Cork County Council has elected a new mayor following a unanimous vote by Full Council. Councillor Mary Linehan Foley was the first woman to be elected as Mayor of Youghal and is the third female Mayor of the County of Cork.
Cllr Linehan Foley’s late father Paddy Linehan, was a councillor for 43 years with Mary now taking up the mantle.
The new mayor spoke about her joy at becoming county mayor and recalled many of the hardships she suffered along the way.
"In life I have faced many challenges, such as being a lone parent at quite a relatively young age,” she said.
"I feel these experiences have equipped me well for dealing with the trials that one faces in life and has given me the skills and empathy to advocate on behalf of our citizens, many of whom live in challenging circumstances.
“Today I am honoured to have been elected as Mayor of the County of Cork and pledge to uphold the principles of the office and represent the people of Cork to the best of my ability. When you work at something you truly care about you don’t have to be pushed, the vision pulls you.
"That’s how I feel about this role. I look forward to working with you all over the coming year to advance a vision to provide world class services and supports to our communities and to make our county the best place in the world to live, work, visit and do business in.”
CONGRATULATIONS
Cllr Deirdre O’Brien congratulated Mayor Linehan Foley and wished her well.
“I know Mary a long time and I just want to congratulate her on this great honour. It is great to see,” she said.
