Fine Gael councillor Niamh O’Donovan has been elected Cathaoirleach of the Dungarvan Lismore District of Waterford City and County Council.

Councillor O’Donovan, who hails from Modeligo, received six votes in the election, comfortably defeating Sinn Féin’s Kate O’Mahoney, who secured three votes. The election marks a significant milestone for O’Donovan, who was first elected to the Dungarvan Lismore District in the 2024 local elections.

As Cathaoirleach, Cllr. O’Donovan will chair council meetings and serve as the civic leader for the district, representing the area at official functions and ceremonies. The role is typically held for a one-year term.

The Dungarvan Lismore District Council covers a significant area of County Waterford, including the towns of Dungarvan and Lismore, along with surrounding rural communities.

Speaking to WLR, Cllr. O’Donovan said her aim is to remain focused.

“It’s been a fantastic 12 months, and to have this platform now is a massive opportunity for someone like me who would have come in with no real prior knowledge, and even local politic,s and shamefully, probably even national politics. So it’s just fantastic to have the opportunity.”

The new Cathaoirleach will officially take up her duties immediately, with her first council meeting in the role expected to take place in the coming weeks.

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