Pádraig Fitzsimons elected Mayor of Navan in Meath amid gender balance concerns

Irish Independent

19-06-2025

This marks Cllr Fitzsimons' third term as Mayor, having previously held the office in 2009 and again in 2021. At the AGM, he was nominated by Councillor Francis Deane, who highlighted the Fitzsimons family's deep political roots in Navan, spanning over 90 years. The nomination was seconded by Independent councillor Alan Lawes, who served as the outgoing Leas-Cathaoirleach. While Cllr Adenuga was nominated by Councillor John Duffy.
Councillor Francis Deane was also elected Deputy Mayor at the same meeting.
Cllr Fitzsimons paid tribute to outgoing Mayor Eddie Fennessy, commending his leadership over the past year. "His commitment and drive was incredible and the result of the elections showed that," he said.
He expressed his appreciation for the support of his colleagues and family as he embarks on another term.
He said: 'I look forward to working with all of you over the next year. I would like to thank my fellow councillors for all your hard work. In particular, I would like to thank my wife. We all know the commitment of the job and the pressure you can be under sometimes, so the support, love, and understanding from your better half is so important.'
'I'm honoured to have been recently elected and to get the chance again to serve the people of Navan and the surrounding areas.'
He spoke about continuing his family's political tradition, noting that his grandfather Pat, his father Paddy, and his uncle Jim had all served as elected representatives. "I hope I am fit to stand in their shoes," he said.
Looking ahead, Cllr Fitzsimons expressed enthusiasm about several major projects planned for the area. He said he was looking forward to seeing the development of the old St Patrick's School, the opening of the new bridge, new facilities in Johnstown, the Andy Brennan Park and Ramparts project, the Navan–Slane Greenway, the installation of new CCTV cameras, and the arrival of the train to Navan.
Cllr Adenuga who ran against Cllr Fitzsimons congratulated the new Mayor, however highlighted the lack of gender balance in the mayoral pact.
'To not have gender balance in the pact for the six years speaks volume of how we're not fair,' she said.
'I hope that before this term is over, that the 'boys club' would consider the pact and allow for gender balance.'
Cllr Lawes responded by pointing out that there had previously been another woman on the council, but when Fine Gael co-opted a replacement, they selected a man. "You should have raised this with your party," he said.
Meanwhile, outgoing Mayor Eddie Fennessy reflected on his time in office saying, 'serving as your Mayor has not just been a role or a title but a true privilege.'
"Together, we've navigated challenges, and celebrated triumphs and built connections that will last a lifetime,' he said.
'When I first took office, I made a promise to myself and to the people that I would commit to making the office of Mayor accessible to everyone and I believe we've done just that.'
"Engaging with countless community groups, disability service providers, resident associations, and sports clubs has allowed me to meet so many wonderful people. Each conversation, each meeting, each event has enriched my life and deepened my love for this town,' he added.
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