“Inspirational” Derry Mayor honoured by people of County Clare
5 August 2024
The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Barr, received a warm welcome in County Clare at the weekend, where she was honoured with a special Civic Reception led by Cathaoirleach Cllr. Joe Cooney.
Cathaoirleach Cooney was joined by elected Members of the Killaloe Municipal District at the reception, which was the first to be hosted by a Municipal District in County Clare. It was the express wish of the Elected Members of Killaloe MD that Cllr Barr should be the first person to receive such an honour, in recognition of her work in fighting for gender rights, racial equality, and housing.
During the visit, Mayor Barr also officially launched the Scariff Harbour Festival, and had the opportunity to pay tribute to the late Edna O’Brien. The renowned author was a native of County Clare and the civic reception took place in the Edna O’Brien library, just a few days after she passed away.
Speaking after the visit, Mayor Barr said: “I am deeply honoured and grateful to the people of County Clare, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Joe Cooney, and the Elected Members of Killaloe Municipal District for the prestigious honour of hosting the first-ever civic reception in recognition of my work. Receiving the highest accolade from the Municipal Council - and being the first to be honoured in this way - is an incredible distinction.
“The kindness and generosity shown to me were truly heartwarming. This support is a genuine recognition that we are stronger united as a community and share so much in common. I also had the honour to officially launch the Scarrif Harbour Festival, which has become a cherished part of life in Scarrif for over 20 years. Following in the footsteps of the former Deputy First Minister Mark Durkan, who opened the festival alongside the late David Ervine in 2003, was a privilege.
“I will never forget this moment and the profound impact it has had on me. Thank you, Clare County Council and Killaloe Municipal District, for your unwavering support and acknowledgment of my work. It means more to me than words can express.”
Cathaoirleach of Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Joe Cooney, said Mayor Barr was an inspiration. “Her work continues to inspire and empower individuals and communities, making her a formidable force for positive change,” he declared. “Through her tireless efforts, Cllr Seenoi-Barr has demonstrated the profound impact that dedicated activism and compassionate leadership can have on society.”