'Huge privilege' - first candidate elected in Claremorris

Hollymount Independent councillor Patsy O’Brien has been the first elected in the Claremorris electoral area, exceeding the quota of 1,954 on the first count - picking up 2,739 votes.

“It is a huge privilege to hold the seat for the parish and myself,” O’Brien told The Western People.

“That seat has been in this area for a long time and it is a great honour to carry the baton for another five years.” 

The total poll, which was 13,813 (13,676 valid), saw O’Brien being the only one elected on the first count with Richard Finn (Independent) 123 votes off the quota going into the second count.

O’Brien, who has been involved in politics for 47 years, added: “I am prepared to work for the people that have elected me and be honest with the people.

“I am delighted with the public’s support during these campaigns. They have never forgotten me and I’ve never forgotten them.”

CLAREMORRIS 6 SEATS