25 Feb 2020
Sunday 23rd February saw members from across the province travelling to Cultúrlann na hÉireann for the annual Convention of Leinster Comhaltas. After some refreshments and a chance to catch up with friends, the meeting was brought to order by Chairman Jodie Conway at 2 pm. Each of our officers shared reports detailing the work they had undertaken in 2019 and outlined how they hoped this work would develop further over the coming year. The officer’s reports were followed by our guest’s speakers. We were delighted to welcome Joe Connaire and Mary Whelan to speak to the assembled delegates. Joe, chairman of the Fleadh Cheoil Executive Committee, spoke with great passion about their plans for the 2020 Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Mullingar. Our second speaker the Chair of the Leinster Fleadh 2020 committee, Mary Whelan, echoed Joe’s enthusiasm when updating us on the plans for the Leinster Fleadh 2020 in Swords. After hearing our two speakers there is no doubt that these are dates for the diary!
The next item on the agenda was the Election of Officers. The following were elected
Cathaoirleach – Jodie Conway
Leas Cathaoirleach – Tom Dillon
Runaí – Millie Fitzpatrick
Cisteoir – Declan Hogan
Caidreamh Poiblí – Nicholas Dunphy
Treoraí na Gaeilge – Colm Ó hArgáin
Oifigeach na nÓg – Aaron Mackessy
Iniuchóirí – Sinead Tobin and Lolo Robinson
Toscairí Don Ard Chomhairle – Padraig Donlon and Millie Fitzpatrick
Congratulations to all officers elected wishing them the best for the year ahead.
An important item of discussion that came up on the day was the celebration of our 60th year of Leinster Comhaltas. Plans are currently being put in place for these celebrations, we look forward to marking this occasion with all of our members so keep an eye out for further details over the course of the year.
This was a very productive meeting allowing us to look back over 2019 and to look forward to what’s yet to come. Our annual convention is a very important event in our calendar as it gives members a chance to be involved and have their say. Thanks to all who travelled to take part in the convention. We are looking forward to a great year ahead for Leinster Comhaltas.
