Mayo's Patsy O'Brien tops poll to launch general election bid

Hollymount Councillor Patsy O'Brien has topped the poll for the first time as an independent in the Claremorris electoral area.

The former Fine Gael representative has secured a tally-estimated 2,660 first preference votes in the six-seat south Mayo district.

Although it shows a drop of over 300 from the 2019 elections which he contested as a Fine Gael candidate, it represents a resounding victory for him, almost 900 ahead of his nearest rival, outgoing Claremorris Independent Councillor Richard Finn.

With Deputy Michael Ring due to formally announce his retirement from national politics in the next few weeks, it is widely expected that O'Brien will put his name forward for the next general election later this year or in early 2025.

The aforementioned Finn collected more or less the same vote as he did five years ago, indicating his political strength in the town of Claremorris.

Ballinrobe is on course to retain its two seats due to the solid performances by outgoing councillors, Damian Ryan (FF) and Michael Burke (FG).

Ryan has an estimated 1,603, a rise of 100, while Burke is on 1,445, a jump of 30.

Ballyhaunis Fine Gael newcomer Alma Gallagher is poised to win the seat vacated by outgoing councillor John Cribbin.

With 1,414, she has matched Cribbin's 2019 first preference return.

With five of the six seats more of less certainties, a fascinating battle for the last position is evolving between outgoing Fine Gael Councillor Tom Connolly, with 1193, and Knock-based Aontú representative, Paul Lawless on 1,093.