Draper unsuccessful in Roscommon County Council co-option bid

Michael Holland Snr has been unanimously co-opted onto Roscommon County Council at a special meeting of the local authority this afternoon.

The Ballintubber native's election marked disappointment for Monksland resident Ernie Draper who was one of three candidates for the seat left vacant due to the passing of Anthony Waldron in February.

Draper received no Council support following the casting of votes, Holland being successfully co-opted onto the local authority with 13 of the 17 councillors supporting him.

Speaking last week, Draper said that having "built a life" in Monksland for his wife Jessica and two children he wanted to repay the support received from the local community if he was elected.

Four candidates had put their names forward for the vacant seat, Draper, Holland Snr, Gail Murray and Mairead Kenny, Kenny withdrawing her name from the co-option ballot late last week.