Maura Hopkins selected as Fine Gael byelection candidate

Cllr Maura Hopkins was last night selected as the Fine Gael candidate for the Roscommon-South Leitrim byelection.

A date for the election to replace former Independent TD Luke Ming Flanagan, who was elected to the European Parliament earlier this year, has not been set yet but it expected to take place around the time of the budget in October.

Ms Hopkins (30) is based in Ballaghaderreen, Co Roscommon, and currently works as a senior occupational therapist. She was selected at a convention held in the Percy French Hotel in Strokestown, which was attended by Taoiseach Enda Kenny.

Mr Kenny said Ms Hopkins was “an excellent candidate” for Fine Gael who has “worked hard for her community, both as a councillor and community activist”.

"She has been a diligent and energetic representative on Roscommon County Council, " he added.