Duffy to run for Fine Gael in general election

BALLINA-based county councillor Mark Duffy is to run for Fine Gael in the next general election.

Cllr Duffy, who was elected to Mayo County Council as an Independent on the first count in the 2019 and 2024 local elections, confirmed he will run for Fine Gael in the next general election.

He joins a Mayo Fine Gael ticket that includes outgoing Minister Alan Dillon TD and unsuccessful local election candidate Keira Keogh.

“I am delighted to confirm that I will be contesting the upcoming General Election, seeking a nomination on the Fine Gael ticket for Mayo,” Cllr Duffy said in a statement.

“Over the past week I have held extensive negotiations and discussions with Fine Gael members, the Fine Gael organisation locallyas well as Taoiseach Simon Harris to get firm commitments on the delivery of long sought-after projects for Mayo.” 

He added: “While I have proudly served as an Independent councillor on two occasions, I believe that joining Fine Gael at this pivotal moment will enhance my ability, if elected, to deliver for the people of Mayo. Being part of a government party puts me in a position to advocate more effectively for our needs.

“I am excited about this new chapter under Simon Harris’ leadership and remain committed to serving the people of Mayo with dedication and integrity.”

The Mayo News understands that talks are also at an advanced stage between Fine Gael and Mayo Roscommon Hospice CEO Martina Jennings.

Ms Jennings has joined Fine Gael’s Crossboyne branch. While she has never held office, she is well-known across Mayo through her work with Mayo Roscommon Hospice. The Hollymount resident is also a former Mayo Person of the Year.

The manoeuvring comes amid growing speculation that a general election will be held in November, when five seats will be up for grabs in the redrawn Mayo constituency.

Cllr John O’Hara, Cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Cllr Alma Gallagher and former TD and Senator Michelle Mulherin withdrew their names from the process before Fine Gael’s selection convention, leaving the party without candidates in north and south Mayo.

Speaking to The Mayo News yesterday, Minister Dillon said Taoiseach Simon Harris had given no indication to party members as to when the general election would take place.

“It’s the Taoiseach’s prerogative, he hasn’t indicated, at any instance, even at parliamentary party level, what’s his preference,” said Minister Dillon, who said Fine Gael is ‘absolutely’ ready to contest a November election.

He said the number of candidates that Fine Gael decides to run in Mayo would be a matter for the national executive.

“I haven’t been privy to their conversations. Our focus here is to retain the seats that we currently have.”

Cllr Duffy’s main competition in north Mayo will be sitting TD, Minister Dara Calleary, who is standing for Fianna Fáil alongside Senator Lisa Chambers.

In south Mayo, Ms Jennings will compete for votes with Independent councillor Patsy O’Brien, who topped the poll in the Claremorris Local Electoral Area in the recent local elections.