Sinn Féin Councillor Liam Doherty has been elected as the new Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of Lifford-Stranorlar.
Having served two terms on the local authority, this is the first time that the Convoy representative has been appointed as Mayor.
Cllr Doherty was formally nominated at this morning’s AGM.
He replaces outgoing Cathaoirleach Patrick McGowan, who was subsequently elected as Leas-Cathaoirleach.
Cllr Doherty said he looked forward to working with councillors and staff of the MD in the year to come.
He said: “I look forward to following on from Patrick on projects that have already started and to accommodate workshops and meetings as efficiently as I can.”
Cllr Doherty expressed his hope for progress on greenways, roads and the Twin Towns bypass.
“I know it’s a slow process,” he said. “But we have to keep the ball rolling on the projects and other projects coming up in the next year. I will do my best in the year to come.”
In his outgoing message, Cllr McGowan thanked his colleagues for their cooperation and hard work and thanked the council executive team and staff in all service areas.
Cllr McGowan commented that the year had its challenges, particularly housing and Mica. He welcomed the social housing projects in progress in the district. He also commented on the importance of getting the new defective concrete blocks scheme up and running and getting information out to homeowners.
Cllr McGowan highlighted the recent positive work in the district during his time as Cathaoirleach, which includes the Barnesmore Gap Greenway, the Castlefin to Lifford Greenway, the town and village renewal projects in Raphoe, Killygordon and Convoy and the 420th anniversary of Red Hugh O Donnell.
