Chain of office for Annie May

COUNCILLOR Annie May Reape is the new chairperson of Ballina Municipal District.

The Fianna Fáil member of Mayo County Council takes over the role from fellow party member Councillor Michael Loftus after his one-year term came to an end at today's annual meeting of the district authority in Crossmolina.

Reflecting on his year, Councillor Loftus recalled that he attended upwards of 45 events in the 12 months, arguably the biggest coming early in his term when the then US Vice-President Joe Biden came to visit Ballina.

Councillor Reape, who was proposed for the role of Cathaoirleach by Councillor Michael Smyth and seconded by Councillor Seamus Weir, said she was delighted to take the chain of office for the next 12 months.

“I know I'm not going to change the world, but it will be fun trying!” she quipped as she thanked colleagues for the 'great honour' of being elected chairperson of Ballina Municipal District.

Meanwhile, Councillor Smyth was elected to the role of Leas Cathaoirleach. He was nominated by Councillor Loftus and seconded by Councillor Gerry Ginty.