New Lifford-Stranorlar MD Cathaoirleach Harley seeks return to in-person meetings

Councillor Martin Harley has been elected as the Cathaoirleach of Lifford-Stranorlar Municipal District - returning to the position he last held two years ago.

Cllr Harley, who was Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council before the incumbent, Cllr Niamh Kennedy, was proposed by Cllr Patrick McGowan at the Lifford-Stranorlar AGM and was seconded by Cllr Martin Scanlon.

The meeting took place online, with councillors Harley and McGowan emphasising a need to return to in-person meetings.

“We're now three years online and that's disappointing for us as members,” Cllr Harley said. “It's just awkward because I personally feel you get more done in one year when you're in a room with people.”

Cllr McGowan added: “It’s very regrettable that we’re going on four years now that we haven't had face-to-face meetings. That must be quite unique in the country too.”

McGowan was elected Leas-Cathaoirleach, having been proposed by Cllr Scanlon and seconded by outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Doherty.

Congratulating Cllr Harley, Patsy Lafferty, Director of Housing, Corporate and Cultural Services with Donegal County Council, said: “I wish you the very best in your role and I’m sure you will have the full cooperation of the executive.”

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Cllr Scanlon thanked Cllr Doherty for his contribution as Cathaoirleach, saying: “Thanks to Gary for being a very fair chair this last year and we worked very well together.”