Expressions of interest sought to fill the late Anthony Waldron's council seat

Roscommon County Council has set a deadline of May 15th for expressions of interest to fill the council seat left vacant following the passing of Independent Councillor Anthony Waldron.

The local authority is now inviting expressions of interest from what it describes as eligible individuals to fill the seat. Cllr Waldron passed away suddenly in early February.

Among the candidates who have already expressed an interest in the position are residents of Ballintubber where the late councillor lived.

Community activist Gail Murray is backed by Ballintubber Development Association while the family of the late Cllr Waldron is supporting Michael Holland.

Monksland community activist Ernie Draper has also expressed an interest in the vacant Roscommon Municipal District seat.

All valid nominations will be put forward for a vote of the elected members and a simple majority vote will decide who fills the seat.  It is understood that this vote will take place at the May monthly meeting of the council.

In its public notice, the council says no evidence of an organisational structure or group was submitted by the late Cllr Waldron.

Individuals interested in being considered for co-option are invited to submit their expressions of interest by 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 15th. Nominees may propose themselves or can be proposed by a third party.

To be considered, nominees must meet the same criteria required of candidates in local elections, provide written consent for the nomination and submit a form of photographic identification.

Those interested can request a nomination form from the local authority and a completed form can be submitted by post, in person or email.

Current legislation does not limit nominations to the Roscommon/Ballintubber Municipal District, from which Councillor Waldron was elected.