Barry Takes Neary’s Council Seat

Whitmore & Barry 21NOV16

atest press release from the Social Democrats, released on Monday, December 5th 2022…

The Social Democrats have confirmed the co-option of Greystones local Mark Barry as the party’s new councillor in Wicklow.

At today’s meeting of Wicklow County Council, Mark was co-opted to the council seat vacated by Jodie Neary, who recently moved to a new role in the renewable energy sector.

Mark, who is married with two teenage sons, has lived in Greystones for the past 17 years, where he is well known in GAA circles. He is the current manager of the Wicklow minor hurling team and is vice-chair of local club Éire Óg.

Mark’s love of sport also spills into his professional life. He works for Support in Sport Pitches Ireland, a company that specialises in the construction of all-weather and natural grass playing surfaces.

He also sits on the board of management of Greystones Community National School.

A member of the Social Democrats since the foundation of the party, he has previously canvassed for Wicklow TD Jennifer Whitmore during election campaigns.

Speaking after last night’s meeting of Wicklow County Council, Mark said: “I am looking forward to working with my fellow councillors and Jennifer Whitmore to improve facilities and services in our local area.

“I am particularly interested in the creation of more social spaces for older and younger people. Not everyone shares a passion for team sports, so there needs to be places for other activities where friendships can develop.

“As part of our climate action journey, I would also like to see a local country market created to provide greater connections between rural and urban communities in Wicklow.”

Cllr Mark Barry with Ingrid Darmody and his sons, Dean and Josh

Jennifer Whitmore congratulated Mark on his selection and paid tribute to Jodie Neary for her dedicated work on behalf of the Greystones community during her time as a councillor.

“While Jodie will certainly be a hard act to follow, I have no doubt that Mark is well up to the task. I am delighted to see him take on this really important role on behalf of the Social Democrats for residents in Greystones, Delgany, Kilcoole, Newcastle and Kilpedder.

“I have worked with Mark for many years on various local projects and have seen first-hand how adept he is at delivering on important initiatives for the community. Through his involvement in sport, he has always been committed to making our locality a better place for our youth and families.

“I look forward to working with him over the coming months and years.”