Mayo FG candidate awaits HQ ratification

THE selection of a second Fine Gael candidate to contest next May's local elections in the three-seat Belmullet electoral area awaits ratification by party HQ.

The nomination of outgoing Councillor Gerry Coyle was confirmed at last night's selection convention.

Achill-based Breege Grealis, who stood in the West Mayo district five years, has also been put forward as a candidate.

However, the decision to adopt a two-candidate strategy awaits final approval from party headquarters, although that is expected to be a formality when the national executive meets next week.

Ms. Grealis made history in 2014 when she became the first woman from Achill Island to run for public office.