Inaugural Island Community Council Election on Árainn Mhór Today

Mickey Dubh McHugh casting the first ever vote
for Arainn Mhor Island's new Community Council

The first ever election for Arainn Mhor Island's community council is being held today from 9.00am to 7.00pm in Ionad Chrois Bhealaigh (Factory Hall). Todays election will see 16 people nominated thus making a community council of 16 members.

The main aims of the island council are;

•  the involvement of all the people of Árainn Mhór Island in the promotion of the social, educational, cultural and economic welfare of the whole community.
• to represent each and every member of the community and the community as a whole in dealing with local government and statutory bodies to seek where considered necessary, technical support, financial and other assistance in the promotion of the common good and to advise and assist where possible the local authority in the exercise of its duties in the locality.
• to act as an umbrella body to aid and assist all island organisations when needed, promoting and enhancing our image as a whole beyond our shores. 

The election will be overseen by Muintir na Tire's Acting National Director of Services, James O'Neill. Following the election the ballot box will be handed to Mr O'Neill and he will be responsible for counting the votes. He will then announce the results of the election after the steering group have contacted the elected and received confirmation that the elected will serve on the council for the following three years. 

TV3 are following the story of how and why a community council is needed on the island of Árainn Mhór.  The 3-week programme will be aired Friday 9th February 2015 on TV3.