Michael Boyle takes up seat after co-option to Donegal County Council

Bruckless native Michael Boyle (FG) has been co-opted to Donegal Council, filling the seat vacated as a result of the appointment of his brother Manus to Seanad Éireann.

READ NEXT: Anna Gallagher emerges victorious in Donegal Town Mayor election

The formal co-option took place at a meeting of Donegal County Council in Lifford on Monday, March 31. This followed a Fine Gael party selection process the previous Friday, where Cllr Boyle finished ahead of former councillor Barry Sweeny from Ballyshannon.

At the scheduled council meeting, Cllr Martin Harley (FG) formally proposed that Michael Boyle take on the role of councillor at Donegal Council. Cllr Harley also welcomed Senator Manus Boyle to the chamber, as well as his father, former councillor John Boyle.

This was seconded by party colleague Jimmy Kavanagh (FG).

“I also welcome Manus back to his happy haunting ground here in Donegal County Council, and John as well. 

“This is another great day for the Boyle family in Donegal and I just want to welcome Michael here and formally second the proposal.”

Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Cllr Niamh Kennedy (Ind) welcomed Cllr Boyle to the council. 

“It is a great day for you, enjoy the celebrations,” she said.

Cllr Kennedy congratulated Senator Boyle on his new role, and she wished the family well.

This was echoed by sitting councillors from across the political spectrum as they welcomed Cllr Boyle and acknowledged the work of his brother Manus during his time on the council.

Following the party’s selection of Michael Boyle for co-option the previous Friday, his proud older brother Senator Manus Boyle said: “I am delighted to share the great news that my brother, Micheal, has won the vote at tonight’s convention and will now take up the position of Councillor, filling the seat left vacant by my elevation to the Seanad. 

“This is a proud day for me and the entire Boyle family. Our father, John, who dedicated many years as a county councillor and laid the foundations for our work, is bursting with pride and happiness.

“I also want to acknowledge Barry Sweeny, a valued member of Fine Gael, who put up a strong fight for the position. He is a great friend of the Boyle family, and I wish him every success in the future.

“Now, as we enter this new chapter, I am confident that with Micheal serving at county council level and me in the Seanad, we can work together to deliver great things for County Donegal.”