I'm tired, I'm shocked, I'm excited - James Gilmartin goes through the emotions
Gilmartin hopes to tackle issues surrounding farming, housing and childcare in Leitrim
It was a landslide in the finish, a result of such magnitude that shocked experienced pollsters who did not see it coming.
James Gilmartin, a first time Independent candidate in the Manorhamilton LEA, smashed the ceiling on the quota to sweep to victory on the first count much to the delight of his large party of supporters and family members.
“I've had the day to process it. It's very humbling to have that kind of a vote, it's fortifying,” he said in the minutes after his historic election.
“I'm tired, I'm shocked, I'm excited, all the variables that go with that but I have to say it's been a thoroughly enjoyable day,” he added.
“Initially I ran on the basis of farming and environmental issues but on the doorsteps there's a lot of talk about housing so that's something we really need to tackle. Childcare is another thing where, as much as we can in the council, help provide the situation where private childcare can survive."
James called on the new council to engage in reasoned debate and balance.
“We need to have unity. It's not something you can measure but there's a tension out there at the moment, you see a lot of stuff online that not's really reflective of the silent majority and we need to look after that.
“At the end of the day, we're the people our kids take example from and if we're not reasoned and balanced we're only adding fuel to the fire,” he stated.
Asked what it means to him to take a seat on Leitrim County Council in such fashion with his family and friends there with him, James replied, “It means the world. My wife Joanne has been by my side the whole way through.
“It wasn't an easy decision for me to run because it meant I was away a lot of the last five months and a lot of the weight fell to her and my mother and grandparents and in-laws and I'd really like to thank them and Francie (Boylan) my campaign manager.
“It's very proud day for me with my mum and dad. They're great people. I suppose we're all proud of our parents but I like to think if I could be half the type of people my mother and father are I'll be ok in life,” he concluded.