Across six municipal districts, there is a list of 73 contenders battling for 30 spots at the Mayo County Council. Fianna Fáil, alongside a cluster of Independents, has dominated the council’s sphere since 2019 by maintaining a marginal majority. The primary concern amongst electorates, as expressed by the candidates, alternates between the exorbitant rent rates especially in metropolitan areas; challenges in securing planning approvals in countryside regions; and the circumstance of grown-ups residing with their parents due to the scarcity of reasonably priced options. Additionally, an outward migration from Mayo and difficulties in procuring health resources that include GP services, dental care, household assistance, and specialised hospital appointments also ruffle the voters. Sinn Féin, stimulated by Rose Conway-Walsh’s accomplishment in the 2020 general electoral race in which she was shortlisted during the inaugural count, intends to augment its presence and is endorsing four extra candidates compared to 2019. With no significant ideological transformations anticipated, it appears plausible that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael, who are presenting 13 and 15 candidates respectively, along with a cohort of Independents, may regain control of the forthcoming council. The council assembly will inevitably be graced by a minimum of two fresh members taking over from Cllr Seamus Weir (Independent) in Ballina, and Cllr John Cribbin (Fine Gael) in Claremorris, who have both withdrawn. The available seats across the six municipal regions are as follows: Ballina – 6, Belmullet – 3, Castlebar – 7, Claremorris – 6, Swinford – 4, and Westport – 4.
