Keeping rural Ireland alive – Cllr Smith
Christmas always brings time to reflect on the year that has been, says Fianna Fáil councillor, Áine Smith.
For her, as a first time councillor and Cathaoirleach for the Cavan-Belturbet Municipal District, she delights at seeing the positive changes and improvements in the local area.
As a strong advocate for St Mogue’s College, Bawnboy and St Bricin’s College, Belturbet, Cllr Smith was delighted to see the “progression and developments” in both schools.
“Those who fought so hard for these schools, including my father and our local communities, can now see how these schools are thriving. Both schools have secured new accommodation for their growing enrolment and these buildings are a great sight to behold. Scoil Naomh Bríd Ballyconnell will also benefit from further investment by the Minister for Education,” she said.
Another highlight was the official opening of the Killeshandra Health Centre - a “vision that recently became a reality”.
“This again shows that local advocacy and communities working together are key. The Camino saw another successful year and is going from strength to strength. Ní neart go cur le chéile!,” remarks the fluent Irish speaker.
Huge plans for the Geopark will be “wonderful” for tourism in west Cavan predicts Cllr Smith. “We are so lucky to have such beauty on our doorstep and with the council’s and government’s investment in this development, we can be sure of increased numbers flocking to the county. This of course will have a positive impact on our local businesses, economy and employment.”
She says rural Ireland must not be forgotten and pledged to continue to push for more funding for local projects.
"Housing and roads infrastructure is key to keeping rural Ireland alive and such investment is to be seen throughout our Municipal District. Our local shops, food outlets and businesses need our support, and I would urge you to shop local in the run up to Christmas,” said Cllr Smith.
She praised the "great efforts and hard work" of local people in their own areas.
“Community spirit is alive and well. Sport is so important in county Cavan, and it is great to see more and more participation by women and new teams emerging and bringing success to their clubs,” said Cllr Smith.
2023 was a difficult year for the Smith family with the passing of the late Cllr Sean Smith.
“As I navigate my way through the council, I have witnessed so much work that he has done for our area. I want to build on his great work and continue to represent my constituents, as well as he did following on in his footsteps."
Thanking everyone for their support, she concluded: "Beannachtaí na Nollag oraibh go léir agus athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh in 2024!"