Derry Councillor Martin Reilly to chair ERNACT during landmark 35th anniversary year

ERNACT is pleased to announce the appointment of Councillor Martin Reilly of Derry City and Strabane District Council as the new Chairperson of its Board, while Councillor Fionán Bradley of Donegal County Council will serve as Vice Chairperson for the coming year.

Councillor Reilly has been a member of Derry City and Strabane District Council since 2004 and served as Mayor from 2013 to 2014 during the City of Culture celebrations. More recently, he served as National Chair of the Association of Public Sector Excellence. A longstanding and active member of ERNACT, Councillor Reilly brings significant experience and insight to the role, having served as Vice Chair in 2025 and played a key role in supporting the organisation’s work to advance digital transformation across European regions.

His appointment comes at a significant moment for the organisation as ERNACT approaches its 35th anniversary, marking over three decades of supporting interregional cooperation and delivering impactful digital innovation projects across the North West City Region and beyond. 

Commenting on his appointment, Councillor Reilly said: “I am honoured to take on the role of Chairperson of ERNACT. The organisation plays a vital role in supporting collaboration across regions to deliver meaningful digital innovation. I look forward to working with fellow Board members and partners to further strengthen ERNACT’s impact and support the delivery of practical solutions aligned with European priorities.”

ERNACT also extends its sincere thanks to the outgoing Chairperson, Councillor Jack Murray of Donegal County Council, for his leadership and commitment over the past year.

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Speaking on the appointment, ERNACT General Manager, Dr Caitriona Strain, said: “I would like to extend my congratulations to Councillor Martin Reilly on his appointment as Chairperson. I also wish to thank Councillor Jack Murray for his dedicated service during what has been an extremely busy and successful period for ERNACT.”

ERNACT continues to pursue its mission of developing and implementing digital transformation projects aligned with EU priorities. The network remains focused on supporting Europe’s transition to a digital and green future.