CORK North Central could see another Fine Gael candidate – or possibly two — added to the ticket in the coming days alongside sitting TD Dara Murphy.
The Minister for European Affairs launched his campaign last night amid speculation from party members that the announcement of a female candidate from the Bishopstown end of the constituency to run alongside him was imminent. It is thought to be related to the party’s obligations towards gender balance.
Dara Murphy TD with Andrea O;’Callaghan, Sandra O’Leary, and Vivienne O’Callaghan as he launched his campaign at the Kingsley Hotel
Picture: Eddie O’Hare
There was further speculation that Senator Colm Burke, who lost out to Minister Murphy in the party’s selection convention last year by just 188 votes to 172, could also be added to the ticket. Running three candidates in the constituency would be an extraordinary turnaround for the party that seemed certain to run only its sitting TD until this week. Minister Murphy acknowledged that another candidate could be added.
“There are a number of constituencies where the ticket is not complete. We have had very significant ambition up and down the country from people who want to run for Fine Gael. That’s a very healthy thing. I look forward to working with whoever is on the ticket.” He admitted it could either end up as a “help or a hindrance” to his candidacy.
Senator Burke said he was aware that there was speculation.
“The speculation is that there may be one or even more candidates added. The recommendation will come from the Taoiseach and I respect his decision.”