Fianna Fáil is gearing up for its selection convention to choose general election candidates for the Kerry constituency. The deadline to nominate candidates has passed, and the convention is set to take place on August 15th.
The National Constituencies Committee has recommended that only one candidate be selected at the convention, with Education Minister Norma Foley expected to be the chosen candidate. However, two county councillors have expressed their intention to challenge this decision.
Cllr Michael Cahill, Cathaoirleach of the Kenmare MD, who had a strong showing in the recent local elections, has publicly stated his desire to be added to the ticket. Additionally, Mayor of Tralee Cllr Mikey Sheehy, Cllr Niall Kelleher, and Senator Mark Daly have all received nominations for selection.
Despite some candidates withdrawing their names, Cllr Cahill and Cllr Sheehy remain committed to contesting the convention. Cllr Cahill believes that the number of candidates should be decided at the local level and that multiple candidates should be confirmed to ensure a strong presence on the doorstep during canvassing.
Cllr Sheehy, who topped the polls in the local elections, sees his recent success as a significant asset in maximizing the party’s vote in the upcoming general election. With the convention approaching, the competition for the candidacy in Kerry is heating up.
As the convention date nears, the political landscape in Kerry is becoming more dynamic with the presence of multiple candidates vying for the opportunity to represent Fianna Fáil in the general election. The final decision will ultimately rest in the hands of the convention attendees, who will have the crucial task of selecting the candidate best positioned to secure victory for the party in the Kerry constituency.