Fine Gael now in the running for second Clare seat
IN less than a week, Fine Gael has transformed its position from fighting to hold its single seat in the Clare constituency to being in the running to elect a second TD from the county in the upcoming General Election.
That’s the view of Leonora Carey, the party’s candidate in the Ennis area, who says that the addition of Dr Tom Nolan and Cllr Joe Cooney as her running mates in West and East Clare has transformed Fine Gael’s prospects of electoral success.
“When I was selected as a candidate at the Clare Fine Gael election convention in early September, the expectation was the the national executive would add at least one running mate to maximise the party’s share of the vote.
“Contrary to some misguided commentary, that remained the position and I am glad that National Director of Elections Olwyn Enright and her team took the time to focus on selecting the candidates who have the best chance of delivering a strong voice for Clare at national level,” Ms Carey declared.
“Not only is Dr Tom Nolan well known throughout West Clare as a caring and compassionate doctor but he has also distinguished himself as a champion for social justice both in his role as a member of Kilkee Town Commissioners and as a committed advocate for environmental responsibility.
“From my own experience as a healthcare professional, I am aware of Dr Nolan’s efforts to improve both the acute care and primary health services in the county and I believe we can work together to bring about significant changes to the delivery of healthcare not only in Clare but throughout the MidWest,” she said.
“Cllr Joe Cooney is a seasoned politician whose service to the community is reflected in the impressive vote he has consistently delivered in successive local elections. He has supported and canvassed with my father and brother in their General Election campaigns and I look forward to working with him to deliver a strong Fine Gael performance in the upcoming election.
“I believe Cllr Cooney will bring a fresh impetus to the campaign and that his contribution will energise party members in their efforts to deliver a second seat for the party in Clare,” she added.
“Apart from the broader geographical spread the party has gained from the addition of Dr Nolan and Cllr Cooney to the team, it has also strengthened our political base. Our values and priorities are aligned, particularly in the areas of health, housing, rural development, education and employment.
“The issues facing people in Clare and the Mid-West require a new approach to how politicians can make a real difference to the lives of ordinary people. Over the coming weeks, Dr Nolan, Cllr Cooney and myself will be engaging with the Clare electorate to give us the opportunity to make that difference.
“The past week has been a good one for Fine Gael but also, and more importantly, for the people of Clare,” Ms Carey added.
PHOTO CAPTION: Cllr Joe Cooney, Leonora Carey, Minister of State Martin Heydon and Dr Tom Nolan canvassing at Ennis Mart on Monday.
