Following the general election last week, Ealing Council Leader Peter Mason has today (Wednesday 10 July) announced new roles in the council’s cabinet.

Councillor Louise Brett has been appointed as the new deputy leader, while Councillor Paul Driscoll joins the cabinet as portfolio holder for climate action. They succeed Councillor Deirdre Costigan, who was elected last week as the Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall.

Councillor Mason has paid tribute to Councillor Costigan and welcomed Councillors Brett and Driscoll to their new roles.

He said: “I want to thank Councillor Deirdre Costigan for her hard work over the last 3 years as deputy leader and as cabinet member for climate action, particularly for her central role on delivering our hugely successful bike hanger and school street projects, and on the unveiling of our plans to fulfil the historic ambition for a regional park.

“I’d like to congratulate Councillor Louise Brett in her additional role as our newly appointed deputy leader, and Councillor Paul Driscoll, who will lead on addressing one of our key priorities, fighting the climate crisis.

“We all look forward to working with them both as we continue to deliver on the priorities set out in our council plan.”

‘Looking forward to new role’

Speaking about her new leadership role, Councillor Brett said she was delighted at being appointed.

She said: “I’m looking forward to taking on this new leadership role, alongside my portfolio work, ensuring our residents have access to safe, secure, and genuinely affordable homes, as well as continuing to work closely with my colleagues in cabinet and the wider organisation to continue to deliver on our priorities of creating good jobs, fighting the climate crisis, and tackling inequality.”

‘Delighted’

Following his appointment, Councillor Paul Driscoll, the new cabinet member for climate action, said he was committed to creating streets that are less congested, safer, greener, and more pleasant for all.

He said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the new cabinet member for climate action. This portfolio is focused on one of the defining issues of our time. I’m particularly looking forward to building on our to commitment to improving active travel in the borough through investing at least £10million to increase cycling, walking, running, and scooting.

“I look forward to working with colleagues and the community to continue to deliver on our council plan priorities.”