Ming: 'wonderful' day for Independents
The fact that the Roscommon-Galway constituency is likely to be the only three-seater in the history of the State to return two independent TDs is “wonderful” according to MEP Luke 'Ming' Flanagan.
The former TD says he is delighted that four people who ran in the election had campaigned for him in the European election - Michael Fitzmaurice took his seat in the by-election to replace him, Claire Kerrane (SF) worked in his office for 18 months and independent candidates Tony Coleman (Ind) and Thomas Fallon both joined him on the campaign trail.
"The fact that we're returning two independents is wonderful. The system works if it is used correctly - if you just put the right people in there."
Sinn Féin Cllr Dermot Connolly has praised the first time performance of their party candidate, Claire Kerrane, who drew 3,000 votes according to the tally.
He pointed out that in his first election in 1997 he won just 306 first preferences. In his last Dáil election attempt for East Galway in 2011 he got 3,600.
"She's definitely one to watch. She's real ability. She's very dedicated and put in a fantastic effort, campaigning across a distance of 80 miles from the southern border to Arigna in the North," he enthused.
Denis Naughten is tipped to take the first seat when the first election count is announced around 6pm.
Officials are currently adjudicating on spoiled votes at Dr Hyde Park count centre.