Castlebar tally figures point to 3-3-1 result

THE result of the local elections in the Castlebar electoral area is pointing to a 3-3-1 result, according to tally figures.

With all boxes opened, it looks like the outcome will be three seats for Fine Gael, three for Fianna Fàil and one independent.

Outgoing independent Councillor Michael Kilcoyne is set to top the poll with 2,535 first preferences.

He is placed ahead of the outgoing cathaoirleach of Mayo County Council, Councillor Blackie Gavin (FF) in second place on 1,727, who has increased his return by over 500 votes.

In third spot is his FF colleague, Al McDonnell, on 1,498, an increase from his vote five years ago.

Ger Deere is poised to take the first FG seat. He is on 1,251 with outgoing Councillor Cyril Burke on 1,185.

The strongest contenders for the remaining two seats are outgoing Councillor Martin McLoughlin (FF) on 916 and Donna Sheridan (FG) on 775 with former FG councillor Eugene McCormack closely behind on 715.

With an estimated return of 606, outgoing Sinn Fèin Councillor Joe McHale is in a battle to retain his seat.

Due to the uncertainty in regard to how the votes of many independent candidates will transfer in the later stages of the count, the destination of the final two seats are too early to call.

Other tallied first preferences are Harry Barrett (Ind) 597, Gerry Loftus (Ind) 553, Joe Daly (PBP) 432, Michael Farrington (Renua) 321, Aidan Crowley (Ind) 166, Uddin Kamal (LB) 150, Des Walsh (Ind) 136 and Anthony Vesey (Ind) 55.