SF's Aoife Masterson 'very happy' with the tally figures

AN upbeat Aoife Masterson says she is "very happy with the general election tallies in Offaly.

Speaking as the first count was taking place in the election centre in Birr on Saturday afternoon, the Sinn Fein candidate said she hoped she would be elected in the final outcome over the course of the weekend.

The Tullamore based candidate said the will of the people of Offaly for real change was one of the reasons she attracted a high number of first preferences in virtually every area of the county.

"There is a real opportunity for generational change now in Offaly," stressed Ms Masterson.

She added: "I think the people of Offaly want strong representation in Dail Eireann."

During the course of the campaign, Ms Masterson said she had "really engaged with people on their doorsteps, listened to their concerns and gave them policy based answers."

She said the election has been a fantastic result for Sinn Fein right around the country and hit out at those who had written the party off.

Asked about the formation of a new Government Ms Masterson said Sinn Fein was willing to talk to everyone but their preference was to lead a Government which did not include Fianna Fail or Fine Gael.