Duffy outlines key priorities in bid for Dáil seat

Cllr Mark Duffy, who is running for a seat in Mayo in next Friday's general election, has expressed his strong support for the inclusion of key regional priorities in Fine Gael’s manifesto. 

Cllr Duffy said he played a significant role in advocating for these priorities during his discussions with the party and emphasised their importance to Mayo and the wider region.

During preliminary talks with Fine Gael before joining the party, Cllr Duffy said he highlighted several critical issues to An Taoiseach Simon Harris. These included:

• The reopening of the Western Rail Corridor, specifically the Athenry to Claremorris line, to enhance connectivity between Mayo and Cork.

• A comprehensive review of the Pyrite Redress Scheme within six months of forming a new government including retrospective support and schemes for boundary walls.

• Initiatives to revitalise Mayo’s market towns to combat vacancy and dereliction.

• Increased investment in key regional roads such as the N26 (Swinford to Ballina road), N58 (Foxford to Ballyvary road).

• The creation of animal welfare positions within the county.

Cllr Duffy noted the transformative potential of reopening the Western Rail Corridor, stating: “Connecting Mayo to Cork via the Athenry to Claremorris line can be a game changer for the Northwest. This project will boost economic growth, tourism, and regional development.” 

On the issue of pyrite, Cllr Duffy pledged to support affected homeowners if elected to the Dáil. 

“Ensuring that homeowners impacted by pyrite have their voices heard and their homes included in a revised scheme within six months is a top priority,” he said.

Discussing road infrastructure, Cllr Duffy pointed to the urgent need for investment in key road projects, highlighting the Ballina to Swinford N26 and the Foxford to Ballyvary N58 as essential for improving safety and improved connectivity across Mayo.

A long-time advocate for rejuvenating Mayo’s market towns, Cllr Duffy welcomed the manifesto’s focus on this issue. 

“Supporting market towns is a vote of confidence in tackling vacancy and dereliction throughout Mayo,” he stated. “Revitalised towns bring new opportunities for local businesses and residents.” 

Cllr Duffy also emphasised his commitment to animal welfare, noting the manifesto’s backing for the creation of dedicated animal welfare positions in the county. 

“This recognition reflects the importance of caring for animal welfare and ensuring adequate resources for their protection,” he added.

Cllr Duffy said he is keen to deliver as a Fine Gael TD for Mayo.

 “I am committed to working tirelessly for the people of Mayo to see these vital projects come to fruition,” he concluded.