Councillor Andrew Reddington is the new Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway after being unanimously elected at the county council’s AGM.
A member of Fine Gael, Cathaoirleach Reddington succeeds party colleague Councillor David Collins from Turloughmore in the role.
He was first elected to Galway County Council at the 2019 Local Elections and represents the Tuam Municipal District.
A native of Claran, Headford, Councillor Reddington has a strong background in community development. He works with GRETB in Youthreach, is a part-time suckler farmer, and is actively involved in community and voluntary organisations.
Reddington is a community volunteer with the Headford St Patrick’s Day Parade and Christmas Lights committees, Chairperson of Little Acorns-Kilcoona Community Childcare and a coach with Headford GAA.
He is married to Bernie and they have three children.
Councillor Michael Regan (Fianna Fáil) has been elected as Leas Cathaoirleach at the AGM, succeeding Councillor Mary Hoade (Fianna Fáil) in the role.
Addressing elected members, Council staff, family members and friends following his election, Cathaoirleach Reddington outlined his priorities for the year ahead.
“I am honoured to have been elected Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, and I want to thank my fellow elected members for the confidence they have shown in me.”
“I will be fair and impartial in carrying out this role and will work to further strengthen the relationship between elected members and the executive, ensuring that the people we represent are heard.”
“Improving cooperation with Uisce Éireann will be a key priority for me, to help enable much-needed infrastructure projects to progress across the county. These projects are vital for the future growth and development of our towns and communities.”
“Galway must continue to work closely with the IDA and Enterprise Ireland to secure further investment from multinational and indigenous Irish companies.”
“We have huge potential across our county, and we must continue to promote Galway as a place to live, work and invest.”
Cathaoirleach Reddington said the year ahead would be an important one for Galway as Ireland prepares to hold the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
“This will be a very important year for Galway as Ireland takes up the EU Presidency and it is important that our county benefits from the opportunities that this brings.”
He also highlighted the importance of progressing major infrastructure projects. “I will continue to drive on the Galway Ring Road project and ensure that every effort is made to deliver this vital piece of infrastructure for the county.”
Cathaoirleach Reddington said he would continue to make the case for increased investment in local government. “I will impress upon central government that increased funding is required for Galway County Council to deliver the vital services that people depend on.”
“We also need to challenge the idea that rural Ireland is dying. I plan to fly the flag for Galway and showcase all the qualities our county has as a place to live, work and invest.”
Reflecting on his background in community development, Cathaoirleach Reddington said he wants to use his term in office to recognise the contribution of communities and volunteers across Galway.
“I have a strong background in community development, and I have always stood up for what I believe is right for our communities. During my term as Cathaoirleach, I want to celebrate the wonderful work carried out by volunteers and community and voluntary groups across County Galway.”
“I also will support the development of County Galway’s first County Sports Plan as well as assist the Local Community Safety Partnership in progressing the Local Community Safety Plan.”
