Aontú wins first seat on Mayo County Council thanks to Lawless

Paul Lawless has become the first representative of the Aontú party representative to win a seat on Mayo County Council.

The Knock-based teacher emerged successful after the seventh count when outgoing Fine Gael councillor Tom Connolly was eliminated.

Lawless was elected on the final count along with Ballinrobe Fine Gael Councillor Michael Burke.

Speaking afterwards, Lawless said he was honoured to win a position that brings with it a great deal of responsibility.

He said the disappointment of experiencing defeat in previous election stood him in good stead as he learned a lot of lessons in defeat.

Lawless, who doubled his first preference return, also revealed he is not ruling out running in the next general election.

Burke has a record of 30 years of council service and his return to office will be warmly welcomed across south Mayo.

He said he is sad over the loss of a seat by his party colleague, Tom Connolly, and wished him well.

Michael was joined at the count centre by his wife Carmel and family members.

The six seats in Claremorris have now been filled.