Former councillor’s son Manus Boyle seeking to get name on Donegal Fine Gael ballot sheet 

Manus Boyle, the son of a Fine Gael (FG) county councillor and County Council Chairperson John Boyle, is to seek a nomination to run for the party in this summer’s county council elections, expected to take place in early June.

The local FG selection convention takes place at the Central Hotel, Donegal Town, on Friday January 19.

Outgoing FG councillor in the Donegal Municipal District, Barry Sweeny is also expected to get the nod from the Ballyshannon and Bundoran FG branches. 

The only other speculation at this juncture is the possibility of Jason Harley from Frosses, a nephew of current DCC Cathaoirleach, Martin Harley, also potentially seeking to become a third candidate to run for Fine Gael in the south of the county. 

Last time out in 2019 Fine Gael ran three candidates in the Donegal MD - Barry Sweeny, John Boyle and John McNulty (current Donegal LGFA manager), the latter narrowly failing to take the last seat on the six seat Donegal MD.

In the end, Cllr Barry Sweeny was the only successful Fine Gael candidate in the Donegal MD, which stretches from Bundoran to Glencolmcille. 

Manus Boyle, Operations Manager with Killybegs Stevedoring Ltd, is a son of former councillor John Boyle, who served as a local councillor until he was defeated in 2014, having also served a term as County Cathaoirleach (then Mayor).

John Boyle also was selected to run in the 2019 local elections.

In a statement the local Bruckless, Dunkineely and Killybegs branch of the party said: 

“We are thrilled to announce Manus Boyle as our candidate for the Fine Gael local selection convention on January 19, 2024. 

“A steadfast advocate for Coastal and Island communities, Manus's deep ties to the fishing industry drive his passion for its revitalization. 

“With a history of championing the industry's concerns to government officials, he has forged meaningful relationships to instigate positive change. 

“Manus is also devoted to healthcare, elderly care, education and community housing. With a great knowledge of agriculture he is passionate in fighting for better futures for all farmers. 

“He continuously assisted his father, former Co Councillor John Boyle in all aspects of community welfare and is no stranger to Council matters. 

“Known by locals for his instant accessibility by phone and his commitment to solve local issues, we believe Manus Boyle is poised to make a significant impact in Donegal South West and for the Coastal and Island communities around Ireland. 

“We eagerly anticipate the convention and are optimistic about his candidacy in the upcoming local elections.”