Galway city has elected its first left-wing mayor in 14 years with the appointment of Labour Party alderman Ms Catherine Connolly to the post of first citizen.
Alderman Connolly, who arrived on a bicycle, was elected by nine votes to six at a packed city council meeting last night. She beat the only other nominee, PD councillor Mr Donal Lyons.
Her nomination was supported by her three Labour councillors, including her sister Cllr Colette Connolly, Fine Gael, Sinn Féin and the Greens. The City Hall public gallery had to be extended to cope with the number of onlookers.
Sinn Féin's new councillor, Mr Daniel Callanan, arrived with a banner, the Tricolour, flags and three pipers. He refused to wear the civic robe, and criticised the undemocratic nature of the election.
