Cllr Evelyn Parsons is new Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal District

Independent councillor Evelyn Parsons was elected Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal District for the 2026–2027 term at its annual general meeting held yesterday (Wednesday).

Cllr Parsons previously served as Cathaoirleach from 2022 to 2023, becoming the first woman to hold the role in the history of Ballinasloe Municipal District. She subsequently went on to serve as Leas-Chathaoirleach of Galway County Council from 2023 to 2024.

Speaking following her election this week, said she was honoured to once again serve the people of the Ballinasloe area in this role.

"It is a tremendous honour to serve as Cathaoirleach of Ballinasloe Municipal District and a responsibility that I take very seriously," she said.

"I look forward to working with my fellow councillors, Galway County Council staff, community organisations, businesses and volunteers to continue building strong, vibrant and inclusive communities across our district."

Looking ahead, Cllr Parsons said her focus would be on supporting community development, strengthening local infrastructure and amenities, promoting economic, tourism and recreational opportunities, and advancing regional cooperation across East Galway and the wider Just Transition region.

She said particular attention must also be given to ensuring that public services reflect the realities of rural life and meet the needs of all sections of the community.

"Our district has enormous strengths, but it also faces challenges arising from our rural geography, older age profile and disability profile," she commented.

"Fairness and balance must remain at the heart of decision-making. I will continue to advocate for equitable access to healthcare and maternity services, housing, transport and community supports.

"By working together, we can build on our strengths, create new opportunities and improve quality of life across the district."

A medical doctor with a background in general practice and community medicine, Cllr Parsons has served as a public representative since 2020 and has held a number of leadership and representative roles at local and regional level.

She currently represents the region on the HSE Regional Health Forum West, serves on Galway County Council’s Community, Irish Language, Gaeltacht, Tourism and Integration Strategic Policy Committee (SPC), is a member of the Women’s Councillors’ Caucus, and serves on the Galway County Public Arts Management Group.

She also previously served on the Regional Women's Caucus Subcommittee on Domestic Violence.