DUBLINER Vincent Keaveny has been sworn in as the Lord Mayor of the City of London.
Keaveny becomes the city's 693rd Lord Mayor but the first Irishman to hold the office.
In his first public engagement, the 56-year-old led today's Lord Mayor's Show from the Guildhall to the Royal Courts of Justice, where he swore allegiance to the Crown to officially take up the role.
Delighted and honoured to have just taken office as the 693rd Lord Mayor of the City of London, at the silent ceremony in Guildhall. pic.twitter.com/JuRgtMlZPP
— Lord Mayor, City of London (@citylordmayor) November 12, 2021
However Keaveny, who has held the office of Alderman for the Ward of Farringdon Within since October 2013, was sworn at Friday's Silent Ceremony at the Guildhall following his election in September.
'Honoured'
Speaking after his election, Keaveny said that as the elected head of the City of London Corporation, he was confident in facing the economic challenges posed by the Coronavirus pandemic.
"I am honoured to be elected as the 693rd Lord Mayor of the City of London at such a critical time," he said.
"The City will play a key role in addressing some of the major issues of today: supporting the recovery, making the most of talented people across the country and tackling climate change.
Great spectacle & pageantry at the Mansion House as a fellow Dub, @VincentKeaveny is installed as 693rd Lord Mayor of the City of London. Comhghairdeas Vincent agus Amanda. Best wishes for your term in office as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress. pic.twitter.com/RRa7yeHfGE
— Adrian O'Neill (@AdrianGONeill) November 13, 2021
"The Square Mile has constantly reinvented itself throughout history to remain a world-leading business hub.
"We must rise to this challenge once again in the face of changing economic and social trends brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic, while also seizing new opportunities following the UK's exit from the European Union.
"I am confident that the City's future is bright.
Great to see our City thriving and vibrant with such a diverse mix of people and organisations; you can find a full list of them on the official website -https://t.co/5f5f6S2kfo#LordMayorsShow pic.twitter.com/UfLA608JMX
— City of London (@cityoflondon) November 13, 2021
"The UK's financial and professional services sector will continue to create jobs, drive growth and deliver investment across our country and beyond."
Irish contingent
Adrian O'Neill, Irish Ambassador to the UK, was among those watching today's procession from the Lord Mayor's box.
The event, which dates back to the 13th century, returned after its cancellation last year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.
The parade itself boasted a strong Irish contingent, with a host of companies with strong Irish links represented.
And we are ready for off……. #lordmayorsshow pic.twitter.com/C3JjUbAZ2R
— O'Donovan Waste (@ODonovanWaste) November 13, 2021
Among the 128 floats were displays from O'Donovan Waste Disposal, J Coffey Construction, JB Riney, Powerday / London Irish Rugby Group, Kelly Group and FM Conway.
Mayor's Banquet
In his role as Lord Mayor, Keaveny will act as an international spokesperson for the City of London, leading business delegations to key international markets on behalf of the UK's financial and professional services industry.
A partner in the international business law firm DLA Piper, Keaveny will also look to promote his 'People and Purpose' agenda, championing a purpose-led and people-focused financial and professional services sector.
Great to see the Foundation team involved in the Lord Mayor’s parade in London with Powerday. #powerday #charity #lirfc pic.twitter.com/ILStrY1jqO
— LIFoundation (@LIFoundation) November 13, 2021
The new Lord Mayor and his wife Amanda, from Co. Galway, will now take up residence in London's historic Grade I listed Mansion House.
His next engagement will be Monday's Lord Mayor's Banquet at the Guildhall, where Prime Minister Boris Johnson will deliver a speech.
