Pauric McGarvey ’deeply honoured’ to become Mayor of Letterkenny-Milford MD - Donegal News

INDEPENDENT Cllr Pauric McGarvey said he is "deeply honoured" to become Mayor of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District.

INDEPENDENT Cllr Pauric McGarvey said he is “deeply honoured” to become Mayor of the Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District.

The Rathmullan-based councillor was formally elected at the AGM in Milford today.

He holds the role for the first time since he was co-opted onto Donegal County Council in 2023, filling the chair left behind by his uncle Ian McGarvey.

The new Mayor, or Cathaoirleach, was joined in Milford Public Services Centre by his family, including his wife Marie-Claire and his three young children, Mason, Cody and Hallie.

His ‘uncle Ian’ was also present, who was Ireland’s oldest elected representative when he retired from local politics at the age of 92.

Cllr Pauric McGarvey was proposed for the role of Mayor by Fianna Fáil Cllr Liam Blaney.

He said Cllr McGarvey has proven that he is “very capable” over his three years in the council.

The proposal was seconded by Cllr Donal ‘Mandy’ Kelly, also of Fianna Fáil, who agreed that Cllr McGarvey has “excelled” so far.

Independent Cllr Declan Meehan congratulated Cllr McGarvey on his new role.

“It’s a proud day for the Milford electoral area and I’m delighted for you,” said Cllr Meehan.

“I think you’ll be a fantastic representative for this area and I’m looking forward to working with you.”

Outgoing Mayor, Fianna Fáil Cllr Ciaran Brogan said: “You’ve carved out your own path. There’s nothing better in life than being yourself and that’s something you’ll be well up for.”

Cllr McGarvey said: “I’m deeply honoured to be the Mayor of the Letterkenny-Milford MD for the next 12 months.

“I’m grateful to my fellow councillors for your support in me, for my family supporting me for the last three years and my uncle Ian.”

He added: “Today, I accept the repsonsibility with commitment. I’m looking forward to representing a lot of good work on rural and urban projects.

“This MD is blessed with remarkable people, community groups and voluntary groups.”

Fine Gael Cllr Jimmy Kavanagh was elected Deputy Mayor or Leas Cathaoirleach after he was put forward by Cllr Blaney and seconded by Cllr Brogan.

They cited Cllr Kavanagh’s experience at both the MD and on the Letterkenny Town Council, with Cllr Brogan also commenting on his “unique sense of humour”.

Cllr Kavanagh said it was a “good honour” to come back to the role.

Independent Cllr Michael McBride said he has “seen many things happen” from motions brought to the council by Cllr Kavanagh.

The new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were warmly congratulated by their fellow councillors and staff.

Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription. Any time | Any place | Anywhere