Daniel Pender announced as new Cathaoirleach of Bagenalstown Municipal District

At the most recent Annual General Meeting of the Bagenalstown Municipal District, first time Councillor Daniel Pender was announced as the new Cathaoirleach for the upcoming year.

Cllr Pender was elected to the Carlow County Council on his first time running in 2024, and has now taken the reins from Cllr Thomas Kinsella as the Cathaoirleach of the Bagenalstown MD.

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Speaking following his election Cllr Pender said:

"It is a huge honour and privilege to receive the chain of office at such a young age. Over the next year, I’ll focus on securing more housing and pushing for better mental health supports in our communities. I’m committed to representing everyone across the district."

He also added that he is excited to bring "fresh ideas" to his new role.

He also thanked a number of people during his election, firstly thanking his fellow Councillors for their "trust" in him in his new role and also his family who were in attendance at the meeting and his supporters:

"I want to sincerely thank my family for their constant support, and my supporters who backed me as an outsider candidate. Without their belief and encouragement, none of this would have been possible."

Councillor Willie Quinn described the new Cathaoirleach as the "new kid on the block" and that he wishes him "all the best."

Councillor Andy Gladney joked that he hoped he "wouldn't be as contrary as Tommy (Kinsella)."

With the outgoing Cathaoirleach Thomas Kinsella saying that he knows Pender will "do a good job."

Cllr Michael Doran was also elected as Leas Cathaoirleach of the Bagenalstown MD.