New West Cork councillor co-opted
A new councillor has been co-opted to Cork County Council by the Social Democrats for West Cork this week.
At a meeting of the council on Monday, Chris Heinhold was co-opted to the seat vacated by Ross O’Connell who has chosen not to contest the upcoming local elections due to work commitments.
Cllr Heinhold owns and operates two restaurants in Bantry town, employing 25 staff. He is a father of two young children, with another on the way.
Previously, Chris attended UCC as a mature student, achieving a first-class honour MA in international politics. He also spent time working with workers’ union UNITE as a researcher.
Speaking after Monday’s meeting, Cllr Heinhold said: “I am honoured to represent the Social Democrats on Cork County Council at such an exciting time for the party.
“I share the party’s vision for progressive policies in areas like health, housing, public services, and the environment. These issues will be key priorities for me as I begin my new role as a Social Democrats councillor for the Bantry - West Cork local electoral area,” he added.
Welcoming Cllr Heinhold’s co-option, Social Democrats party leader Holly Cairns said: “As a former councillor for the Bantry Electoral Area, I am delighted to introduce Chris as our party’s newest councillor. I have no doubt that he will be a passionate and hard-working representative for Bantry on the council.”
Deputy Cairns added: “Chris is truly committed to affecting real change in our community through progressive policies on health, transport, housing, workers’ rights, and the environment. He is a fantastic addition to our team in West Cork.”
Also welcoming Cllr Heinhold was Cllr Liam Quaide who recently joined the Social Democrats after leaving the Green Party last April.
He said: “Delighted to welcome Chris Heinhold to Cork County Council today. Chris is a business owner and a great addition to the Social Democrats #LEA2024 line-up. He is highly attuned to the crises in housing and cost of living that our constituents face, as well as our major environmental
challenges.”