Local Labour Councillor declares support for Joan Burton

Councillor William Patton says he’s on Team Burton in the battle for the leadership of the Labour Party.

Cllr Patton is one of just two labour councillors returned in the Carlow local elections – the party has just two elected to Kilkenny County Council as well.

There will be a contest to replace Eamon Gilmore as party leader after Junior Minister Alex White declared his interest yesterday, with nominations closing next Tuesday.

Cllr patton says the labour party needs a mixture of experience, youth and ability.