'I wouldn't have won' without votes from eliminated SF candidates - McMonagle

Gerry McMonagle has credited fellow eliminated Sinn Féin election candidates for his re-election. 

McMonagle received a transfer from Sandra Haughey of 503 votes which brought him comfortably over the 1,629 quota. 

Speaking to Donegal Live reporter, Mary McFadden, after his re-election was confirmed by the returning officer, he said he "wouldn't have won" without the votes from his fellow candidates. 

He said, "I'm elated, honestly, [sic] it was a massive transfer of votes but it was the party, the strategy we had and the candidates we had that got the votes and then was able to transfer, so it shows the discipline of the candidates and the hard work and team we have. 

"I'd like to thank all these guys and ladies wo helped all the three candidates Ulick, Sandra and myself and unfortunately I was the only one elected today, but I wouldn't have been elected without the votes from Ulick and Sandra, and that transfer from Sandra was unreal. 

"I'd say to every voter and anyone who voted for me, thank you very very much, this vote will not go unused. I will raise the concerns that you raised with me on the doorsteps and take them to Donegal County Council and where we can will raise them nationally as well.

"This is a vote for everybody in Letterkenny, I've been councillor for 20 years and I'm delighted to be able to continue and work for the people of Letterkenny for the next five years and I'll do that to the best of my ability." 

McMonagle spoke to his Australia-based daughter, Dearbhaile, immediately following news of his re-election. 

He was also embraced by eliminated Independent candidate, Thoiba Ahmed, as well as delighted family members and supporters.