Independent candidate Diarmuid McConville calls out Minister Roderic O'Gorman
McConville is a first time candidate for the Manorhamilton LEA
Tally results are in for the three electoral areas, with Paddy O'Rourke (FF) securing the most first preferences at 1,435 in Ballinamore, Sean McGowan (FF) at 792 in Carrick-on-Shannon and first-time candidate James Gilmartin (IND) at 1,328 first in Manorhamilton.
As counting continues in the Landmark Hotel, Carrick-on-Shannon, candidates have gathered and are waiting intently to hear more.
Diarmuid McConville, first-time candidate for Manorhamilton LEA received 35 first preferences, tallying at 1% of the total vote. Speaking in Irish and covering his face with a net, McConville said: "I am very happy to be here. I am a brave man and I think that is important."
McConville, who has previously been in the public eye for his attendance at Covid related protests in Sligo dressed as the "Straw Man," isn't expecting to get elected. "It doesn't look like I will get elected as it stands."
Known for his strong views on the EU, immigration and technology, McConville continued the interview in Irish and said: "There are 1.5 million migrants in the country. We should send them home or somewhere safe in a friendly, peaceful and Christian way."
McConville gave his sentiments on Roderic O'Gorman's position as Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth. "I'll be asking the county council to ban Roderic O'Gorman. He has done a bad job and Leitrim County Council should ask the Government to have him resign."
When asked about what he thought of the vast amount of people who disagree with him, McConville said: "A lot of people do agree with me. Bad work is being done by mainstream media. I am asking the questions."