Major Mayo political shock as Blackie walks away from FF/FG deal

Castlebar councillor facing prospect of expulsion from his party

A major political shock has unfolded on the day the newly-elected members of Mayo County Council gathered for their annual general meeting.

Castlebar Fianna Fáil Councillor Blackie Gavin announced his decision to join the 10-strong technical group of eight independents, one Sinn Féin member and himself.

Independent Ireland Councillor Chris Maxwell is part of this technical group but Aontú Councillor Paul Lawless is not.

The significance of Councillor Gavin's decision is that it increased the representation of the technical grouping to 10 seats, which entitled it to two positions of chair of strategic policy committees over the council's five years term, thus denying FF and FG members of those roles.

When voting in favour of this situation, he has left himself facing the prospect of expulsion from Fianna Fáil.

Whether or not that happens remains to be seen.

Speaking to The Connaught Telegraph, he explained: "I am totally opposed to my party going into an alliance with Fine Gael.

"Fine Gael has let Castlebar down over many years and we are still awaiting the new extension to the emergency unit of Mayo University Hospital.

"I could not work alongside its elected members on Mayo County Council.

"I walked out away from the talks between our party and Fine Gael.

"FIanna Fáil is getting very little out of the deal compared to what it got from the independent grouping over the past 10 years.

"I could not accept that. I consulted with my family and supporters before making my decision.

"I intend to remain a member of Fianna Fáil. But whether or not action is taking against me by the FF grouping on the council remains to be seen.

"Either way, I won't be changing my mind. I will be focusing on Castlebar and getting what we deserve as a town.

"It has been neglected for too long and that has to change," he added.

From a Fianna Fáil perspective, the matter will now be brought to the attention of party HQ and a decision reached on Councillor Gavin's position.