Alan Dillon is new chairperson of Fine Gael

Castlebar-based TD Alan Dillion has been elected as the new chairperson of the Fine Gael party. 

Deputy Dillion was elected by Fine Gael parliamentary party members at a meeting held last Wednesday evening.

Deputy Dillon, who was elected to the Dáil in 2020, has served as the party's secretary for the past three and a half years. In assuming the role of chairperson, he replaces long-serving TD Richard Bruton TD.

The former Mayo footballer said he was honoured to take on the role and 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. 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 chairperson of the parliamentary party for this purpose."

Deputy Dillon 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. 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."

Welcoming the election of Deputy Dillon, Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said:

“Deputy Alan Dillon has proven himself and achieved a lot after only four years in the Dáil having held Enda Kenny’s seat in the 2020 election. He is an impressive public representative recognised for his diligence and work ethic.

"I look forward to working with him as we complete the Programme for Government and prepare for the forthcoming cycle of elections."

Mr Varadkar also paid tribute to Richard Bruton and praised him for his "phenomenal" service to the Fine Gael party.