"Education is the key to improving the lives of younger people and our citizens." That’s according to newly appointed of Cathaoirleach of the Cavan-Belturbet Municipal District, Cllr Aine Smith.
The Fianna Fail representative was recently selected to take up the new role, something which she has described as a "deep honour” and a position that she is "very grateful" for.
Cllr Smith was co-opted onto the local authority earlier this year following the death of her late father Cllr Sean Smith. Speaking to Northern Sound in relation to her new position, Cllr Smith says it is a "bitter sweet" moment for her, adding that she would of "never thought" this time last year that she would be in this role, prior to her father's death.
The local representative also revealed that she is "looking forward" to focusing on a number of key issues throughout the year ahead - with education amongst those at the forefront of her agenda.
According to Cllr Smith, she has a "keen interest" in major expansion works announced for St Bricin's College, Belturbet and St Mogue's College, Bawnboy, she added that education is the key to improving the lives of younger people and our citizens.
"I'm delighted that Education Minister Norma Foley has approved substantial funding for these two developments which are so important for the future of both these second levels schools and also for the local communities associated with both schools too," explained Cllr Smith.
"We've seen how communities have came together and fought to make sure both schools thrive and it's obvious that it is working, numbers have improved in both schools and it's just fantastic to see that."
