Taoiseach advised to call an early election

TAOISEACH Enda Kenny has been advised by his party’s councillors in Mayo to call an early general election, The Connaught Telegraph has learned.

The Fine Gael leader sought the advice of the public representatives at a private meeting held at Lough Lannagh Holiday Village in Castlebar.

Six of the organisation’s 10-strong lobby on the council were in attendance at the session and only one was opposed to the idea of calling a snap election after the budget in October.

Those in attendance were Cyril Burke, John Cribbin, Gerry Coyle, Neil Cruise, Henry Kenny and Jarlath Munnelly. Apologies were tendered by Tom Connolly, Patsy O’Brien, John O’Hara and Tereasa McGuire   

When Deputy Kenny asked each members for their views on the general election date, he was reportedly ‘surprised’ by the number of favour of a pre-Christmas campaign.

The fact he is seeking out such opinions represents a clear signal he has yet to make up his mind on the matter.

The next Irish general election must take place no later than April 3, 2016.