Civic chains change hands as Waterford welcomes a familiar face as the newly elected Mayor
Long-time Councillor chosen to lead city and county for the year ahead
Waterford has a new Mayor at the helm as Councillor Seamus Ryan takes up the chain of office, pledging a year focused on diversity, major investment, and progress on crucial local issues.
Cllr. Ryan was elected at the AGM of Waterford City and County Council in City Hall on Thursday, succeeding Cllr. Jason Murphy after what he described as "an exceptional year."
A long-time Labour Party member who first entered local politics in 1999, Cllr. Ryan previously served as Mayor of Waterford in 2004/2005 and as Mayor of the Metropolitan District in 2021/2022.
Speaking after his election, Cllr. Ryan said: "It would be my intention that my Mayoralty over the next year will embrace the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in keeping with the principles of this Council."
He also highlighted significant investment plans for the city and county.
"Only two weeks ago, this Council unanimously adopted a Capital Plan that will see expenditure of nearly €700 million over the next three years across every facet of society and benefitting every geographical area of the city and county," he said.
"We will also see significant expenditure in a number of regeneration projects right across the county. These are just some examples of the areas that will see significant investment over the next few years and is an example of your council working for you."
Cllr. Ryan said he hopes his year as Mayor will be "positive, impactful and fulfilling," and signalled a strong focus on Waterford's key issues. These include the ongoing campaign for strategic Government investment in Waterford Airport, addressing housing challenges, and securing the long-awaited 24/7 cardiac care service for the region.
He also expressed solidarity with international issues, stating his support for "the people of Palestine and Gaza."
Outside politics, Cllr. Ryan has a well-known interest in arts and culture, having worked as a librarian at SETU and served on the boards of Garter Lane and the Theatre Royal. He is married to Deirdre and has three children, Cliodhna, Aibhilin and Colm, and a son-in-law, Alee.
Also elected on Thursday was Cllr. John Pratt as Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County. Earlier this month, Cllr. Adam Wyse was elected as Mayor of Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr. John O'Leary as Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh District, and Cllr. Niamh O'Donovan as Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan/Lismore District.