BY RÓISE COLLINS
THE outgoing Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Niamh Kennedy, has thanked her colleagues for what she described as a great year as the county’s first citizen.

“It was a pleasure to represent the county and I was very proud to do so,” the Independent councillor said as she opened Monday’s Annual General Meeting in Lifford.

“We got to visit most of the county, welcomed many visitors to Donegal and made great friends and connections abroad.”

A memorable highlight of her term as Cathaoirleach, she said, was nominating Jim McGuinness and Enya for the well deserved Freedom of the County.

She reflected on being present for a wide range of events and services involving the council, from awards ceremonies to contract signings for housing developments across Donegal.

She acknowledged the hard work taking place throughout the council, from the dedicated tourism team to the emergency services, who responded to the floods that devastated her hometown of Killybegs.

Cllr Kennedy extended her thanks to the many groups she worked with over the year, especially the cultural services team, who helped facilitate a hugely successful fundraising concert for Donegal domestic violence services.

Cllr Kennedy also thanked the outgoing Leas-Cathaoirleach, Jimmy Kavanagh, for all his help throughout the very busy year.

She then shared her well wishes with the newly appointed Cathaoirleach, Cllr Paul Canning, and his family.

“It’s a great honour for you, your family and your area and I wish you all the best.”

She added that Cllr Canning had been a great help to her in the past and said she looks forward to working with him.