Fianna Fáil score victory in vote for Udaras post

THE Fianna Fáil grouping on Mayo County Council has secured a victory in a contest for a seat on Udaras na Gaeltachta.

The beneficiary was Kilkelly Councillor John Caulfield who defeated outgoing Erris member Ian McAndrew (FG) in dramatic style.

The ballot had been tied 13-13 when the votes were counted at this afternoon's meeting of the authority after Sinn Féin backed Fine Gael in supporting Mr. McAndrew.

But the casting vote of the cathaoirleach, Councillor Richard Finn, ensured the position went to Councillor Caulfield. Fianna Fáil also had the support of Councillor Michael Kilcoyne and Councillor Michael Holmes.