‘Rocky’ is in the chair

Cllr John Rocky McGrath was elected Cathaoirleach of Nenagh Municipal District at the district AGM last week.

The Newport man was proposed for the position by Cllr Michael O'Meara, who described his fellow independent and Lowry Team councillor as a “great personal friend”. Involved in politics for some 40 years, as well as in the GAA as North Board Chairman, Cllr McGrath is a “man who works quietly and efficiently for his community,” Cllr O'Meara said.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Séamie Morris said Rocky had “showed determination to bounce back” after an illness and would make an effective district chairman.

Looking forward to his 12 months in the chair, Cllr McGrath spoke of the “unity” between councillors and the executive members of Nenagh Municipal District. This differed to the situation of years past when there was “nearly always an upset”. Cllr McGrath said he would work to maintain this spirit of unity to the end of the district's current term.

Chief Executive of Tipperary Co Council Joe MacGrath assured the new Cathaoirleach of his support over the next 12 months, as did the district's Administrator Rosemary Joyce and Director Marcus O'Connor.

Councillors joined in wishing the new chairman well, including Cllr John Carroll, who spoke of Rocky's “measured and calm” approach to dealing with situations.

“You can bring people with you at times of great challenge,” Cllr Carroll said.

Also welcoming Rocky to the chair, Cllr Joe Hannigan said he and the incumbent went back a long way together in the GAA. Cllr McGrath was a “tough full-back” and Cllr Hannigan had no doubt that he would steer the district effectively over the next 12 months.