Council’s 'Local Lens' podcast returns for new season

Following a successful first season, Meath County Council’s podcast series Local Lens returns this week with contributions from An Cathaoirleach Cllr Wayne Harding, Cllr Sarah Reilly, and Virgin Media political correspondent and Meath Chronicle Political Columnist, Gavan Reilly.

Hosted by Elaine Keogh, the Season 2 opener sees An Cathaoirleach Cllr Wayne Harding discussing the importance of listening to the voters, why and where there is transparency and accountability for councillors and how communications, specifically social media use, has changed for councillors in recent years.

Speaking on the podcast, Cllr Harding says that, despite the public and media seeing photo-calls and ribbon cuttings, most of a councillor’s job takes place in private working with constituents.

“The real work we do is incredibly confidential”, explains the Cathaoirleach. “It’s between people who need your help, and you never disclose that.” Reflecting on his career as a councillor spanning almost 20 years, Cllr Harding adds, “I don't think I've met one councillor over that time that didn't genuinely care about the constituents that elected him or her.”

The ominous side of social media and how some people use it to target local politicians is also discussed. Cllr Sarah Reilly talks about feeling unsafe after her home address and phone number were shared on social media last year by people who did not agree with one of her posts.

One post suggesting that “the people of Kells need to sort Sarah Reilly out” concerned her, in particular.

Despite this, Cllr Reilly states she loves her job working with her constituents in the Kells Municipal District.

Virgin Media News Political Correspondent Gavan Reilly, who is from Co. Meath, also discusses social media and how he used it in a positive way to explain Ireland’s electoral system.

His children’s liking for brightly coloured smarties inspired his viral videos explaining how the single transferrable vote moves between candidates.

He also discusses why he feels local elections are precious.

Did You Vote Yet – In Conversation with the Cathaoirleach will be available on all major streaming platforms and wherever you get your podcasts on Tuesday, 6th January 2026.