'Barriers are broken' Aoife Davitt makes history on Westmeath County Council
It has taken 126 years – but as of this week, Westmeath County Council is, for the first time, headed by a woman.
Cllr Aoife Davitt of Fianna Fáil was elected unopposed on Monday as the council's first ever female cathaoirleach. The role of leas cathaoirleach went to Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan.
Image 1 of 9
Historic moment: Cllr Aoife Davitt, who on Monday became the first ever female cathaoirleach of Westmeath County Council, and the council's new leas-cathaoirleach, Cllr Paul Hogan.Image 2 of 9
Cllr Davitt accepting the chain of office from outgoing cathaoirleach, Liam McDaniel.Image 3 of 9
The CEO of Westmeath County Council, Barry Kehoe, presenting the outgoing cathaoirleach, Liam McDaniel, with a book containing memories of his time in office.Image 4 of 9
The new leas cathaoirleach, Cllr Paul Hogan, accepting his chain from the outgoing leas cathaoirleach, Cllr Mick Dollard.Image 5 of 9
The new cathaoirleach and leas cathaoirleach, Cllr Aoife Davitt and Cllr Paul Hogan, examining their chains of office.Image 6 of 9
Congratulations for the new cathaoirleach, Cllr Aoife Davitt, from her husband, MJ Dalton, and son Michael Óg.Image 7 of 9
A proud moment for Liam and Margo Davitt, as their daughter, Aoife, takes the role of cathaoirleach.Image 8 of 9
The new cathaoirleach, Aoife Davitt, with a friend.Image 9 of 9
The members of Westmeath Counry Council.Marking the occasion, Cllr Davitt described her election as “not just a personal achievement, but a symbol of the progress our county and country has made.” She said her appointment sends a powerful message that “barriers are broken, and voices are heard” across all sectors of society.
In her address to the chamber, Cathaoirleach Davitt pledged to lead with “fairness, transparency and energy” and to ensure every community in Westmeath is “represented, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.”
She paid tribute to her family, friends, supporters and party colleagues, acknowledging the sacrifices made along the way: “It hasn’t been easy, and there are always sacrifices,” she said. “I want to thank them for all that they do.”
Cllr Davitt also reflected on the importance of female representation in public life, referencing former President Mary Robinson’s words: “The participation of women in politics is not a matter of charity or fairness; it is a matter of democratic justice.”
She said she stood on the shoulders of the women who had gone before her, and expressed hope that young girls across Westmeath might now look at the council chamber and see a place for themselves.
Praising the tradition of public service in the county, she said: “From Athlone to Mullingar, from our rural parishes to our vibrant towns, this council has helped shape the growth, infrastructure, and wellbeing of Westmeath.”
As cathaoirleach, she spoke of her commitment to building on that legacy and ensuring Westmeath remains inclusive, equitable and united. “We are entering a new phase,” she said, “one that must ensure that the territories we create are inclusive and equitable — and just for all.”
She concluded her speech with a message of gratitude and purpose: “Thank you for placing your trust in me. It is an honour I will carry with pride and purpose.”
Outgoing cathaoirleach reflects on “greatest honour”
Outgoing cathaoirleach Liam McDaniel, who served in the role for the past two years, said representing the people of Westmeath had been “the greatest honour” of his political career.
“I am truly thankful to have worked alongside such a committed and dedicated group of council members,” he said, adding that each of the 27 councillors brought their own passion, experience, and dedication to the chamber.
Reflecting on the last two years, he noted a number of key moments and achievements, including hosting Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in 2023, the opening of the Athlone Greenway Bridge, the continued expansion of Greenway infrastructure, and the official opening of the new secondary school in Kilbeggan.
A personal highlight, he added, was marching down Fifth Avenue in New York during the St Patrick’s Day parade, representing Westmeath on the international stage.