A NEW Mayor of Limerick City and County has been elected. Fine Gael Councillor Gerald Mitchell was today elected unopposed, with his candidacy prosed and seconded by Cllrs John Sheehan and John Egan.
Cllr Mitchell takes over the role as Limerick’s First Citizen from outgoing Fianna Fáil councillor Francis Foley.
Mayor Mitchell, who represents the Municipal District of Cappamore Kilmallock was first elected as a councillor to Limerick City and County Council in 2014.
The native of Hospital in County Limerick is a qualified auctioneer with more than 40 years experience working in the family business, EJ Mitchell and Sons Auctioneers, which is more than 100 years old.
Speaking following his election, the new Mayor of the City and County of Limerick said he intends to make investment in rural communities a priority during his term.
“More needs to be done to make the countryside more attractive for investment and residential development,” Mayor Mitchell said.
“In particular, I want to see pressure put on Uisce Éireann to improve sewage systems in our county towns and villages, many of which are not fit for purpose.
“This is stifling growth and investment and must be addressed as soon as possible if we are to stem the flow of young people from the countryside. They need options for employment and housing in their local areas.”
Mayor Mitchell also recognised the value of having a thriving city centre.
“In Limerick, we are enjoying strong economic growth, and I hope to see strong levels of investment continuing in our city. Limerick needs a strong city at its core. The benefits reverberate out across the county. A rising tide lifts all boats.”
Meanwhile, another Fine Gael councillor, Dan McSweeney, was elected as Deputy Mayor.
Cllr Sweeney from Patrickswell was first elected in 2019 to the Limerick City West electoral area in the Metropolitan District of Limerick at the young age of 20.
The Deputy Mayor said he has often been referred to as the “young fella” on the Council but said he has “learned the ropes of how to survive in politics very quickly”.
