Bantry businessman co-opted to Cork County Council

SOCIAL Democrats leader Holly Cairns TD was back in the council chamber yesterday as Cork County Council co-opted a new councillor from her party, Chris Heinhold, to fill the vacancy left following the resignation of Ross O’Connell.

Despite an invitation to return to her council seat from County Mayor Frank O’Flynn, the Social Democrats leader remained seated as councillor Liam Quaide proposed the name of Mr Heinhold to take the seat left by Mr O’Connell.

The new councillor, who owns two restaurants in Bantry employing 25 people, has two young children, with a third on the way, and has a first class masters in international politics from UCC.

“I think Chris will be a great addition to Cork County Council and a very strong candidate for the Social Democrats in Bantry,” said Mr Quaide.

His party leader, speaking after the meeting, said she was delighted to be in the chamber for the co-option of the party’s newest councillor in her electoral area.

“Chris is truly committed to affecting real change in our community through progressive policies on health, transport, housing, workers rights, and the environment,” said Ms Cairns.

The new councillor said he was honoured to represent his community at “such an exciting time for the party”.

“I share the party’s vision for progressive policies in areas like health, housing, public services, and the environment,” said Mr Heinhold.

“These will be key priorities for me as I begin my new role as a Social Democrats councillor for the Bantry-West Cork local electoral area.”