New Kilkenny councillor reacts to ‘nerve-wracking’ election

Jenny Catt Slattery (FF) is looking forward to getting to work as a councillor following her election in the Piltown LEA.

Cllr Catt Slattery managed to claim the final seat in the area after an intense battle with Sinn Féin candidate Natasha Newsome Drennan.

“It was very exciting and nerve-wrecking,” she told Kilkenny Live.

“We had a fantastic team and I’d like to thank every single one of them for their support throughout the campaign.”

Cllr Catt Slattery’s decision to stand for Fianna Fáil came from her lifelong passion for politics, particularly within the FF sphere.

“This interest was significantly shaped by my father, Mick Slattery, who was an unwavering supporter of the party,” she said.

“His active involvement in local campaigns, especially canvassing for Liam Aylward at the outset of his political career, left a lasting impression on me.”

The first-time councillor also paid tribute to the support she received from recent councillor Eamon Aylward, who opted not to seek re-election, as well as the wider Aylward family.

“Liam’s knowledge was a great help,” she said.

“I had the privilege of accompanying both Liam and Bobby Aylward during their canvassing campaigns.

“This experience ignited my belief in the transformative power of local representation on broader political platforms.”

As the dust begins to settle on an intense election campaign, Cllr Catt Slattery stated she is now excited to get to work.

“I bring with me a personal commitment to represent with integrity and provide a dedicated service to each and every resident of South Kilkenny,” she said.

“I am eager to roll up my sleeves and focus on revitalising our villages, ensuring essential care for our elderly and vulnerable, and secure funding for vital infrastructure projects.”