time to elect the Leas-Cathaoirleach. Cllr Lisa McDonald proposed Cllr Ger Carthy; Cllr Jim Codd seconded. Cllr Bridín Murphy was proposed by Cllr Kathleen Codd-Nolan and Cllr John Hegarty seconded. When the votes were counted Cllr Carthy was ahead 22-10 and duly elected Leas-Cathaoirleach of Wexford County Council, 2023-’24.

Outgoing Cathaoirleach Cllr George Lawlor introduced the 126^th general meeting and told the meeting that “it was a privilege and an honour” to serve the Council and he outlined a long list of achievements with the successful application to bring Fleadh Cheoil na h-Éireann to Wexford town in the autumn of 2024 being ‘slightly favoured’ as the highlight of his year.

Cllr Lawlor also showed appreciation for the support of the Leas-Cathaoirleach, Cllr Michael Whelan, Mayor of Wexford Cllr Maura Bell, his wife Yvonne and family, fellow members and officials, and in particular, the Chief Executive Tom Enright who led the tributes.

Mr Enright said Cllr Lawlor enjoyed a fantastic year in the chamber, representing Wexford nationally and internationally, and bringing professionalism and the efficiency of the Council to the fore.