Minister of State Alan Dillon with returning officer Ann Marie Courell.

Dillon submits nomination papers for general election

MINISTER of State Alan Dillon has officially submitted his nomination papers for the upcoming general election on November 29.

He lodged his papers at Castlebar Courthouse to returning officer Ann Marie Courell today (Thursday).

Minister of State Alan Dillon with returning officer Ann Marie Courell.

This is Minister Dillon’s second election, having first contested in February 2020. Since then, he has been a key member of the Public Accounts Committee’s scrutiny of RTÉ, served as chairperson of the Fine Gael Parliamentary Party, and last April was appointed as Minister of State in the Department of Housing.

Minister Dillon’s key priorities in the election include increasing the supply of affordable housing, making home ownership more accessible to families, couples and individuals across Mayo, addressing the cost of living challenges, and ensuring the people of Mayo have access to quality healthcare.

Recently, Minister Dillon announced the delivery of a €7.5m large-scale sporting infrastructure for Mayo, including an international standard athletics track and 4G all-weather playing pitches for GAA, rugby and soccer with floodlights. He has also emphasised his commitment to protecting the interests of rural communities and the interests and incomes of Mayo farmers.

Minister Dillon aims to promote Mayo as an international leader in renewable energy projects and champion rural and urban regeneration to revitalise towns, villages and streets. He hopes to enhance job creation in Mayo through the delivery of the new IDA Advanced Building facility, increase the number of childcare placements across the county, secure continuous investment in key infrastructure like roads and water, and advocate for additional supports for ATU Mayo campus.