PROGRESSING the transfer of Shannon Heritage sites has been earmarked as a key goal of the new Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District.
For the second time in his political career, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) was elected to the post of Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe MD with “turbulent times” nationally predicted in his opening address. “It will be turbulent times nationally, we don’t what is down the road for the next twelve months, we will be facing an election the year after, it will interesting, I am looking forward to the year”.
O’Callaghan referenced rising interest rates and mortgage costs, “the times we’re facing into are very difficult for the general public, a lot of people getting sick and worry is coming on people”.
Speaking in the Council Chamber on Friday, the Kilmurry publican paid tribute to his predecessor Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), his party colleagues Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) and Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) along with the local authority staff, Anne Haugh, Morgan Lahiffe and Derek Troy.
Labelling the addition of Shannon Heritage sites to the ownership of Clare County Council as his “grá”, Cllr O’Callaghan said that both Craggaunowen and Knappogue Castle were “very close to me and close to my heart, I would hope that those sites will be taken on”.
He recalled that his grandfather worked for fifty years on the crannogs at Craggaunowen and that many of his colleagues had immense pride in the area. “If those people came back today and saw those sites today they would be very disappointed”.
Ongoing work across the Killaloe MD was “very heart-warming with signs everywhere” for roadworks. Additional efforts could be made to deal with hedge cutting outside popular amenities such as Craggaunowen and the 12 O’Clock Hills, he said, “our amenities are very important”.
Projects that have benefitted from Active Travel applications have transformed areas, Alan stated. “Active Travel has turned my village of Kilmurry around, we have a lot of footpaths, new lighting and a pedestrian crossing, it has put a shape to our village. Quin beside me has had character added to it”.
Proposing him for the role, Cllr Hayes commented, “I know Alan will bring his own style to the office and continue the partnership we have as a team. The focus for him will be to bring projects we can deliver on”. Cllr O’Brien seconded this.
