Christmas message from Mayor of Clonmel, Cllr. Darren Ryan.
Issued : Sunday 18 December, 2011
Areas : National
Dear Citizens,
I am honoured to have the pleasure to serve you as Mayor of our very historic town for 2011/2012.
As Christmas and the New Year approach, it is perhaps time for most of us to reflect on the year we are about to leave behind. For many in our town and indeed across the whole country, 2011 will have been one of the most difficult years they have ever experienced. There are few who have not felt the effects of the crisis that has gripped the world economies and, sadly for some, those effects will be long lasting and deeply traumatic.
As we have attended many events over the last few months since becoming Mayor in June, the Mayoress and I have been deeply touched and indeed heartened by the way in which our communities have come together to help each other -particularly in these difficult times. I am proud to be a native of Clonmel and to have served you as a Councillor since 2004, but despite having been here all that time, in my role as Mayor, I find out about something new that is happening in Clonmel nearly every single day and it is really wonderful to encounter groups coming together to help each other and the communities in which they live.
I said a few moments ago that Christmas was a time for reflection on the year we are leaving behind, but more importantly it is also a time to be looking forward to the year that is about to unfold - a time of hope and of anticipation. Hope that we will have good health and that we will continue to enjoy the love of our family and friends. Anticipation that our town will prosper and grow, and to make this happen, as Mayor I am appealing to you all to please shop local this Christmas, and keep our shops open.
I want to send a particular message of good will to all those Clonmel people who have moved away from our town, you will always be part of our communities.
Finally, on behalf of the Mayoress Yvonne and I, we hope you have a Very safe, happy and holy Christmas and extend every Good Wish for 2012.
Cllr. Darren Ryan.
Mayor of the Borough of Clonmel.
