WE’RE live from Treacy’s West County Hotel as we get closer to finding out which of the 59 candidates will be elected to fill the 28 seats on Clare County Council are.
22:45 – We’re just signing off our election count after recording a special edition of The Electoral Chair. Many thanks to you all for tuning in, for your feedback and to all 59 candidates for their assistance, Clare County Council staff, the public in attendance and our hard-working team. If you like what we do, please consider taking out a subscription to support what we do.
22:06 – Quick recap from the second day of counting. REPORT
21:50 – All four of Cllr McInerney, Cllr Lynch, Cllr Keating and Cllr Shannon in the Kilrush LEA voice their admiration for Cillian Murphy (FF) following his surprise defeat.
21:46 – Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) admits worried isn’t a word in his vocabulary.
21:45 – Michael Shannon (FF) tells The Clare Echo he is very humbled by his result.
21:33 – Huge backing of Doonbeg praised by Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) for her vote, similar for Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) from his native Kilrush.
21:01 – Kilrush LEA (five seats)
Cllr Dinny Gould (IND)
Cllr Rita McInerney (FF)
Cllr Ian Lynch (IND)
Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG)
Cllr Michael Shannon (FF)
21:00 – Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) and Michael Shannon have been elected on the tenth count in the Kilrush LEA. Shannon without reaching the quota.
20:58 – Kilrush LEA tenth count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Tenth, 150 transfers from Cllr McInerney
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1826 (+63)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1570 (+42)
Alan Troy (FF) 1368 (+45)
20:34 – Shannon MD’s seven councillors elected:
Cllr David Griffin (FF)
Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF)
Cllr John Crowe (FG)
Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF)
Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF)
Cllr Michael Begley (IND)
Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG)
20:32 – Ninth count results in the election of Cllr Rita McInerney and Cllr Ian Lynch.
20:30 Kilrush LEA ninth count
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Ninth count, 1160 transfers from Cllr Murphy
Rita McInerney (FF) 1967 (+269)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1950 (+317)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1763 (+245)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1528 (+71)
Alan Troy (FF) 1323 (+155)
20:23 – Eight years on from finishing in the Seanad, Tony Mulcahy is back in elected politics. Cllr O’Gorman who was co-opted following Cathal Crowe’s election to the Dáil forms a successful campaign and Cllr Begley survives one hell of a fright.
20:22 – Elected without reaching the quota are Cllr Pat O’Gorman, Cllr Michael Begley and Tony Mulcahy.
20:21 – Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) has been eliminated.
20:20 – Shannon MD eleventh count.
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Eleventh count, distribution of Rachel Hartigan’s 304 votes
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,407 (+55)
Michael Begley (IND) 1,370 (+135)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,324 (+40)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,242 (+7)
20:15 – Ex Mayor of Clare, Patrick Keane (FF) remarks of the defeated Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF), his fellow Kilkee man, “he was one of the best councillors in Ireland for the last five years”.
20:14 – Quota is 1,817 in the Kilrush LEA. The remaining five battling for four seats are, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) 1698, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) 1633, Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) 1518, Michael Shannon (FF) 1457 and Alan Troy (FF) 1168.
20:11 – Recap on the Kilrush LEA, only one of the five seats have been filled, first-time candidate Dinny Gould (IND) is over the line.
20:10 – Ninth count in the Kilrush LEA still to come, that is the transfers from Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF).
20:06 – Our eleventh count in the Shannon MD is likely to fill the remaining three seats.
20:01 – Here’s the standings of the four vying for the last three seats in the Shannon MD, Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,352, Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,284, Michael Begley (IND) 1,235 and PJ Ryan (IND) 1,235.
19:59 – Surplus of 304 votes from Rachel Hartigan (FF) likely to decide the three seats left in the Shannon MD.
19:58 – Four of the seven seats in the Shannon MD filled. Four battling for the last three.
19:47 – Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Cllr John Crowe (FG) elected on the tenth count in the Shannon MD.
19:46 – Shannon MD tenth count.
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Tenth count, distribution of Val Gillane’s vote.
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,760 (+347)
John Crowe (FG) 1,463 (+120)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,352 (+45)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,284 (+36)
Michael Begley (IND) 1235 (+230)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,235 (+15)
19:41 – Recount completed for the Kilrush LEA, it has not changed the outcome of the eighth count which is the elimination of Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF).
19:39 – Standby for the announcement.
19:30 – Recount continues in the Kilrush LEA.
19:28 – Plenty of movement expected within the last six standing in the Shannon MD. It is six vying for the remaining five seats.
19:27 – Rachel Hartigan (FF) is 43 votes shy of the quota and on course to take the third seat in the Shannon MD in the next count.
19:10 – In the wake of Mary Lou McDonald’s comments that she’s disappointed with Sinn Féin’s performance in the local elections, newly elected Shannon MD Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) says, “We’ve doubled the representation and raised the profile [of Sinn Féin] in Clare.”
18:57 – Members of Cllr Michael Begley’s (IND) camp expect to get 200 plus transfers from Val Gillane (FG).
18:52 – Val Gillane (FG) eliminated on the ninth count in the Shannon MD.
18:48 – Shannon MD ninth count.
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Ninth count, distribution of Donna McGettigan’s 131 votes
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,413 (+8)
John Crowe (FG) 1,343 (+6)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,307 (+6)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,248 (+51)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,220 (+23)
Michael Begley (IND) 1005 (+14)
Val Gillane (FG) 879 (0)
18:38 – We’re looking at a neck and neck finish in the Shannon MD. Both Cllr PJ Ryan and Tony Mulcahy currently tied on 1,197.
18:34 – Ninth count in the Shannon MD due very soon.
18:26 – Two of the seven seats in the Shannon MD have been filled, Cllr David Griffin (FF) and Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) in situ.
18:24 – Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) has been elected in the Shannon MD on the eighth count. It means Sinn Féin have doubled their representation on Clare County Council following the success of Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) in the Ennis MD.
18:23 – Shannon MD eighth count.
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Eighth count, distribution of Keith McNamara’s votes.
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,587 (+144)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,405 (+34)
John Crowe (FG) 1,337 (+19)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,301 (+35)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,197 (+118)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,197 (+130)
Michael Begley (IND) 991 (+61)
Val Gillane (FG) 879 (+6)
16:05 – Counting paused until 6pm.
15:48 – Keith McNamara (IND) eliminated on the seventh count in the Shannon MD, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) moves to the top of the poll, Rachel Hartigan (FF) jumps into second place.
15:48 – Shannon MD
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Seventh count, distribution of James Ryan’s 483 votes
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,443 (+222)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,371 (+103)
John Crowe (FG) 1,318 (+5)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,266 (+24)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,079 (+11)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,067 (+3)
Michael Begley (IND) 930 (+28)
Val Gillane (FG) 873 (+30)
Keith McNamara (IND) 671 (+15)
15:44 – “I’ve loved being a county councillor,” reflects Cllr Murphy. He references that his father has been unwell for the past six months and it has had an impact, “you’ve only one Dad and you have to look after him”.
15:43 – “I came here as a complete outsider with a very strong legacy of delivering for the communities of West Clare… If I don’t get elected, am I going to pull the plug on the emails and all the community groups I’ve worked with, the flippant answer is to say here’s Dinny Gould’s phone number but that is not in my nature,” says Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) on Clare FM.
15:39 – In other news, Tony Kelly is to start in Thurles.
15:36 – Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) has requested a full recount following his elimination on the eighth count in the Kilrush LEA. This request has been granted by Pat Dowling, the recount will commence at 6pm.
15:35 – Kilrush LEA eighth count
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Eighth count, 46 transfers from D Gould
Rita McInerney (FF) 1698 (+8)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1633 (+5)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1518 (+14)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1457 (+14)
Alan Troy (FF) 1168 (+2)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1162 (+3)
15:31 – There will be a pause for the Munster SHC final, we’re likely to get one more count for the Kilrush LEA and Shannon MD before then.
15:26 – Dinny’s transfers likely to split among Alan Troy (FF), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) and others.
15:22 – The newly elected Dinny Gould tells The Clare Echo, “I’ll tell you one thing, I can’t get over it. I thought I might fall in the last seat but I didn’t think I’d be elected in first. I’ll do my best for West Clare. All we want now is Clare to beat Limerick tonight and we’ll all have a sing-song.”
15:13 – Shannon MD sixth count
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Sixth count, 304 transfers from Haugh
John Crowe (FG) 1,313 (+20)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,268 (+13)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,242 (+25)
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,221 (+33)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,068 (+37)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,064 (+12)
Michael Begley (IND) 902 (+27)
Val Gillane (FG) 843 (+7)
Keith McNamara (IND) 656 (+46)
James Ryan (SF) 483 (+8)
15:11 – Alan Troy (FF) has leap frogged Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF). Transfers from Dinny Gould (IND) and the predicted ‘greyhound transfer’ may help Alan Troy big time in the next count.
15:09 – Dinny Gould (IND) is elected on the seventh count in the Kilrush LEA.
15:08 – Kilrush LEA seventh count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Seventh count, 966 transfers from T Doohan
Dinny Gould (IND) 1863 (+143)
Rita McInerney (FF) 1690 (+124)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1628 (+43)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1504 (+248)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1443 (+242)
Alan Troy (FF) 1166 (+51)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1159 (+22)
14:47 – Waiting game for the seventh count in the Kilrush LEA and the fifth count in the Shannon MD.
14:33 – Therese Doohan (FG) eliminated in the Kilrush LEA and John Haugh (AON) gone in the Shannon MD.
14:31 – Kilrush LEA sixth count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Sixth count, 707 transfers from Joseph Woulfe
Dinny Gould (IND) 1720 (+178)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1585 (+68)
Rita McInerney (FF) 1566 (+65)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1256 (+39)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1201 (+105)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1137 (+16)
Alan Troy (FF) 1115 (+32)
Therese Doohan (FG) 966 (+76)
14:28 – Shannon MD fifth count.
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Fifth count, 205 transfers from Cavanagh
John Crowe (FG) 1,293 (+22)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,255 (+35)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,217 (+9)
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,188 (+26)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,052 (+11)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,031 (+19)
Michael Begley (IND) 875 (+10)
Val Gillane (FG) 836 (+15)
Keith McNamara (IND) 610 (+12)
James Ryan (SF) 475 (+15)
John Haugh (AON) 304 (+7)
14:20 – Therese Doohan (FG) is back in the count centre, she was supporting the Clare ladies footballers who recorded a 2-7 0-4 win over Offaly in the All-Ireland intermediate championship.
14:17 – Staff now sorting the transfers from Joe Woulfe (II). This is expected to be a geography transfer with Michael Shannon (FF) and Therese Doohan (FG) likely to see the biggest gains.
14:15 – Dinny Gould (IND) tells The Clare Echo he is very optimistic of taking a seat on the County Council. The fifth count has him in the top spot.
14:10 – Fianna Fáil sources telling The Clare Echo that a recount is very likely in the Kilrush LEA later this evening.
13:50 – Counting currently paused as staff get a small respite.
13:40 – Shannon MD fourth count.
John Crowe (FG) – 1271
Rachel Hartigan (FF) – 1220
Pat O’Gorman (FF) – 1208
Donna McGettigan (SF) – 1162
Tony Mulcahy (FG) – 1041
P.J. Ryan (IND) – 1012
Michael Begley (IND) – 865
Val Gillen (FG) – 821
Keith McNamara (IND) – 598
James Ryan (SF) – 460
John Haugh (AON) – 297
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) – 205
13:32 – In a separate conversation, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) points out that the order of how candidates get elected is not as significant, “once your bum is on the seat that’s all that matters”.
13:30 – “It’s squeaky bum time,” says Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF), he’s battling for one of the five seats in the Kilrush LEA. This quote was also used by Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) prior to his final election in the Shannon MD in 2019.
13:28 – Kilrush LEA counting takes a thirty minute recess. Shannon MD ongoing.
13:27 – Joseph Woulfe who made the final count in #LE19 has been eliminated on the fifth count for #LE24 in the Kilrush LEA. Dinny Gould (IND) and Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) have overtaken Cllr Rita McInerney (FF).
13:26 – Kilrush LEA FIFTH count
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Fifth count, 55 transfers from Dawn Bennett
Dinny Gould (IND) 1542 (+102)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1517 (+85)
Rita McInerney (FF) 1501 (+47)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1217 (+30)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1121 (+32)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1096 (+17)
Alan Troy (FF) 1083 (+12)
Therese Doohan (FG) 890 (+22)
Joseph Woulfe (II) 707 (+56)
13:23 – Very few people willing to predict how things will fare in the Kilrush LEA.
13:14 – On the third count in the Shannon MD, Pat Barry (IND) is eliminated in the Shannon MD. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) getting the most of David Griffin’s (FF) transfers.
13:12 – Shannon MD third count
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Distribution of David Griffin’s 78 votes
John Crowe (FG) 1,268 (+10)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,215 (+12)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,205 (+21)
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,146 (+5)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,037 (+9)
PJ Ryan (IND) 1,000 (+9)
Michael Begley (IND) 834 (+1)
Val Gillane (FG) 819 (+1)
Keith McNamara (IND) 562 (+4)
James Ryan (SF) 456 (+1)
John Haugh (AON) 281 (+3)
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) 202 (+1)
Pat Barry (IND) 158 (+1)
13:10 – Both Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) elected yesterday are back in the count centre.
13:02 – Kilrush LEA fourth count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Fourth count, 492 transfers from Kevin Hassett
Rita McInerney (FF) 1454 (+50)
Dinny Gould (IND) 1440 (+75)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1432 (+64)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1187 (+75)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1089 (+46)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1079 (+15)
Alan Troy (FF) 1071 (+31)
Therese Doohan (FG) 858 (+12)
Joseph Woulfe (II) 651 (+84)
Dawn Bennett (SF) 544 (+16)
12:58 – Ex Mayor of Clare, Flan Garvey (FF) says expect a very tight finish in the Shannon MD and the Kilrush LEA. He is sporting the Clare colours.
12:56 – “It is going to go down to the wire,” predicts Alan Troy (FF) in the Kilrush LEA.
12:54 – Griffin is hopeful his transfers (72) will benefit his Fianna Fáil colleagues, Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF).
12:52 – David Griffin (FF) says some people in Newmarket-on-Fergus wouldn’t have known who was David Griffin if they were asked, he said securing a village vote was key plus the backing from outgoing Cllr Pat McMahon (FF).
12:40 – Things motoring nicely here with election counts. Not swift enough for a trip to Tipp potentially.
Kevin Hassett (II) helped to provide us with one of the most memorable moments from #LE24.
He has been eliminated on the third count in the Kilrush LEA. https://t.co/Di9CCxoZrd
— Páraic McMahon (@thepmanofficial) June 9, 2024
12:36 – Kevin Hassett (II) eliminated on the third count in Kilrush LEA.
12:35 – Kilrush LEA third count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Third count, distribution of Susan Griffin’s 336 votes
Rita McInerney (FF) 1404 (+40)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1368 (+32)
Dinny Gould (IND) 1365 (+15)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1112 (+56)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1064 (+4)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1043 (+27)
Alan Troy (FF) 1040 (+27)
Therese Doohan (FG) 846 (+38)
Joseph Woulfe (II) 567 (+17)
Dawn Bennett (SF) 528 (+30)
Kevin Hassett (II) 492 (+13)
12:24 – David Griffin’s transfers to now be distributed for the third count in Shannon MD.
12:23 – Shannon MD
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
Second Count: distribution of Conor O’Brien’s 32 votes
John Crowe (FG) 1,258 (+2)
Rachel Hartigan (FF) 1,203 (0)
Pat O’Gorman (FF) 1,184 (+1)
Donna McGettigan (SF) 1,141 (0)
Tony Mulcahy (FG) 1,028 (+1)
PJ Ryan (IND) 991 (+5)
Michael Begley (IND) 833 (+2)
Val Gillane (FG) 818 (0)
Keith McNamara (IND) 558 (+10)
James Ryan (SF) 455 (0)
John Haugh (AON) 278 (+3)
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) 201 (0)
Pat Barry (IND) 157 (+6)
12:19 – David Griffin (FF) a big winner in the Shannon MD.
12:14 – Susan Griffin (GP) eliminated on the second count in the Kilrush LEA.
12:12 – Kilrush LEA second count.
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Transfers from John Hill.
Rita McInerney (FF) 1364 (+24)
Dinny Gould (IND) 1350 (+40)
Ian Lynch (IND) 1336 (+18)
Michael Shannon (FF) 1060 (+9)
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1056 (+17)
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1016 (+5)
Alan Troy (FF) 1013 (+31)
Therese Doohan (FG) 808 (+12)
Joseph Woulfe (II) 550 (+53)
Dawn Bennett (SF) 498 (+8)
Kevin Hassett (II) 479 (+31)
Susan Griffin (GP) 336 (+4)
12:09 – David Griffin (FF) tops the poll and is elected in the Shannon MD. Conor O’Brien is eliminated.
12:08 – Shannon MD first count
Seats: Seven
Quota: 1,456
Total Poll: 11,779
Invalid Poll: 138
Valid Poll: 11,641
David Griffin (FF) – 1,534
John Crowe (FG) – 1,256
Rachel Hartigan (FF) – 1,203
Pat O’Gorman (FF) – 1,183
Donna McGettigan (SF) – 1,141
PJ Ryan (IND) – 986
Tony Mulcahy (FG) – 1,027
Michael Begley (IND) – 831
Val Gillane (FG) – 818
Keith McNamara (IND) – 548
James Ryan (SF) – 455
John Haugh (AON) – 275
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) – 201
Pat Barry (IND) – 151
Conor O’Brien (IND) – 32
12:04 – Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) has seen a 292 increase in his first preference vote.
12:03 – First count due imminently for Shannon MD.
11:52 – John Hill (IFP) was eliminated on the first count in Kilrush LEA.
11:48 – Expected that the first count in Shannon MD will be delivered at 12pm.
11:45 – Very strong canvass has been praised by Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) and her team for a poll-topping performance in the Kilrush LEA. Doonbeg previously labelled as a divided area has come out in force for Rita.
11:44 – Michael Shannon (FF) expects it could be a sixth count before the full make-up of the five elected in Kilrush LEA is known.
11:41 – Here is Kilrush LEA in the order they appear.
Kilrush LEA
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 10,092
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Rita McInerney (FF) 1340
Ian Lynch (IND) 1318
Dinny Gould (IND) 1310
Michael Shannon (FF) 1051
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1039
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1011
Alan Troy (FF) 982
Therese Doohan (FG) 796
Joseph Woulfe (II) 497
Dawn Bennett (SF) 490
Kevin Hassett (II) 448
Susan Griffin (GP) 332
John Hill (IFP) 287
11:37 – Kilrush LEA first count
Seats: Five
Quota: 1,817
Total Poll: 1,992
Invalid Poll: 91
Valid Poll: 10,901
Dawn Bennett (SF) 490
Therese Doohan (FG) 796
Dinny Gould (IND) 1310
Susan Griffin (GP) 332
Kevin Hassett (II) 448
John Hill (IFP) 287
Gabriel Keating (FG) 1039
Ian Lynch (IND) 1318
Rita McInerney (FF) 1340
Cillian Murphy (FF) 1011
Michael Shannon (FF) 1051
Alan Troy (FF) 982
Joseph Woulfe (II) 497
11:33 – First count on the way for Kilrush LEA.
11:31 – To save you trawling through previous tallies, we’ll post details on what is known so far in Kilrush LEA and the Shannon MD very shortly.
11:23 – Also in Kilrush LEA, Michael Shannon (FF) to transfer very well if he can stay ahead of Theresa Doohan (FG). Having made the final count in 2019, Joseph Woulfe (II) is expected to have an earlier elimination this time round.
11:22 – Within the Kilrush LEA, we’re predicting a potential ‘greyhound transfer’ of votes which will see Dinny Gould (IND) aid the cause of Alan Troy (FF).
11:10 – Doubtful papers for the Shannon MD to be examined now.
11:08 – Safe travelling to all heading for Semple Stadium!
11:03 – Joe Buckley is back with us, he’s managed to get some great photographs to document the action so far.
11:02 – Our man, Páraic McMahon presents Limerick supporter Dan Danaher and Claire Gallagher who is wearing the Limerick colours with some Clare bunting ahead of the Munster SHC final.
10:58 – Following this we will proceed to the doubtful papers for the Shannon MD.
10:54 – Doubtful papers for Kilrush LEA now to be discussed with candidates and election agents.
10:30 – “Despite all the gloom about Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, both parties have performed very well across the country and in Clare at Sinn Féin’s expense,” says former Junior Minister, Pat Breen (FG).
10:00 – Many thanks to Ciaran & Rebekah of 1848 Coffee Box, located at the Halfway House car park for the early morning latte.
Thanks to our good friends Ciaran & Rebekah at 1848 Coffeebox located at the back of the Halfway in Ennis for the
early morning coffee. https://t.co/NLrWo9IPkz pic.twitter.com/A20LMmXjRi— The Clare Echo (@ClareEcho) June 9, 2024
09:48 – Of the Oireachtas members, Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) is the first to arrive.
09:47 – First count not likely till after 10:30 in either Kilrush LEA or Shannon MD.
09:30 – Some of the candidates checking on votes so far include David Griffin (FF), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Cllr Michael Begley (IND), Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) and Keith McNamara (IND).
09:28 – Early query has landed from Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) on whether our live blogger had eggs this morning. We can confirm he did and of course they were Melody’s Eggs.
09:19 – A different Clare Echo top is being sported by our man today, we don’t think it will be as popular as the Ború Sports designed top from day one.
09:11 – Best of luck to the Clare senior hurlers as they go in search of winning the Munster SHC title for the first time since 1998.
09:08 – Some of the count staff wearing the Clare jerseys. A big day as Clare’s senior hurlers take on Limerick in the Munster SHC final. The count is expected to take a break at 4pm if still ongoing in Clare.
09:05 – Kevin Hassett (II) is the first of the Kilrush LEA candidates to arrive at the count centre.
08:58 – Welcome back to day two of the election count.
02:09 – That’s all from day one of the election count in Clare, we’re signing off for a few hours and will be back with you in the morning as the focus switches to the Kilrush LEA and Shannon MD.
02:08 – Report from day one of the election count in Clare, available HERE.
01:36 – Fianna Fáil manage to elect four councillors in the Ennis Municipal District. First-time candidate Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) prevails along with Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF).
01:35 – Sinn Féin double their representation on Clare County Council with the election of Tommy Guilfoyle (SF).
01:16 – On the eighth count in the Ennis MD, Cllr Paul Murphy, Antoinette Baker Bashua, Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) have been elected.
01:14 – Ennis MD eighth count
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Eighth count, 823 distribution from H Tonge
Paul Murphy (FG) 1537 (+70)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1502 (+78)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1470 (+132)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1404 (+54)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1271 (+64)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 1113 (+240)
01:00 – “I was in it for the right reasons,” Cllr Liam Grant (GP) on his stint in politics.
00:50 – In the Killaloe MD, Cllr O’Brien and Cllr Burke have been elected without reaching the quota.
00:49 – Killaloe MD Sixth Count
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Levie’s transfers.
Tony O’Brien (FF) 1577 (+127)
Pat Burke (FG) 1695 (+251)
Matt Moroney (II) 1335 (+230)
00:47 – Ennistymon LEA sixth count
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
Distribution of O’Loughlin’s 401 votes
Joe Killeen (FF) 1779 (+72)
Liam Grant (GP) 1436 (+90)
00:42 – Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) is six votes shy of the quota in Ennis. Hilary Tonge (SD) has been eliminated.
00:39 – Ennis MD
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Seventh count, distribution of Howard’s 12 votes
Paul Murphy (FG) 1467 (+4)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1424 (+2)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1350 (+4)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1338 (0)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1207 (+1)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 873 (0)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 823 (+1)
00:37 – “If it is it is that’s the way the cookie crumbles,” Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) on his election prospects.
00:30 – We’re now distributing the 12 surplus vote of Cllr Mary Howard (FG) which should be enough to elect Cllr Paul Murphy (FG).
00:23 – Ennis MD
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Sixth count, distribution of Keenan’s 527 votes
Paul Murphy (FG) 1463 (+34)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1422 (+39)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1346 (+26)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1338 (+49)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1206 (+45)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 873 (+40)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 822 (+87)
00:19 – Cllr Shane Talty (FF) elected on the fifth count in the Ennistymon LEA.
The wait is over for Shane Talty (FF) https://t.co/NLrWo9Ihv1 pic.twitter.com/Vkdnon1hST
— The Clare Echo (@ClareEcho) June 8, 2024
00:19 – Ennistymon LEA fifth count.
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
Fifth count: O’Sullivan’s distribution.
Shane Talty (FF) 1846 (+39)
Joe Killeen (FF) 1707 (+34)
Liam Grant (GP) 1346 (+74)
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) 401 (+68)
00:05 – Fiona eliminated on the fifth count in the Killaloe MD.
00:04 – Killaloe MD Fifth Count
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Distribution of Cleary’s 441 votes
Tony O’Brien (FF) 1450 (+33)
Pat Burke (FG) 1444 (+30)
Matt Moroney (II) 1105 (+89)
Fiona Levie (SD) 1050 (+174)
00:00 – Cathal Crowe (FF) expects to be dusting off the shoes for an autumn General Election.
23:57 – Possible that we’ll be going till 1am.
23:51 – Ruairí Keenan (IND) eliminated on the fifth count.
23:50 – Ennis MD fifth count.
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Fifth count 471 votes from Seamus Ryan
Paul Murphy (FG) 1429 (+40)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1383 (+61)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1320 (+30)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1289 (+34)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1161 (+34)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 833 (+70)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 735 (+96)
Ruairí Keenan (IND) 527 (+40)
23:42 – Ennistymon LEA fourth count.
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
Fourth count: Loughrey’s 130 votes and Vaughan’s 110 votes
Shane Talty (FF) 1807 (+18)
Joe Killeen (FF) 1673 (+14)
Liam Grant (GP) 1272 (+49)
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) 333 (+80)
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) 307 (+21)
23:37 – Big win for Fiona Levie with 207 transfers from Audrey Flynn’s vote.
23:34 – Martina Cleary (SF) eliminated on the fourth count in the Killaloe MD.
23:33 – Killaloe MD Fourth Count.
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Distribution of Flynn’s 370 votes
Tony O’Brien (FF) 1417 (+24)
Pat Burke (FG) 1414 (+39)
Matt Moroney (II) 1016 (+33)
Fiona Levie (SD) 876 (+207)
Martina Cleary (SF) 441 (+36)
23:21 – Seamus Ryan is eliminated on the fourth count in the Ennis MD.
23:21 – Ennis MD Fourth count.
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
410 votes from A Major
Paul Murphy (FG) 1389 (+20)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1322 (+86)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1290 (+23)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1255 (+35)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1127 (+16)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 763 (+45)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 639 (+32)
Ruairí Keenan (IND) 487 (+54)
Seamus Ryan (LAB) 471 (+36)
23:15 – For the next five year term, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) is a strong contender to be a Mayor of Clare for a twelve month spell prior to the 2029 elections.
23:11 – A birthday to remember for Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF). He’s elected on the third count in the Killaloe MD.
22:59 – Three local electoral areas ongoing to be completed tonight.
22:54 – Amanda Major (IND) is eliminated on the third count in Ennis.
22:53 – Ennis MD third count.
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Paul Murphy (FG) 1369 (+6)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1267 (+1)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1220 (+5)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1236 (+3)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1111 (+5)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) 718 (+2)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 607 (+1)
Seamus Ryan (LAB) 435 (+1)
Ruairí Keenan (IND) 433 (+27)
Amanda Major (IND) 410 (+7)
22:50 – Third count eliminations. Denis Vaughan (LAB) and Michael Loughrey (IP) in the Ennistymon LEA.
22:49 – Audrey Flynn (GP) is eliminated on the third count in the Killaloe MD.
22:48 – Killaloe MD THIRD COUNT
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Transfers from 173 Cllr Hayes’ vote
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) 1739 (+49)
Tony O’Brien (FF) 1393 (+28)
Pat Burke (FG) 1375 (+53)
Matt Moroney (II) 983 (+25)
Fiona Levie (SD) 669 (+11)
Martina Cleary (SF) 405 (+3)
Audrey Flynn (GP) 370 (+4)
22:46 – Ennistymon LEA third count.
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
Transfer of 85 votes from Cllr Garrihy
Shane Talty (FF) 1789 (+31)
Joe Killeen (FF) 1659 (+22)
Liam Grant (GP) 1223 (+20)
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) 286 (+2)
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) 253 (+2)
Michael Loughrey (IP) 130 (+1)
Denis Vaughan (LAB) 100 (+2)
22:41 – As well as the election of Cllr Howard on the second count in the Ennis MD, Jacek Kazmierz Kwazy (IND) was also eliminated.
22:33 – “I was thinking he was getting bored, if he was tweeting about eggs,” Cllr Ian Lynch (IND). More importantly, he was of the view of always targeting the third seat in the Kilrush LEA. He’s on course to do that.
22:23 – Martin is heading home now to prepare for a trip to Semple Stadium to watch Clare’s hurlers tomorrow.
22:20 – ‘Politics at a local level is very much about the person, Sinn Féin have proven than and Fianna Fáil have also proven that, it is no good putting up a sign of a Dublin person down in Clare,’ says strategist Martin Lynch (FG) while pointing out that signs of Mary Lou McDonald in Clare are not going to win voters at a local level.
22:17 – Possible that activity could conclude at midnight. Also probable that all three electoral areas will be boxed off before tomorrow’s focus of Kilrush LEA and Shannon MD.
22:12 – Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) has yet to pass on the news to his son Micheál in the States about his election. We’re sure MG is following the live blog to know the story.
22:06 – Cllr Howard has said this was the toughest election campaign she’s fought.
22:05 – Ennis MD Second Count.
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Transfers of Pat Daly’s 359 votes
Mary Howard (FG) –1485 (+51)
Paul Murphy (FG) – 1363 (+31)
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) 1266 (+74)
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) 1215 (+24)
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) 1233 (+65)
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) 1106 (+68)
Bridget Ginnity (GP) –716 (+11)
Hilary Tonge (SD) 606 (+8)
Seamus Ryan (LAB) 434 (+11)
Ruairí Keenan (IND) 406 (+7)
Amanda Major (IND) 403 (+7)
Jacek Kazmierz Kwazy (IND) 70 (+2)
21:58 – “I’d to leave there for a few hours because we’d to give the Blues a hammering in the minor,” Darragh O’Callaghan, son of Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) points out to The Clare Echo’s Newmarket-on-Fergus scribe.
21:56 – Surrounded by his wife Tiki, his three children and five grandchildren, Cllr Pat Daly sang a rendition of ‘Will Ya Go Lassie Go’ after being elected first with 1,832 votes. He told The Clare Echo Echo that his grandchildren “are proud as daisies”. “It’s my sixth time going and it’s the highest vote I ever got. I’d like to thank all the people of Ennis Municipal District and all my canvassers, they were fantastic”.
21:51 – Plenty of overseas followers for the live blog, Paul Bugler and Frank Melody among some of those following closely.
21:47 – Fun fact, the person behind this blog had two Melody Eggs for breakfast this morning. How do you like your eggs?
21:46 – “The story of today is two names, David Griffin and Bill Slattery. David Griffin had a very well organised campaign, Newmarket-on-Fergus has got its county councillor. Bill got a huge personal vote and it didn’t come overnight, he has been working hard for five years on this campaign, he is a politician of substance and service,” Joe Melody (FG) gives his tuppensworth to The Clare Echo.
21:44 – Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) elected on the second count in the Ennistymon LEA.
21:43 – Ennistymon LEA (second count)
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
428 transfers from Bill
Joe Garrihy (FG) – 1794 +107 = 1901
Shane Talty (FF) – 1569 + 189 = 1758
Joe Killeen (FF) – 1594 + 43 = 1637
Liam Grant (GP) – 1150 + 53 = 1203
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) – 273 + 11 = 284
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) – 234 + 17 = 251
Michael Loughrey (IP) – 127 +2 = 129
Denis Vaughan (LAB) – 92 + 6 = 98
21:40 – Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) elected on the second count in the Killaloe MD.
21:37 – Killaloe MD (Second Count)
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Transfers from Cllr Joe Cooney
Pat Hayes (FF) 1908 (+309)
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) 1690 (+215)
Tony O’Brien (FF) 1365 (+102)
Pat Burke (FG) 1322 (+273)
Matt Moroney (II) 958 (+98)
Fiona Levie (SD) 658 (+45)
Martina Cleary (SF) 402 (+2)
Audrey Flynn (GP) 366 (+19)
21:31 – Some sustenance provided in the guise of a top-notch chicken wrap from The Food Emporium.
21:24 – “I’m shocked,” admits Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) of her very strong showing in the Kilrush LEA.
21:08 – Not for the first time in his political career, Cllr Joe Cooney is first across the line in East Clare.
Another poll-topping performance from Cllr Joe Cooney (FG).
All the action as it happens on our live blog. #LE24 pic.twitter.com/SLg1hMMUvS
— The Clare Echo (@ClareEcho) June 8, 2024
21:05 – Second counts to follow shortly in three electoral areas.
20:55 – Cllr Pat Daly (FF) tops the poll in the Ennis MD.
Up he goes, Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Pat Daly (FF) is elected on the first count. https://t.co/NLrWo9Ihv1#LE24 pic.twitter.com/vHuONVUBAi
— The Clare Echo (@ClareEcho) June 8, 2024
20:51 – Footage of Bill Slattery (FG) receiving the news of his election.
Five years on from losing his seat, Bill Slattery is the big winner in North Clare. He’s elected on the first count in Ennistymon LEA. #LE24 pic.twitter.com/q0XCFnd4Io
— The Clare Echo (@ClareEcho) June 8, 2024
20:49 – Cllr Pat Daly (FF) elected on the first count in the Ennis MD.
20:48 – Ennis MD
Quota: 1473
Total Poll: 11959
Valid Poll: 11776
Seats: 7
Pat Daly (FF) – 1832
Mary Howard (FG) – 1434
Paul Murphy (FG) – 1332
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – 1192
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – 1191
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – 1168
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – 1038
Bridget Ginnity (GP) – 705
Hilary Tonge (SD) – 598
Seamus Ryan (LAB) – 423
Ruairí Keenan (IND) – 399
Amanda Major (IND) – 396
Jacek Kazmierz Kwazy (IND) – 68
20:28 – “We’re there to work for the people and that’s what we will continue to do,” says Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) on his re-election to the County Council. Another poll-topping performance from the Mayor of Clare.
20:21 – Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) is elected on the first count in the Killaloe MD.
20:20 – Killaloe MD FIRST COUNT
Seats: 5
Total Poll: 10,481
Invalid: 77
Valid Poll: 10,404
Quota: 1,735
Joe Cooney (FG) – 2819
Pat Hayes (FF) – 1599
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 1475
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 1263
Pat Burke (FG) – 1049
Matt Moroney (II) – 860
Fiona Levie (SD) – 613
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 347
Martina Cleary (SF) – 379
20:17 – Bill Slattery is elected on the first count in Ennistymon LEA.
20:16 – Ennistymon LEA first count:
Ennistymon LEA
Seats: 4
Valid Poll: 9077
Invalid: 82
Quota: 1816
Bill Slattery (FG) – 2244
Joe Garrihy (FG) – 1794
Joe Killeen (FF) – 1594
Shane Talty (FF) – 1569
Liam Grant (GP) – 1150
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) – 273
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) – 234
Michael Loughrey (IP) – 127
Denis Vaughan (LAB) – 92
20:13 – Thankfully this person is making a swift recovery. Cathal Crowe (FF) was first on the scene to alert emergency personnel.
20:08 – An individual at the count centre is getting medical treatment. Medical personnel have been called to assist.
20:00 – Former Clare TD and ex Mayor of Clare, James Breen (IND) has paid a fleeting visit to the count centre. It wouldn’t be an election without the Kilnamona man.
19:57 – We’re two minutes away from the first count in Ennistymon LEA, or so we’re told..
19:54 – Shout out to Blossoms on the Go for sponsoring our election coverage.
19:49 – Increasing amount of persons gathering in The West County. Can only mean a first count is due. Stay tuned.
19:46 – Clare FM breakfast show presenter, Colum McGrath disagrees with the view of his colleague Clare FM, Darragh Dolan on the subject of the best ‘polo tops’ in local media.
19:42 – Plenty of political views being aired in this picture, former councillors Tony Killeen (FF), Bernard Hanrahan (FF), Patricia McCarthy (IND) with sitting duo Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) and Cllr Liam Grant (GP).
19:42 – Quick recap as per the tallies, Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Bill Slattery (FG), Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) and David Griffin (FF) are the poll-toppers in Ennis MD, Ennistymon LEA, Killaloe MD, Kilrush LEA and Shannon MD.
19:41 – Agents for Ennis MD asked to come forward to discuss spoilt votes. Following this we will have first counts for Ennistymon LEA and Killaloe MD.
19:39 – Treacy’s West County Hotel is filling up with a first count due soon.
19:33 – “Elections should be held on a Sunday,” Dermot Hayes. The activist believes this would increase the turnout of voters.
19:31 – “It’s not the Magpies looking for a six in a row,” quips Sean Chambers (FG) to Marian Dormer but the Clarecastle woman quickly replies “well it’s definitely not Fine Gael”.
19:23 – Living proof that The Clare Echo has “the best tops of all local media” as reported earlier by – and also modelled by @thepmanofficial
19:14 – We’re not due a first count for a further thirty minutes. The initial plan was for 3pm!
19:12 – Stuart Holly is back with us. The Clare Echo’s Editor managed to get home, cut the lawn and help put the children to bed.
19:08 – Anticipation building for the first counts in Clare. Ennis MD, Ennistymon LEA and Killaloe MD the focus first.
18:51 – Election agents and candidates going through spoiled votes now with the returning officer.
18:45 – “I’m in with a shout,” first-time candidate Dinny Gould (IND) tells The Clare Echo. He’s looking good to win one of the five seats in the Kilrush LEA.
18:40 – “What has broken through today is good, traditional politics,” says Geraldine Gregan (FG) Fine Gael’s Director of Elections.
18:25 – Ireland South Tally from Clare:
Michael McNamara (IND) – 17,762
Sean Kelly (FG) – 4123
Eddie Punch (II) – 3386
Billy Kelleher (FF) – 2284
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú (FF) – 2005
Grace O’Sullivan (GP) – 1708
Mick Wallace (IND) – 1661
Kathleen Funchion (SF) – 1160
Paul Gavan (SF) – 1061
Michael Leahy (IFP) – 1040
Niamh Hourigan (LAB) – 839
Christopher Doyle (IND) – 533
Derek Blighe (IFP) – 581
John Mullins (FG) – 434
Lorna Bogue (NP) – 374
Patrick Murphy (AON) – 262
Cian Prendeville (PBP/SOL) – 257
Una McGurk (IND) – 227
Susan Doyle (SD) – 171
Mary Fitzgibbon (IND) – 149
Graham de Barra (IND) – 141
Ross Lahive (IP) – 103
Ciaran O’Riordan (IND) – 69
18:07 – Two of the poll-toppers according to the tallies, Bill Slattery (FG) and Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) have arrived. Slattery lost his seat in 2019, five years on it’s a very different outcome on the cards.
18:05 – “It is fair to say The Clare Echo have the best tops of all local media,” remarks Clare FM reporter Darragh Dolan.
18:00 – A nice smoothie bowl from The Food Emporium has refreshed the guy behind our live blog! PMcMahon always seems to have a pep in his step after a visit there!
17:56 – No set trends to the transfers of Cllr Pat Daly (FF) observes one political follower in the count centre.
17:42 – Bill Slattery lost his seat in 2019 and is now set to return to the Council by topping the poll in Ennistymon LEA.
17:40 – Ennistymon LEA 27/28 boxes
Bill Slattery (FG) 2255
Joe Garrihy (FG) 1724
Shane Talty (FF) 1567
Joe Killeen (FF) 1540
Liam Grant (GP) 1212
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) 271
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) 211
Michael Loughrey (IP) 136
Denis Vaughan (LAB) 92
17:12 – “I’m very disappointed, it is a very traditional county,” Pat Barry (IND) says when reflecting on his performance in the Shannon MD.
17:07 – Round of applause after Dowling pays tribute to the late Michael McNamara and Eugene Ryan.
17:06 – Chief Exec of the Council, Pat Dowling now giving an address at the count centre. Confirms we will shortly proceed with counting for each electoral area. Commencing with Ennis, Ennistymon and Killaloe. Following completion of one of these we will then proceed for Kilrush LEA and finally Shannon MD. “We will proceed as efficiently as possible”. Asks for his colleagues to be treated with respect and acknowledges it can be an emotional occasion.
16:56 – Pundits pointing out that there could be a battle between the sitting duo of Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) and Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) if Michael Shannon (FF) pushes ahead of them.
16:53 –First count in Clare not expected for another two hours. Ennis Municipal District followed by Ennistymon local electoral area.
16:49 – Plenty of laughter among the Miltown Malbay natives, Christy Curtin and Gerry Flynn. Both of whom served as Independent councillors in Clare.
16:18 – David Griffin looking dialled in with party colleague Senator Timmy Dooley
15:59 – Thirteen boxes open in Ennistymon LEA.
Joe Killeen (FF) 869
Bill Slattery (FG) 584
Shane Talty (FF) 504
Joe Garrihy (FG) 494
Liam Grant (GP) 365
Conor O’Sullivan (SF) 99
Pam O’Loughlin (IND) 68
Michael Loughrey (IP) 35
Denis Vaughan (LAB) 29
15:55 – Three boxes left to go in Killaloe MD.
Joe Cooney (FG) – 2257
Pat Hayes (FF) – 1356
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 1227
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 1173
Pat Burke (FG) – 943
Matt Moroney (II) – 686
Fiona Levie (SD) – 544
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 323
Martina Cleary (SF) – 319
15:32 – Amanda Major (IND, 376 first pre) tells The Clare Echo “I’m done with politics” after coming in third last after the first count, the same position she found herself in 2019.
15:30 – David Griffin (FF) is beaming. The Newmarket-on-Fergus man says of himself and Rachel Hartigan, Fianna Fáil’s two youngsters polling well in the Shannon MD, “It’s like busses. You wait for ages and then two come along at once.”
15:07 – Some of the sub-plots in the Kilrush LEA, Michael Shannon (FF) leading out of the three candidates in the parish of Kilmurry Ibrickane. He has 683 compared with Therese Doohan (FG) on 545 and Joe Woulfe (II) on 179 as per the initial tallies.
15:04 – “Some performance from the dyson” among the comments about Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) once again looking set to top the poll in the Killaloe MD.
14:59 – It seems we’re behind schedule for a first count. Still a number of boxes to be sorted at the count centre.
14:55 – From a Kilmihil box, Dinny Gould (IND) taking the large share of votes followed by Cllr Rita McInerney (FF).
14:45 – Legendary mechanic Francie Daly believes his man Alan Troy (FF) “will hang in there ’til the very end” in the very interested Kilrush MD. With 5 seats up for grabs, Troy sits in 7th just 80 votes behind Gabriel Keating’s (FG) 749.
14:42 – Two of Clare’s TDs, Cathal Crowe (FF) and Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) have been in attendance today as have Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) and Senator Timmy Dooley (FF).
14:40 – Senior figures in Fianna Fáil very pleased so far with their performances, based on the tallies.
14:30 – Kilrush LEA: 35/42 with 83 of the boxes tallied.
Rita McInerney (FF – 1218
Ian Lynch (IND) – 1085
Dinny Gould (IND) – 947
Cillian Murphy (FF) – 910
Gabriel Keating (FG) – 749
Michael Shannon (FF) – 683
Alan Troy (FF) – 669
Therese Doohan (FG) – 545
Dawn Bennett (SF) – 368
Kevin Hassett (II) – 346
John Hill (IFP) – 317
Susan Griffin (GP) – 299
Joseph Woulfe (II) -179
14:15 – Kilrush LEA Tally
Dawn Bennett (SF) – 285
Therese Doohan (FG) – 370
Dinny Gould (IND) – 747
Susan Griffin (GP) – 216
Kevin Hassett (II) – 274
John Hill (IFP) – 153
Gabriel Keating (FG) – 585
Ian Lynch (IND) – 756
Rita McInerney (FF – 1008
Cillian Murphy (FF) – 777
Michael Shannon (FF) – 414
Alan Troy (FF) – 439
Joseph Woulfe (II) -179
Estimated quota is 1433
13:59 – Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) tells The Clare Echo he believes four FF councillors in the Ennis MD is a “done deal”. After 40/41 boxes T O’Callaghan (FF) leads Bridget Ginnity (GP) for the 7th seat by 303 seats. With 994 votes, he needs about 450 more votes to reach the projected quota.
13:57 – Killaloe MD with 19/33 boxes tallied
Joe Cooney (FG) – 1482
Pat Hayes (FF) – 1098
Pat Burke (FG) – 620
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 605
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 547
Matt Moroney (II) – 424
Fiona Levie (SD) – 310
Martina Cleary (SF) – 203
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 194
13:52 – Election day a massive occasion for the political anoraks. Some snaps from the count centre by Joe Buckley.
13:49 – Estimated quota in Ennis MD is 1,417 and Shannon MD 1,151.
13:47 -Tuamgraney tally:
Pat Burke (FG) – 29
Martina Cleary (SF) – 6
Joe Cooney (FG) – 122
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 39
Pat Hayes (FF) – 37
Fiona Levie (SD) – 30
Matt Moroney (II) – 22
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 29
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 0
13:45 – Ballinruan tally:
Pat Burke (FG) – 11
Martina Cleary (SF) – 10
Joe Cooney (FG) – 17
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 3
Pat Hayes (FF) – 48
Fiona Levie (SD) – 1
Matt Moroney (II) – 3
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 1
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 13
13:43 – Another box from Tulla
Pat Burke (FG) – 18
Martina Cleary (SF) – 14
Joe Cooney (FG) – 72
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 14
Pat Hayes (FF) – 109
Fiona Levie (SD) – 16
Matt Moroney (II) – 19
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 2
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 36
13:41 – Two boxes from Killaloe:
Pat Burke (FG) – 10/11
Martina Cleary (SF) – 6/10
Joe Cooney (FG) – 14/15
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 8/7
Pat Hayes (FF) – 3/2
Fiona Levie (SD) – 21/13
Matt Moroney (II) – 32/44
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 250/204
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 1/2
13:37 – Tally from Ogonnelloe:
Pat Burke (FG) – 35
Martina Cleary (SF) – 6
Joe Cooney (FG) – 171
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 26
Pat Hayes (FF) – 28
Fiona Levie (SD) – 32
Matt Moroney (II) – 26
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 60
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 4
13:19 – Tulla tally:
Pat Burke (FG) – 19
Martina Cleary (SF) – 17
Joe Cooney (FG) – 159
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 8
Pat Hayes (FF) – 68
Fiona Levie (SD) – 7
Matt Moroney (II) – 20
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 3
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 43
13:17 – Tallies from one box in Scariff:
Pat Burke (FG) – 59
Martina Cleary (SF) – 12
Joe Cooney (FG) – 106
Audrey Flynn (GP) – 10
Pat Hayes (FF) – 56
Fiona Levie (SD) – 28
Matt Moroney (II) – 9
Tony O’Brien (FF) – 13
Alan O’Callaghan (FF) – 1
13:13 – Boxes have been opened for the Killaloe MD. We’ll give updates as we get them.
13:07 – “A good election performed in a good atmosphere and lots of good debate,” says Denis Vaughan (LAB) as he awaits the opening of the Ennistymon LEA boxes.
13:03 – Shannon MD Tally complete:
David Griffin (FF) – 1413
John Crowe (FG) – 1206
Rachel Hartigan (FF) – 1136
Pat O’Gorman (FF) – 1120
Donna McGettigan (SF) – 1020
PJ Ryan (IND) – 954
Tony Mulcahy (FG) – 928
Val Gillane (FG) – 600
Michael Begley (IND) – 521
Keith McNamara (IND) – 508
James Ryan (SF) – 383
John Haugh (AON) – 238
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) – 175
Pat Barry (IND) – 121
Conor O’Brien (IND) – 34
12:56 – Nicholas Rynne of Clare GAA TV who has canvassed with Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) is pleased that she has received a very “solid” vote.
12:46 – Bridget Ginnity (GP) tells The Clare Echo she is very happy with her showing. Tallies indicate she is just shy of 700 first preference votes.
12:35 – Ennis MD tally for 40/41 boxes, all except the postal votes.
Pat Daly (FF) – 1748
Mary Howard (FG) – 1332
Paul Murphy (FG) – 1309
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – 1159
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – 1154
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – 1143
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – 994
Bridget Ginnity (GP) – 691
Hilary Tonge (SD) – 572
Seamus Ryan (LAB) – 412
Amanda Major (IND) – 376
Ruairí Keenan (IND) – 353
Jacek Kazmierz Kwazy (IND) – 92
12:15 -Worry within Cllr Michael Begley’s (IND) camp based on the tallies.
12:12 – Patrick Keane (FF) says based on the initial tallies first-time candidate David Griffin (FF) is going to be elected in the Shannon MD.
11:52 – There’s a confidence among Fianna Fáil that they can elect four councillors to the Ennis MD.
11:46 – Ennis MD tally of 28/40 boxes
Pat Daly (FF) – 1113
Paul Murphy (FG) – 836
Mary Howard (FG) – 815
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – 792
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – 742
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – 701
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – 628
Bridget Ginnity (GP) – 410
Hilary Tonge (SD) – 366
Seamus Ryan (LAB) – 254
Amanda Major (IND) – 251
Ruairí Keenan (IND) – 224
Jacek Kazmierz Kwazy (IND) – 54
11:33 – Shannon MD tally (15/36 boxes)
David Griffin (FF) – 883
Donna McGettigan (SF) – 542
Rachel Hartigan (FF) – 465
Tony Mulcahy (FG) – 426
Pat O’Gorman (FF) – 422
John Crowe (FG) – 380
PJ Ryan (IND) – 315
James Ryan (SF) – 256
Keith McNamara (IND) – 242
Michael Begley (IND) – 153
Val Gillane (FG) – 134
John Haugh (AON) – 95
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) – 76
Pat Barry (IND) – 53
Conor O’Brien (IND) – 16
11:11 – Tallies from an Ennis CBS box:
Mary Howard (FG) – 47
Pat Daly (FF) – 42
Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – 25
Ruairí Keenan (IND) – 25
Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – 21
Bridget Ginnity (GP) – 21
Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – 19
Hilary Tonge (SD) – 18
Paul Murphy (FG) – 17
Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – 15
Seamus Ryan (LAB) – 11
Amanda Major (IND) – 4
Jacek Kamierz Kwasny – 0
10:55 – Keith McNamara (IND) satisfied with his initial showing. He’s hopeful an early election for either Tony Mulcahy (FG) or Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) will aid his cause.
10:54 – “Shur the cows haven’t been milked yet,” explains long-serving Fine Gael official Sean Chambers (FG) on the absence of pundit from The Electoral Chair, Joe Melody (FG) at the count centre.
10:50 -Tallies of the top five from one Parteen box:
Val Gillane (FG) – 129
Rachel Hartigan (FF) – 111
Michael Begley (IND) – 46
James Ryan (SF) – 33
Fursa Cavanagh (GP) – 10
10:38 – Another Parteen box has Rachel Hartigan (FF) as the predominant first choice. She is also pulling a lot of votes in Shannon Banks.
10:33 – Second box for Parteen is dominated by Rachel Hartigan (FF), Val Gillane (FG) & Cllr Michael Begley (FG). “They’re voting local observes,” one tally man.
10:11 -Initial tallies show Val Gillane (FG) is taking votes from sitting Cllr Michael Begley (IND).
10:03 – No boxes opened yet in Killaloe MD or Kilrush LEA, tally system had been running a test! Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) says he “got a fright” upon seeing initial tally.
09:54 – Within St Conaire’s, the leaders appear to be Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) and Tony Mulcahy (FG).
09:52 – First time candidate, David Griffin (FF) as per one box could record an impressive vote out of Newmarket-on-Fergus.
09:47 – From the tallies for Ireland South in Co Clare, Michael McNamara (IND) and Eddie Punch (II) among those polling well.
09:46 – From an Ennis Educate Together box, Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) is the clear winner.
09:45 – One Ennis CBS box has Cllr Mary Howard (FG) with the most votes, followed closely by Cllr Pat Daly (FF).
09:39 – Some more of the candidates have arrived. Seamus Ryan (LAB) and Ruairí Keenan (IND) are in to soak up the atmosphere.
09:30 – So far in the Ennistymon LEA with 3.4% of boxes opened:
Fianna Fáil (22.2%)
Fine Gael (22.2%)
Green Party (11.1%
Independent (11.1%
Irish People (11.1%)
Labour(11.1%)
Sinn Féin (11.1%)
09:27 – Early party totals in the Ennis MD with just 2.5 percent of the boxes counted.
Fianna Fáil (30.8%)
Independents (23.1%)
Fine Gael (15.4%)
Green Party (7.7%)
Labour (7.7%)
Sinn Féin (7.7%)
Soc Dem (7.7%)
09:15 – Votes being sorted as we continue to get information on the tallies.
09:09 – Two more of Sinn Féin’s candidates are now here, Martina Cleary (SF) and Conor O’Sullivan (SF).
09:07 – James Ryan (SF) has now landed.
09:06 – Cllr Michael Begley (IND) is another of the early arrivals here in Ennis.
09:03 – Some candidates have already landed at the count centre including Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF), Keith McNamara (IND) and Amanda Major (IND).
08:56 – Tally people now arriving into the count centre as we prepare to open boxes.
08:45 – Our election live-blog is brought to you in association with Blossoms on the Go. We’ll be on the go across two days for a very busy two days.
08:43 – Good morning and welcome to Treacy’s West County Hotel in Ennis. We’ll be keeping you posted across the two days as the race to elect twenty eight councillors in Clare kicks off.
