Fianna Fáil Councillor Seán Kelly was elected as the new Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council for 2025-2026 at yesterday’s Annual General Meeting at County Hall, Dundalk.

Cllr Kelly was nominated for the role by Cllr Andrea McKevitt and seconded by outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Kevin Callan. He was elected ahead of Sinn Féin Cllr Eric Donovan, who was nominated by Cllr Pearse McGeough and seconded by Cllr Kevin Meenan, following a roll-call vote.

Cllr Andrea McKevitt, also of Fianna Fáil, was elected Leas-Cathaoirleach, succeeding Cllr John Reilly. She was nominated by Cllr Emma Coffey and seconded by Cllr John Sheridan. Cllr McKevitt was elected ahead of Cllr Pearse McGeough, nominated by Cllr Kevin Meenan and seconded by Cllr Fiona Mhic Conchoille, also following a roll-call vote.

In his address, the newly elected Cathaoirleach, Cllr Seán Kelly, said: “I want to thank my fellow councillors for their support today. I am conscious of the trust they have placed in me and the honour it is to lead Louth County Council for the next year. I promise to fulfil this role to the best of my ability and to act impartially and fairly to all members, regardless of political affiliation or none.

“Over the past six years, I have witnessed the professionalism and dedication of those working behind the scenes to keep this county moving. The commitment shown by the staff of Louth County Council to public service is far greater than most can imagine. I look forward to working with each of them to build on this foundation and to show the people of Louth what an incredible organisation this is.

“Louth is a great place to call home, and we must never lose sight of that. Over the next year, I aim to ensure that we deliver our services to the highest standard and build meaningful connections with individuals and communities who may feel that the council has no role in their lives. It’s time to bring our work to every corner of the county and highlight all that we do.

“I also want to acknowledge the presence of my parents, Seán and Katrina, and my sisters, Denise and Louise, who were in the public gallery. This day is just as much for them as it is for me. Too often, we don’t take the chance to acknowledge our parents while we can, and I am proud and grateful that they were here to share this moment with me.”

Cllr Kelly also paid tribute to outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Kevin Callan: “I have witnessed, firsthand, Kevin’s work ethic, determination, and his ability to engage with people for the betterment of Louth. He is a natural leader, a wise and trusted advisor, and someone who puts people at ease. He has always given me practical, honest advice and looked out for me, something I deeply appreciate.”

Thomas McEvoy, Deputy Chief Executive of Louth County Council, added: “On behalf of the Chief Executive and all the staff of Louth County Council, I would like to congratulate Cllr Kelly on a proud day for him and his family. We look forward to working with him and can assure him of the full support of the management team and officials in the year ahead.”