Cllr Tony Murphy elected Mayor of Fingal, promising progress and collaboration

Independent Councillor Tony Murphy has been elected as the 21st Mayor of Fingal following this evening’s Annual General Meeting at County Hall, Swords. The AGM also saw the election of Cllr Luke Corkery (Fine Gael) as Deputy Mayor.

First elected in 2014 and a long-standing advocate for community development, Cllr Murphy brings extensive experience in supporting local enterprise, improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable growth across Fingal.

In his first remarks after his election, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Murphy said: “I’m deeply honoured to take on the role of Mayor and am grateful for the support of my fellow Councillors. I’m committed to working inclusively to ensure that every part of Fingal benefits from the opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you live in Balbriggan, Skerries, Rush, Lusk, Swords, Malahide, Howth, Portmarnock, Castleknock, Blanchardstown or anywhere else across our county, you should feel that your community matters and that your voice is heard.

“My priorities for the year ahead will be to build on the strong progress already made — getting more people into new homes, ensuring our infrastructure supports sustainable growth, and continuing to upgrade the facilities and services that underpin quality of life across the County. Supporting our local businesses and helping them to grow and succeed will also be a key focus. 

"When I look at Fingal today, I see a county full of opportunity. We are one of the fastest growing areas in the country. We are home to thriving towns and villages, world-class businesses, a strong community spirit and a young and ambitious population. I look forward to serving the people of Fingal with energy, commitment and enthusiasm over the coming year."

Cllr Corkery said he is looking forward to supporting the Mayor and working closely with his colleagues and Council officials over the coming year to deliver for the people of Fingal.

Outgoing Mayor, Cllr Tom O’Leary, addressed those in attendance, reflecting on the past year and thanking councillors, staff, community groups, businesses, and the many members of the public he met during his term for their support. He said: "This has been one of the busiest and most rewarding years of my life. The greatest privilege of this office has been representing the people of Fingal at home and abroad. Whether attending community events, school visits, sporting occasions, business meetings or international engagements, I have been constantly reminded of the ambition, energy and spirit that exists throughout the county."

During the AGM, members acknowledged the significant contribution of the outgoing Mayor and Deputy Mayor, recognising their leadership and strong engagement with communities throughout Fingal.

Along with election of the new Mayor, Councillors also elected the new Chairs of the three local area committees. These committees focus on the local delivery of services within their respective regions, addressing issues such as roads, litter, housing, playgrounds, and libraries.

The newly elected Chairs for this year are:

• Balbriggan/Rush-Lusk/Swords: Cllr. Tom O'Leary
• Blanchardstown-Mulhuddart/Castleknock/Ongar: Cllr. Eimear Carbone-Mangan
• Howth-Malahide: Cllr. Aoibhinn Tormey

In Fingal, there are 40 councillors representing the county, working across a range of parties and groups to serve Ireland’s youngest and one of its fastest-growing local authorities.