Council in Mayo won't be nominating any Independent presidential candidate

MAYO County Council won't be nominating any Independent candidate for the presidential election.

One hopeful - Maria Steen - was formally proposed when the council met yesterday but failed to receive the support needed in her bid for the Áras.

A number of names of people requesting a nomination from Mayo County Council for the presidential election on October 24 were before the monthly local authority meeting.

Ms. Steen was formally proposed for nomination by Aontú's Councillor Deirdre Lawless, who said it is important that the electorate have a wider choice. Independent Ireland Councillor Chris Maxwell seconded the proposal.

However, the vote fell 5-19, with the Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael members voting against and two Independent members abstaining.

Nominees can get on the ballot sheet for the election with the backing of four local authorities.

Councillor Lawless said it was unfortunate FG members have been instructed to vote against all candidates other than the party's own nominee.

All candidates seeking a nomination were invited by the council to submit their request in writing, together with a supporting submission.

FF's Councillor Damien Ryan said he hadn't received any personal contact or communication from any candidate and he didn't think as a local authority they should play a part on this occasion.

However his party colleague Councillor Brendan Mulroy said he had received correspondence from one or two people personally, asking if they could come before the council.

We live in a democracy and should listen to what they have to say and have them make a presentation, he commented.

However, his opinion that possible candidates be allowed make a pitch didn't receive support.