Development company elects new chairperson

Islandeady man John Cannon will bring a track record in corporate management and community work to his new role as chairperson of South West Mayo Development Company (SWMDC). A long-time head of purchasing at Baxter Healthcare in Castlebar, Mr Cannon has been a member of the SWMDC board since 2024.

Cannon is also chair of the Mayo Community Futures, a rural development planning network, which is coordinated by Mayo County Council but run from the SWMDC offices in Castlebar.

The newly-elected chairperson said SWMDC “plays a vital role in supporting communities, businesses, and individuals throughout the region”. Apart from managing the LEADER rural development programme in the southern and western regions of the county, SWMDC also oversees 350 workers engaged in Tús and community employment schemes. It also administers Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) funds to projects in communities across Mayo.

Established in 1991, the organisation has staff working on various social integration initiatives like Social Farming and Ready to Work, a programme assisting people with disabilities to return to work.

Manulla-based Donna Hyland was elected vice-chairperson following a recent meeting of the SWMDC board. Ms Hyland joined the SWMDC board in 2021, having been nominated to the board by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

A nurse by profession, Ms Hyland said she "looks forward to working closely with John as we continue to strengthen the organisation, support local development and ensure that SWMDC remains responsive to the evolving needs of our area".

Overseeing 70 full-time staff, CEO Sabina Trench said the strength of SWMDC lies in the “breadth of experience, local knowledge, and commitment of our board members". Ms Trench said: "We are very fortunate to benefit from their leadership and passion for local development in its broadest form."

Mr Cannon acknowledged the “outstanding contribution” of outgoing chairperson Thomas Fitzpatrick, a Hollymount-based farmer.

Under Mr Fitzpatrick’s chairmanship, SWMDC secured central government funding for a new multi-purpose community hub and glamping site on Inishturk Island, a project it’s delivering with the islanders. Southwest Mayo is also the partner of the local community in managing the redevelopment of the Valkenburg Hotel as Ballinrobe Town Hall, a project supported by €5 million in funding from the Department of Rural Affairs.