Carlow Councillor hands over chains as Southern Regional Assembly gets new chair

Carlow County Councillor Ken Murnane has concluded his term as Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly, officially handing over the chains of office at the Assembly’s annual meeting in Waterford on Friday.

Cllr Murnane, who represents Carlow County Council, was succeeded by Cllr Andrew McGuinness of Kilkenny County Council, a Fianna Fáil councillor for the Kilkenny City Municipal District and three-time Mayor of Kilkenny.

Meanwhile, Cllr Peggy Ryan of Tipperary County Council was elected as Leas Cathaoirleach at the same meeting.

Reflecting on his new appointment, Cllr McGuinness said: “I am deeply honoured to assume the Chain of Office as Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly.

“The role and responsibilities of the Regional Assemblies continue to grow in importance, serving as a vital regional tier of governance and a leading voice in promoting the regional dimension of economic and spatial development.

“I look forward to working in close collaboration with colleagues from across the political spectrum on the substantial programme ahead. Key among our priorities is the drafting of a new Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy for the Southern Region.”

Director of the Assembly, David Kelly, congratulated Cllr McGuinness and expressed enthusiasm for working together with him and all Assembly members in the year ahead.

The Southern Regional Assembly plays a key role in coordinating regional development policy and overseeing the implementation of EU and national funding programmes across the southern region.

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