News

Oldest representative to head council

DONEGAL county council is expected to elect Ireland's oldest public representative as mayor when it holds its annual general meeting later this month.

Under a power sharing pact, independent Ian McGarvey who turns 83 next month is expected to become leader of the council.

He is expected to be elected under a power-sharing pact involving Fine Gael, Sinn Fein, Labour and the five independent councillors on the authority.

From Ramelton, he has been a member of the council since 2004.

Independent members' spokesman on the council, Terence Slowey said he believed the people of Donegal would be delighted with their new mayor.

"If the pact that was agreed some years ago holds and I see no reason why it should-n't see Ian elected mayor at the AGM on Monday June 24," he said.

He said Mr McGarvey had tremendous energy and would take on his duties with great enthusiasm.

"I think this also sends out a tremendous message to older people right across Donegal and Ulster and indeed Ireland," he said.

Meanwhile, Derry city councillors have elected Martin Reilly as mayor.

A native of Roslea in County Fermanagh, Mr Reilly (34) is a political assistant to SDLP MP, Mark Durkan.