Three TDs were elected for the constituency of Laois over the weekend and one of them will head to the Dail for the first time ever.
Willie Aird, as he has done all his life at Council level, topped the poll for Fine Gael.
He was elected on Saturday evening ahead of Sean Fleming (Fianna Fail) and Brian Stanley (Independent).
Speaking afterwards, Aird thanked the people of Laois for all of their support.
He said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed and very thankful for the people of Laois for coming out and putting there trust in me, because sometimes its not easy I am a first time candidate.
“Even though i have a good bit of experience on the council, but like you’re up against it.
“It’s difficult out there, canvasing like and i was up against a very strong opposition.
“I was canvasing against a Minister, I was canvasing against a Dail Deputy that had won two or three elections and that is very difficult.
“I was hoping I could take a seat, but to come on my first time and top the poll like its a dream come true and I am absolutely delighted.
“I am absolutely delighted and I am honoured to be here. This is something I have dreamed of for a long long time.”
1927 was the last time that Laois elected a Portlaoise TD – and that man was Willie Aird’s grandfather, also named William.
Willie said: “Last time we had a person that was born and raised in the town of Portlaoise, it was my Grandfather in 1927.
“It’s very funny because I didn’t realise until a person rang me this morning to say that my grandfather was a first time candidate who topped the poll and here I am doing the same.”
“Nearly 100 years later. You couldn’t write it, could you.”
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