Dillon elected Chairman of the Fine Gael parliamentary party

FIRST-time Mayo TD Alan Dillon has been elected as chairman of the Fine Gael parliamentary party.

The former Mayo footballer and two-time All-Star defeated Kildare North TD Bernard Durkan in a vote which took place on Wednesday night.

Deputy Dillon will succeed the outgoing Fine Gael Chairman, Dublin Bay North TD Richard Bruton, who will not be seeking re-election.

In a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar congratulated his party colleague on his election as chairperson.

Deputy Dillon said he was 'really honoured' to have been selected for the role by his colleagues.

"I really look forward to a busy period ahead, to bringing new energy and new vision and to try and address the concerns of the electorate and look forward to working with you [Leo Varakdar], all the Ministers, TD, senators and MEPs to address these challenges."

Deputy Dillon was elected as a TD on his first foray into politics when he won the seat held by the long-serving Enda Kenny.

His profile was enhanced during the summer when he questioned former RTÉ star Ryan Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly as a member of the Public Accounts Committee following the RTÉ payments scandal.

In his acceptance speech, Deputy Dillon said that he was committed to ensuring that Fine Gael remains an effective political force.

"Fine Gael needs to evolve, and I believe I can contribute to that evolution as chairperson," he said.

"We must align our policies with the electorate's concerns and ensure that our community engagement translates into effective political responses. I'm ready to use my energy now as chair of the PP for this purpose."

The former Ballintubber club footballer also said that Fine Gael needed to be seen as a party that was energetic, visionary and attractive to young people.

"The impending general election presents both challenges and opportunities," he said.

"We cannot afford to become irrelevant as a coalition partner. We must continue to spell out the party's core values and communicate our objectives and ambitions effectively."

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar stated: "Deputy Dillon’s work ethic is commendable and as a former sportsman, he will bring a range of qualities to the role including dedication, commitment and resilience.

"But above all, the new Chairperson has already shown himself to be a valued team player. I wish him well in his new role."