At a solemn meeting marked by respect and remembrance, Roscommon County Council welcomed Valerie Duffy as a new councillor on Monday.
Cllr Duffy succeeds the late Cllr John Naughten. Her co-option on to the Council was proposed by Cllr Domnick Connolly.
Monday’s meeting also heard warm tributes to the late Cllr Anthony Waldron, who passed away suddenly on the 9th of February, leaving a profound legacy in the community. All councillors present paid tribute to their former friend and colleague (RIP).
Described as a gentle and kind man, Anthony Waldron was deeply committed to improving the lives of those around him, championing both tourism and community development.
Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr Paschal Fitzmaurice said Anthony took the time to listen to the concerns of residents and was always ready to advocate for causes that addressed injustices. Cllr Tony Ward remarked on the personal loss he felt, having known the late Cllr Waldron for over 40 years, while Cllr Liam Callaghan reflected on the emotional weight of the day, noting the challenges of mourning a great colleague like Cllr Waldron alongside the impending co-option of a new member to fill the vacancy left by the late and lamented Cllr John Naughten.
Cllr Waldron’s legacy as a community leader who believed in harnessing people’s spirit rather than relying solely on funding, resonated deeply with all present, marking a poignant moment of remembrance for a man who dedicated his life to uplifting others.
A Day of remembrance
Cllr Domnick Connolly proposed Valerie Duffy to fill the Council seat that has been vacant since the untimely passing of Cllr John Naughten last October. In so doing, Cllr Connolly expressed his deep sorrow while acknowledging the necessity of fulfilling the late Cllr Naughten’s seat.
Cllr Connolly described Valerie Duffy as someone who has significantly contributed to local community efforts, mentioning her extensive volunteer work with Moore Community Council and on the Moore Community Playground project. He highlighted her role in securing funding for various local initiatives, including the refurbishment of Moore Hall and the development of the community playground. Cllr Duffy currently works as the Global Youth Work Programme Manager at the National Youth Council of Ireland.
Upon her official co-option, Cllr Duffy expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her nomination and selection process.
“It’s an absolute honour to be joining all of you today,” she said. “I am so thankful for the welcome and support from everyone attached to Roscommon County Council.”
Cllr Duffy acknowledged her friends and colleagues from Moore Community Council and Camcloon NS Board of Management, praising their contributions to local development. She expressed her intention to represent all citizens of Athlone Municipal District and the broader County Roscommon to the best of her ability over the next four years.
The new councillor also took a moment to honour John Naughten, reflecting on his remarkable service of over two decades.
“He worked closely with all of you to make Roscommon the best county it can be,” Cllr Duffy remarked, reinforcing her desire to continue his legacy of dedicated public service. She also remembered the late Cllr Naughten’s family, sending her condolences to his wife Breda, and their daughters Emma, Leah, and Orlaith, as well as to his mother, Mary, and his siblings.
