‘We each have the power to make a difference,’ says County Mayor 

It is a privilege to have the opportunity to address you as your mayor and to look back on the year we have shared, while looking forward with hope and determination to the year ahead.

2024 has been an extraordinary year for our county, filled with moments of great pride, resilience, and togetherness. From celebrating global triumphs to weathering storms, we have shown the strength and heart that define us.

One of the year’s unforgettable highlights was the return of our Skibbereen rowers from the Paris Olympics. Their inspiring performance not only earned medals but captured the hearts of people across Ireland and beyond. The homecoming was a joyous celebration of their dedication, hard work, and the deep connection they share with this county.

It was a busy year for Cork County Council as we celebrated our 125th anniversary, stepping back in time to display the original council meeting minutes from 1899.

A total of 125 native Irish trees were also planted across various locations in County Cork serving as living symbols of our commitment to sustainability and community growth.

2024 was an opportunity to witness democracy in action with the local, European and general elections.

In June, the people of Cork County had their say, electing a new Council of 55 members. It was an incredible honour for me to assume the role of the Mayor of the County of Cork at the start of the new five-year Council term.

Travelling around the county, attending community events and meeting people is one of the best parts of being mayor.

I was proud to officially open two wonderful libraries in 2024, Leabharlann Oileán Chléire and Macroom Library. We also had the official opening of Briery Gap Theatre, several Safe Routes to School, and the reopening of Camden Fort Meagher.

There were plenty of awards along the way too; the Tidy Towns saw 26 medals for towns and villages in County Cork; Durrus was recognised at the prestigious Pride of Place Awards; Kinsale Library won the Conservation, Adaption and Re-Use category at the RIAI Architecture Awards; with Mallow Castle awarded the RDS Forestry Award. I was honoured to accept the Asia Matters Local Government Award 2024 in recognition of the vital role Cork County Council plays in positioning Ireland as a trusted and valued partner for countries in the Asia Pacific region.

However, alongside these achievements, we faced significant challenges this year. A series of storms, such as Bert and Darragh, tested our resilience. These storms are a constant reminder of the growing impact of extreme weather. I want to extend my thanks to our emergency services, council staff, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to keep our communities safe and to help where it was needed most.

It is important to remember that the Christmas season is not merely about gifts under the tree or the celebrations we enjoyed, but about the ties that bind us. It is a time to come together, to share joy with our loved ones, and to extend compassion to those who may be less fortunate. Our families, friends, and neighbours are the heart of this season. They remind us that, despite any hardship, we are never alone.

We must acknowledge that not everyone in our county experiences Christmas with ease. The economic pressures felt by many families and individuals remind us of the importance of reaching out and supporting one another. From ensuring food and essentials for those in need to sharing the warmth of friendship, there are countless ways to make this season brighter for someone else. I encourage you all to reflect on how you might lend a helping hand or a listening ear to a neighbour in need.

This holiday season is also an opportunity to support the backbone of our local economy our small businesses.

I urge you to consider buying local. Every purchase at a local store, craft market, or family-run business strengthens our local economy and preserves the unique character of our towns and villages. By supporting local, we contribute to the vibrancy of our communities and show gratitude to those who work tirelessly to serve us throughout the year.

Looking ahead to 2025, I am filled with optimism for our county.

As your Mayor, I am committed to working with all of you to ensure that our communities and county continue to thrive, that we provide opportunities for every individual and family, and that the spirit of generosity and inclusion remains at the heart of all we do.

Together, we have achieved so much in 2024, but our work is not done. Let us use the inspiration of this season to fuel our efforts in the year to come.

Whether it’s through acts of kindness, community initiatives, or simply being a supportive neighbour, we each have the power to make a difference. Together, we can create a future filled with hope, opportunity, and prosperity for all.

Wishing you a happy, healthy new year.