‘An exhausting but really rewarding’ year for Mayor

OVER the last 12 months as Mayor of South Dublin County, Cllr Alan Edge had “an exhausting but really rewarding” schedule as he travelled around the county for various events and initiatives.

When Cllr Edge (Ind) was elected mayor by his council colleagues in June 2023, he was keen to get stuck into the role and proudly accepted the mayoral chains when he was elected.

“Being elected mayor as a first-term councillor without any background in politics was an incredible honour,” Cllr Edge told The Echo this week.

“As an Independent without a party behind me, it was also daunting but I’ve been really grateful for the support of a broad range of council colleagues and together I think we’ve worked exceptionally well over the past year for the good of the people of the county.”

He added: “Nothing prepares you for how busy the mayoral year will be.

“It’s an exhausting schedule but a really rewarding one as well. It’s been a thoroughly enjoyable 12 months, despite the hectic to-ing and fro-ing.

“Fortunately, the mayor’s secretary, Karen Gainford, is exceptional and she is always there to ensure the mayor is where they need to be at any given time.”

Among the many community visits, event and initiative launches and official openings, Cllr Edge said his proudest achievement during his tenure as mayor has been trying to combat discrimination and encourage diversity.

“My proudest achievement has been working to celebrate diversity and to counter discrimination through the Mayor’s Charter on People Seeking Asylum and the Fact vs Fiction leaflet which went out to every home,” he said.

“It’s so important, in a time when racism is on the rise, that we take a stand in defence of a fundamental human right and a vulnerable group of people.

“More than 80 groups representing many thousands of people from around the county signed up.

“Using my role as first citizen to encourage community groups to show leadership on this issue has been the highpoint for me and I hope my successors will take up the baton.”

Cllr Edge reflected on his sadness at his time as mayor coming to an end, but also his sense of fulfilment, and he offered some sage advice for the incoming mayor.

“Naturally, I’m sad to be coming to the end of my term, but it’s been a full and successful year so I’m ready to hand over the reins and to give the next mayor my full support,” he said.

“My only advice to them would be to enjoy the role, particularly the opportunity to meet the many wonderful people who make our county the special place it is.”