Cllr. John Cummins (FG), the new Mayor of Waterford City & County Council
At the AGM of Waterford City & County Council at City Hall, he was proposed and seconded by his party colleagues Cllr Damien Geoghegan and Cllr John Carey.
He previously held the role of Mayor of Waterford City in 2013/2014.
Speaking after his election, he paid tribute to outgoing Mayor of Waterford City & County Council Cllr James Tobin who was the first Mayor of the amalgamated authority.
He praised the Fianna Fáil man’s efforts to unite all of Waterford.
“His ability to work with all Councillors regardless of party membership or location within the county is to be commended and I assure the members that I will continue his work in this regard to ensure we become a fully united local authority for all of Waterford with no blurring of lines between east and west,” said Mayor Cummins.
He outlined his hopes and ambitions for his tenure, including the construction of a major retail development at Michael Street; further developing Waterford’s tourism assets; and building relationships with businesses, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA.
He said proposals for the North Quays represented “a unique opportunity” for Waterford.
Commenting on the recently established boundary commission review, he said it presented an opportunity for Waterford but also presented many challenges.
“It will take careful and delicate negotiations but I strongly believe we need to put our best foot forward in this regard to enable our city to expand in a sustainable manner on both sides of the River Suir,” he said.
“The county jersey should not cloud this proposal, but it must also be respected and respect should form a cornerstone of everything we seek to achieve in the coming year.”
Mayor Cummins said he was looking forward to a number of events during the year including the opening of Waterford City’s new fire station in Kilbarry; the new educational and library campus on the Carrickpherish Road; and the Respond! housing development at Saint John’s College.
He highlighted that he had turned the sod on these three projects during his term as Mayor of Waterford City.
He added: “The development of new housing schemes in Cathedral Square, Larchville, Ballybeg, Ballinroad, Cappoquin and Dungarvan are also to be welcomed and I look forward to the commencement of the courthouse extension, palliative care unit, primary care centre and the opening of the fantastic St. John’s River walkway as part of the flood relief scheme which is nearing completion.”
Mayor Cummins acknowledged the support of his parents, sister, extended family and friends and thanked his girlfriend Laura for her understanding and help.
In total, 18 public representatives voted for Mayor Cummins. Independent Cllr Joe Conway, who was also nominated for the position, received seven votes while Sinn Fein Cllr Pat Fitzgerald received five.
Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil Cllr John O’Leary was elected unopposed to the position of Deputy Mayor.
