Newly-elected Mayo Fine Gael Deputy Michelle Mulherin will escape disciplinary action for dissenting from official government policy in relation to the crisis in Libya, The Connaught Telegraph can reveal.
What was fascinating about the decision of Fine Gael party in Ballina to select John O'Hara as Deputy Michelle Mulherin's replacement on Mayo County Council was the victory for rural over urban politics. There can be little doubt O'Hara and his supporters identified an opportunity when
Taoiseach Enda Kenny has spoken of his plans to rebuild Ireland's confidence and credibility as well as restoring trust in the political system. In his first day of Dáil business since being appointed to lead the new government, the Castlebar TD gave an assurance that the programme for national recovery is based on 'a realistic and honest assessment of the crisis facing the country'.
This newspaper got a bit of stick for highlighting the fact Fine Gael-led Mayo County Council agreed to call a special meeting on March 21 to ensure Deputy Michelle Mulherin's replacement on the authority has a vote in the forthcoming Senate elections. No problem with taking the criticism, but the point needs to be made that it is very unusual for the council to convene special
Fears of a deep split within the Fine Gael party in Mayo have been allayed, much to the relief of senior officials of the organisation. The overlooking of loyal Deputy Michael Ring in the appointment of the new government cabinet threatened to lead to a fierce internal row, The Connaught Telegraph can reveal.
Representatives acting on behalf of the Westport TD are reported to have held candid talks in Dublin with influential figures close to Taoiseach Enda Kenny in an effort to diffuse the situation.