Martin McKenna is new President of Motorsport Ireland

Martin McKenna, from County Monaghan, has been elected as President of Motorsport Ireland and takes up the role as head of the governing body for four-wheeled motorsport in Ireland with immediate effect.

Martin McKenna

He says his priorities will be to continue the work of his predecessor, Joe Corcoran, in growing levels of participation in motorsport and ensuring that it continues to be a safe environment for competitors and fans.

"With more than 230 events due to be staged in 2015, it's important that we continue to look at ways of improving the sport for both participants and motorsport enthusiasts alike. Ensuring that we continue to make the sport a safe environment for all will be one of my priorities," he said.

Martin will represent the interests of the 34 affiliated clubs who are the organisers of the events. He will also represent Ireland's interests on the international front through the organisation's affiliation to the world motorsport governing body, the FIA, who recognise Motorsport Ireland as the sole authority for the sport in Ireland.

Mr McKenna added: "Through our seat at the FIA, I hope that we will not only influence the way the sport is governed internationally but we will be able to learn from other jurisdictions ways of making our sport more accessible to members of the public."