Newly-elected Mayo TD outlines his commitment to hard work
Newly elected Mayo Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon has described his election 33rd Dáil is 'an honour and a privilege'.
Deputy Dillon was elected on the 7th count with 10,977 votes, without reaching the quota, transfers being critical to get him the fourth and final seat.
Expressing his gratitude to those who voted for him, from number one and beyond, he said his election as a first-time candidate was always going to be a battle.
“I knew from the canvass where my number one vote was strongest, but I also knew that voters would give me a second or third preference if they had their number one committed.
"There are four seats in this constituency, so people really looked at who they wanted to represent them across party lines. They wanted their vote to count - but they also wanted change.
“Mayo voters rightly expect hard work and a strong commitment to the county. I now have a mandate to represent the people of Mayo and that is my focus.
"Right now, we don’t know what the formation of the next government will look like, but the hard work starts today.
"My constituency office in Castlebar is open to constituents no matter of party allegiance."
Deputy Dillon thanked his campaign team, family and friends and also paid tribute to the hard-working count staff and Returning Officer for their continued counting votes at the TF Royal Hotel, Castlebar until after 2.00 a.m. this morning.
He also congratulated Fine Gael party colleague Michael Ring on topping the poll, Sinn Fein’s Rose-Conway Walsh and Dara Calleary on their election.
“We all want the best for this county and I’ve no doubt my colleagues will put their shoulder to the wheel for Mayo.”
He also expressed disappointment for Fine Gael party colleague Michelle Mulherin.
"It's a very difficult position to be in, knowing that one of us would lose out. Michelle worked hard as a former TD and Senator for Mayo."
He paid tribute to Lisa Chambers who lost her seat.
“Lisa has worked hard for Mayo and I want to acknowledge that,” he added.