Bray Councillor Caroline Winstanley Elected Cathaoirleach Of Wicklow County Council

Social Democrats standing in Wicklow continues to surge with a new milestone upon the election of a new Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council

Social Democrats councillor Caroline Winstanley has been elected Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council following its Annual General Meeting.

Cllr. Winstanley, who represents the Bray West electoral area, was selected by colleagues in what is a significant milestone in her political career just two years after first being elected.

Speaking after receiving the mayoral chain of office, Cllr Winstanley described the appointment as a proud moment for both her and her family.

She said she never expected to reach the position when she first put her name on the ballot. She also highlighted the significance of becoming the first Social Democrats representative to hold the role on Wicklow County Council.

She thanked fellow councillors for their support and expressed gratitude to the people of Bray for electing her, saying she intends to carry out the role with fairness, dedication and a commitment to serving all areas of the county.

Welcoming the appointment, Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore said it was a proud day for the Social Democrats.

She praised Cllr Winstanley’s work since her election in 2024, describing her as someone who has consistently worked to improve people’s lives in Wicklow.

Deputy Whitmore highlighted Cllr. Winstanley’s professional background in the disability sector and said her experience is rooted in community service.

She added that she expects her to be a strong voice on key local issues including housing, childcare, transport, healthcare, disability services and the environment.

The Wicklow TD also pointed to recent electoral successes for the Social Democrats nationally, including gains in Dublin Central and Galway West, saying the party is building momentum.