Mayo Councillor Blackie Gavin reveals he's still committed to Fianna Fáil

Castlebar Councillor Blackie Gavin has revealed his heart remains in the Fianna Fáil party.

He confirmed he will be backing the county town-based Fianna Fáil candidate in the next general election.

"I will be working hard for the candidate who is selected," he outlined.

There has been speculation that Caoilinn Gaughan, a daughter of former Mayo TD Beverely Flynn, is interested in the candidacy.

But there has been no confirmation to date in relation to the matter. Ms. Gaughan is a member of the officer board of the Castlebar Cumann.

Councillor Gavin made the statement after attending the annual general meeting yesterday of the cumann, chaired by Councillor Damian Ryan and also attended by Councillor Al McDonnell.

"I am fully committed to Fianna Fáil but I won't be rejoining the party's grouping on Mayo County Council," he explained.

Councillor Gavin has controversially been a member of the independent technical group on the council since his re-election to the council in June 2024, walking away from his party colleagues on the authority.

The FF Cumann meeting saw the election of a new officer board, with Gerard Feehan and Vincent Kenny stepping down from the roles of chairperson and secretary, respectively, after many years of dedicated service.

The following officers were elected: Susan Hamrock (chairperson), Harry Gaughan (secretary), Ronan O’Malley (Treasurer), Caoilinn Gaughan (PRO) and John Hamrock (president).

As the party approaches its centenary year, members discussed the importance of celebrating the party’s past, while looking ahead to the future of Fianna Fáil in the county town.