Westmeath County Council has elected a woman as the local authority's first ever female Cathaoirleach.
Fianna Fáil Councillor Aoife Davitt made history last night when she was elected unopposed.
It is the first time in the council's 126-year history that a woman has held the position.
In her address to the chamber last night, Cllr Davitt thanked her family, friends and supporters.
She also reflected on the importance of female representation in public life.
Referencing former President Mary Robinson's words, she said "the participation of women in politics is not a matter of charity or fairness; it is a matter of democratic justice".
Independent Ireland councillor Paul Hogan was elected Leas Cathaoirleach.
