Fine Gael in Mayo last night selected Mr John Flannery to represent the party in the Swinford electoral area in next June's local elections.
The Charlestown councillor appeared at Galway District Court last Wednesday to answer charges arising from comments he is alleged to have made about travellers at a meeting of the Western Health Board last May. The case was adjourned by Judge John Garavan until January 13th.
Mr Flannery was proposed by Charlestown businessman Mr Paddy Colleran, who said the councillor had served the people of the area with distinction since 1979 and they were anxious to retain his services.
No direct mention was made at any stage of the controversy which has surrounded the former chairman of Mayo County Council in recent months.