Donegal GAA have elected Gaoth Dobhair’s Alan Boyd as new Treasurer by using the unusual format of drawing lots.

Donegal have been without a Cisteoir since July when St Naul’s clubman Cieran Kelly stepped down, and the Executive had hoped to elect his successor last Monday.

There were two nominees left in the running at the County Committee meeting in the Villa Rose Hotel, and Alan Boyd (Gaoth Dobhair) and Brendan Kelly (St Mary’s Convoy) both allowed their names to go forward.

However, the vote ended in a tie as both candidates picked up 33 votes each, and confusion reigned over whether Chairman Mick McGrath had the casting vote or if the outcome was to be decided by drawing lots.

McGrath postponed the election and sought clarification from the newly-appointed Director General of the GAA, Tom Ryan.

There were two similar cases over the last year, and the GAA responded by saying it was to be decided by drawing lots, with the name pulled out first losing out on the role.

As it is less than 26 weeks to County Convention, the winning candidate will take on the role until December, and will also be granted the usual five-year term.

The drawing of lots took place on Thursday afternoon.

In a brief statement Donegal GAA confirmed that the position of Donegal GAA Treasurer was filled today by drawing of name, Alan Boyd is the County Treasurer for the remainder 2018.

“Congratulations and Best wishes to Alan in his new role,” the statement read.