Five nominated to contest Mayo FG convention

Five names have been nominated to contest the Mayo Fine Gael selection convention ahead of the next general election.

They are:

Minister of State Alan Dillon, Castlebar.

Councillor Alma Gallagher, Ballyhaunis.

Keira Keogh, Westport.

Former TD and senator Michelle Mulherin, Ballina.

Councillor John O'Hara, Bonniconlon.

The convention takes place on September 15.

The nomination of both Mulherin and O'Hara from the Ballina district is an interesting development and, rightly or wrongly, suggests a split within the organisation in the county in regard to the best nominee.

However, it could also be a clever strategic move to ensure one of them is definitely on the ticket.

It is understood the party held unsuccessful talks with another elected representative in the town in respect of contesting the election for Fine Gael, a move that may not have gone down well with grassroots members.

Another surprise is the absence of Hollymount's Martina Jennings, the chief executive officer of Mayo Roscommon Hospice, who has been widely tipped to run for the party.

Keira Keogh, who stood in the local elections in the Westport electoral area, will be backed by Deputy Michael Ring, who is retiring from office.

Councillor Alma Gallagher was elected to Mayo County Council for the first time last June and is hoping to win back the FG seat for east Mayo previously held by Jim Higgins.

Minister of State Alan Dillon heads the team in only his second general election.