Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council

Cllr Dolores Minogue was elected as the Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council for the 2026-2027 term of office at the Annual General Meeting at County Hall, Dundalk on Monday, 15 June.

Cllr Minogue succeeds outgoing Cathaoirleach, Cllr Seán Kelly. She was nominated by Cllr Rachel Kerley and seconded by Cllr Ejiro O’Hare Stratton.

The Ardee-based councillor becomes the first female to hold the office of Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council on two occasions, having previously served in the role from 2020-2021.

In her address, the newly elected Cathaoirleach, Cllr Dolores Minogue, said:

“I am deeply honoured by the support and trust placed in me by my fellow councillors in electing me as Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council.

“This is a proud day for me personally and for my family. I want to acknowledge and thank them for their unwavering support, encouragement and understanding throughout my time in public service. It has made this journey possible.

“Today, I am also thinking of my late father, who passed away four years ago. He often told us that his father, my grandfather, worked for Louth County Council. The release of the 1926 Census confirmed that family story. Seeing that connection, recorded in history, was a proud moment for our family, as I stand here today, I know my father would have been incredibly proud.

“Louth is a county with enormous potential. We have vibrant towns and villages, strong communities, a rich heritage and a bright future. As Cathaoirleach, I will do my utmost to support the work of the Council and to ensure we build on the progress that has been achieved.

“The year ahead will undoubtedly bring challenges, but it will also bring opportunities. I am confident that by working together, respecting each other’s views, and focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us, we can continue to make meaningful progress for County Louth.”

Leas-Chathaoirleach   

Cllr Shane McGuinness was elected as Leas-Chathaoirleach, succeeding Cllr Andrea McKevitt. He was nominated by Cllr Seán Kelly and seconded by Cllr McKevitt.

Previous Office Holders