In Pictures: Anna Gallagher emerges victorious in Donegal Town Mayor election

Anna Gallagher has been elected Honorary Mayor of Donegal Town, taking over from Pauric Kennedy who has been in the role since 2017. Click on the arrows to see Siobhan McGowan's photos from the count centre

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In accepting the chain in the St John Bosco Centre on Friday evening, March 29, Anna said: “To all the amazing voters of Donegal Town, I am very humbled. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. 

“Your trust and belief in me means the world, and I am truly honoured to have this opportunity to serve this wonderful town.”

Anna came out on top of a strong pool of candidates, with four others having put themselves forward: Billy Bustard, Justin Coughlin, Ciara Martin and Gabriel O’Donnell.

In announcing her candidature earlier in the month, Anna who is the wife of the late Garda Charlie Gallagher, said: “As a widow raising three children, I understand the challenges families face and the importance of strong community support.

“My work with children with additional needs has given me a deep appreciation for inclusion and opportunity for all. I have been active on the Bluestack Challenge Fundraising Committee, the Parents' Association, and a voluntary facilitator with Rainbows Ireland, supporting children coping with grief and family separation.

“Donegal Town has always supported me, and now I want to give something back. My focus as mayor will be on creating a cleaner, safer, and stronger Donegal Town for all.”

Following her victory in the Mayoral election, Anna spoke about how one story leads to another, and how she was honoured and grateful to take up her new role.

She had a particular word of praise for the outgoing Mayor.

“My thanks in accepting this chain from you, Pauric Kennedy, you absolute powerhouse of advocacy and service to this town,” she said.

“Pauric has been amazing, he will be a hard act to follow.”

Anna thanked her fellow candidates for putting themselves forward.

“It is by no means an easy task,” she said. “It wasn’t an easy task for me and my family; it was a big decision, and I thank everyone who put their name forward.”

She acknowledged Donegal Town Community Chamber for organising the elections, the St John Bosco Centre for the facilities, all the volunteers involved in the election and count, and her own team of campaigners and supporters.

Looking ahead to the next two years of office, Anna said: “Donegal is built on communities, hard work, a deep sense of pride. Over the next two years I look forward to working with you all to make sure our town continues to thrive, whether it’s supporting local businesses, improving services, or simply assuring that everyone’s voice is heard. 

“I will always be here to listen and to act. This role is not about one person, it’s about all of us working together to make this town the best we can. I am excited for the two years ahead and I know that with your support, we can achieve great things. 

“Thank you again, and let’s get to work.”

Outgoing Mayor Pauric Kennedy said: “It is a great honour for me to present this chain to our new Lady Mayor. It is in safe hands - as it would be in safe hands with any of the candidates. It was a great election and you all should be very proud.

“Thank you to everyone who came out and voted. It is great to see so many young people who voted.”

Having been Mayor throughout the Covid-19 pandemic and during Donegal Town’s 550th birthday celebrations, Pauric has represented the town with great leadership,courage,  compassion and pride throughout his extended tenure.

He thanked his family for their ongoing support, and had a special word of thanks for his mother Nancy.

“She is a pure rock,” he said. “Happy Mother’s Day, Mum, and indeed, all the mothers out there.” 

Pauric thanked the many people who had expressed kind words and good wishes as he steps down from the role, adding: “I did my best for Donegal; I always will. 

“I believe in Donegal Town and the surrounding areas, and I will always keep working for the good of everyone and try to do the best I can. It is a great town, great people, and we always have to keep pushing on and do the best for our community, for our future, our kids and for everyone, and to welcome people to Donegal. 

“It is definitely a jewel that is not fully discovered yet and maybe that’s ok, but we are so proud of our people, our place and our community.”

Mary McGettigan of Donegal Community Chamber made a presentation to Pauric, and thanked him for his commitment to the community and his work for the town over the years.

She told those gathered that there had been 1,775 votes cast. 

“We had a few spoiled votes and the candidates have agreed on those,” she said.

It is understood that some people voted first, second etc preference, rather than placing an X for their one preferred candidate.

The final results were:

Justin Coughlin 110

Billy Bustard 115

Ciara Martin 201

Gabriel O’Donnell 641

Anna Gallagher 695

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