THE Donegal County Council elections have undoubtedly reshaped the political scene with significant losses for some established names and the rise of new contenders.
As the dust settles (except in Letterkenny LEA, where a recount has begun) the implications of these results will become clearer:
Milford LEA: A Shocking Elimination
One of the most significant upsets occurred in Milford, where Independent candidate John O’Donnell, previously a top contender, was eliminated. Independent candidate Declan Meehan emerged as the poll topper, marking a remarkable victory. Meehan will now join Fianna Fáil’s Liam Blaney and Independent Pauric McGarvey in representing Milford in Lifford.
Lifford-Stranorlar LEA: New Faces Emerge
The Lifford-Stranorlar LEA witnessed the emergence of two new faces. Independent candidate Martin Scanlon topped the poll, while Sinn Féin’s Dakota NicMheanman also secured a seat. They are joined by outgoing members Sinn Féin’s Gary Doherty, Independent Frank McBrearty, Fine Gael’s Martin Harley, and Fianna Fáil’s Patrick McGowan. However, Fianna Fáil Councillor Gerry Crawford lost his seat, adding to the election’s surprises.
Glenties LEA: Fianna Fáil’s Loss
In Glenties, Fianna Fáil lost the seat previously held by the late Noreen McGarvey. The outgoing councillors—Independent Michael Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig, Independent Michael McClafferty, Fianna Fáil’s Anthony Molloy, and Sinn Féin’s John Sheamais O’Fearraigh and Brian Carr—will now be joined by Dennis McGee from the 100% Redress Party, making him the third member of the party to be elected.
Buncrana LEA: New Additions
Buncrana saw the election of five members, including outgoing councillors Sinn Féin’s Jack Murray, Fianna Fáil’s Paul Canning, and Sinn Féin’s Terry Crossan. They will be joined by Joy Beard from the 100% Redress Party and Fianna Fáil’s Fionnan Bradley.
Carndonagh LEA: Fine Gael’s Setback
In Carndonagh, outgoing councillors Sinn Féin’s Albert Doherty, Fianna Fáil’s Martin McDermott, and Labour’s Martin Farren will continue their tenure. They will be joined by Ali Farren from the 100% Redress Party, who topped the poll. Fine Gael’s Johnny McGuinness lost his seat and has raised concerns about procedural inconsistencies during the count. McGuinness claims that a statute was used by the returning officer to eliminate two candidates simultaneously, which he argues could have altered the election’s outcome. He is considering legal action as his next step.
Donegal LEA: Mixed Outcomes
In the Donegal LEA, Fianna Fáil’s Michael Naughton and Sinn Féin’s Noel Jordan were elected, with Naughton topping the poll. Fine Gael’s Barry Sweeny lost out to his running mate Manus Boyle. Also elected were Independent Jimmy Brogan and outgoing members Independent Niamh Kennedy and Sinn Féin’s Michael McMahon.
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