Fine Gael selects Dillon and Keogh as Mayo election candidates
Minister of State Alan Dillon and Keira Keogh have been selected by Fine Gael to represent the party in the Mayo constituency at the next general election.
They were elected unopposed at tonight's convention at the TF Royal Theatre chaired by Minister Hildegarde Naughton.
Three nominees - Councillor Alma Gallagher, former TD Michelle Mulherin and Councillor John O'Hara - had withdrawn ahead of the convention, raising questions why they were nominated in the first place.
Without fielding a candidate in Ballina, Fine Gael has left the door open to local Independent Councillor Mark Duffy, who is expected to make a decision on his election intentions before the end of the month.
However, a dramatic return into the race by Councillor O'Hara cannot be ruled out due to pressure from the local organisation.
Fine Gael have now chosen 52 general election candidates in 33 constituencies.
A third candidate is expected to be added to the Mayo ticket shortly with the name of Hollymount's Martina Jennings strongly linked with the position.
Addressing delegates, Minister Alan Dillon said: “Having been first elected by the people of Mayo in 2020, I have worked to provide the best possible representation for all of my constituents within government.
“I am seeking re-election to Dáil Éireann because I want to build on the achievements of government over the past four years and work for more and improved services for the Mayo constituency.
“From my experience as a public representative, and recently in my role as Minister of State, I believe that I am the candidate with the drive, experience, and qualities to continue to deliver for Mayo.
“In my daily work as a TD, I understand the challenges facing the people of Mayo. I have worked consistently to provide services locally, and to secure investment in housing, public infrastructure and job creation here. These will continue to be my priorities”.
Westport-based Keira Keogh said: “Through my work as a behaviour consultant with 18 years of experience working with neurodiverse children, I feel a deep calling to public service and to standing up for our most vulnerable.
“For the past 12 years, I have successfully run my own consultancy, helping countless families and thrive – this has given me the opportunity to also advocate for the business community.
“Reforming early childcare, protecting our young people from online dangers and addressing speed-related deaths on our roads will be a focus for me if the people of Mayo choose to elect me to Dáil Éireann.
"Underpinning this work will be my commitment to supporting those who want to own their own homes and our farmers, who are the custodians of our environment.
“I am determined to bring our community together in a time when divisiveness is far too common. I want to ensure that every person in our community feels heard, valued, and supported and am confident in my abilities to lead and deliver if elected.”