Time is running out in Fianna Fáil’s desperate quest to find a candidate to replace outgoing MEP Sean Ó Neachtáin to stand in the North West in the European Elections.
With less than four weeks before polling day on June 5, the longer the party delays (or is unable to find ) a candidate , the more likely that last seat will go to Labour or Libertas.
Party HQ does appear to have narrowed down its options and is focusing on trying to convince the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Éamon Ó Cuív or Galway East TD Michael Kitt to run. Minister Ó Cuív would appear to be the most likely choice given his national profile. In the immediate aftermath of Ó Neachtáin’s announcement, a number of names were mentioned including former Galway hurling hero Joe Connolly and businessman Pádraig Ó Céidigh. It has also emerged though that Fianna Fáil even considered TV presenter Síle Seoige.
“It just seems that FF will do anything to get a well-known name and hope for the best,” said one party insider. “It really shows the state we are in as we try to look for a candidate.”
It is not known when FF will finally announce its North West candidate, but one must come soon, as it is likely to be either Dep Kitt or Minister Ó Cuív.
